BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Honda CB400N Super Dream
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Honda CB400N Super Dream on 76/100. On the road: 83–78. As classics: 93–73. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Photo: Rainmaker47 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Honda CB400N Super Dream
76/100 Overall
78 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Honda CB400N | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 7 | BMW R90S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 7 | BMW R90S |
Choose the BMW R90S if…
you want high-speed touring ability, engineering quality and one of BMW's most significant sporting classics.
Choose the Honda CB400N if…
you want dependable, comfortable and familiar Honda middleweight transport with excellent parts support and easy ownership.
Background
History
BMW R90S
The BMW R90S was produced from 1973–1976 and used a 898cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda CB400N
The Honda CB400N Super Dream was produced from 1978–1986 and used a 395cc air-cooled four-stroke parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R90S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1976.
- The recorded engine description is: 898cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, reliability.
Honda CB400N
- Its production span in this library runs from 1978 to 1986.
- The recorded engine description is: 395cc air-cooled four-stroke parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are reliability, ownership appeal, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R90S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R90S. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda CB400N
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda CB400N Super Dream. Its library score for reliability is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R90S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda CB400N
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the BMW R90S
Rivals to the Honda CB400N
Final result
The verdict
BMW R90S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. BMW R90S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R90S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.