BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Honda MT50
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Honda MT50 on 73/100. On the road: 83–62. As classics: 93–83. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Photo: MaartenBorst · CC BY-SA 4.0
Honda MT50
73/100 Overall
62 On the road83 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Honda MT50 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 3 | BMW R90S |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 5 | BMW R90S |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 5 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 8 | BMW R90S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 9 | Honda MT50 |
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 MT50 if…
you want trail-bike looks, simple two-stroke fun and the freedom associated with countless British teenage first bikes.
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 MT50
The Honda MT50 was produced from 1979–1989 and used a 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, reliability. 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 MT50
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, reliability.
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 MT50
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda MT50. Its library score for character 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 MT50
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- 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 MT50
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.