BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Manx Norton 500
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Manx Norton 500 on 80/100. On the road: 83–60. As classics: 93–100. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Photo: Peprovira · CC BY-SA 3.0
Manx Norton 500
80/100 Overall
60 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Manx Norton | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 10 | Manx Norton |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 6 | BMW R90S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 3 | BMW R90S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 2 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Manx Norton |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Manx Norton |
Choose the BMW R90S if…
you want high-speed touring ability, engineering quality and one of BMW's most significant sporting classics.
Choose the Manx Norton if…
you want one of racing's most important motorcycles, with sublime handling, competition pedigree and exceptional desirability.
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.
Manx Norton
The Manx Norton 500 was produced from 1947–1962 and used a 499cc air-cooled DOHC racing single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, handling. 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.
Manx Norton
- Its production span in this library runs from 1947 to 1962.
- The recorded engine description is: 499cc air-cooled DOHC racing single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, handling.
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.
Manx Norton
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Manx Norton 500. 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.
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.
Manx Norton
- 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 Manx Norton
Final result
The verdict
BMW R90S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Manx Norton 500 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R90S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.