The 1965 Honda CB160 from Japan was powered by a 161cc SOHC twin producing 16hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 120.0kg (265 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1969 BMW R60/2, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 594cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 30hp at 5800rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 140km/h (87 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1965 Honda CB160 | 1969 BMW R60/2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 161 cc | 594 cc |
| Power | 16 hp | 30 hp |
| Torque | 12.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 132 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 120.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 133.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 12.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1965 Honda CB160 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1969 BMW R60/2 targets long-distance touring with passenger comfort. On paper, the 1969 BMW R60/2's 30hp trumps the 1965 Honda CB160's 16hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1965 Honda CB160 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1969 BMW R60/2 for long-distance touring with passenger comfort. Parts availability is moderate for the 1965 Honda CB160 and good for the 1969 BMW R60/2 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1965 Honda CB160
A standard motorcycle from 1965, the 1965 Honda CB160 delivers 16hp from its 161cc SOHC twin engine.
Full 1965 Honda CB160 Profile →About the 1969 BMW R60/2
Born in 1969, the 1969 BMW R60/2 is a 594cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 30hp from BMW.
Full 1969 BMW R60/2 Profile →