VS
The 1970 BMW R75/5 and 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1970 BMW R75/5 from Germany was powered by a 745cc OHV flat-twin producing 50hp at 6200rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 320.0kg (705 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1970 BMW R75/5 from Germany was powered by a 745cc OHV flat-twin producing 50hp at 6200rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1207cc of OHV V-twin Shovelhead power, delivering 60hp at 5400rpm. Tipping the scales at 320.0kg (705 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1970 BMW R75/5 | 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 745 cc | 1207 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 54.0 Nm | 95.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 200.0 kg | 320.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 216.0 kg | 345.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 690 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1970 BMW R75/5 has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority.
About the 1970 BMW R75/5
BMW released the 1970 BMW R75/5 in 1970 with a 745cc OHV flat-twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive touring motorcycle.
Full 1970 BMW R75/5 Profile →About the 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
The 1966 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead is a 1207cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Harley-Davidson's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead Profile →