VS
The 1973 BMW R90S and 1978 BMW R80/7 represent two chapters in BMW's storied history.
The 1973 BMW R90S from Germany was powered by a 898cc OHV flat-twin producing 67hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7 by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1973 BMW R90S from Germany was powered by a 898cc OHV flat-twin producing 67hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1978 BMW R80/7 by contrast offered 798cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 50hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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
| 1973 BMW R90S | 1978 BMW R80/7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 898 cc | 798 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 68.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 200.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 215.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1465 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two BMW machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1973 BMW R90S laid the groundwork with 67hp, while the later 1978 BMW R80/7 pushed output to 50hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1973 BMW R90S holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any BMW collection.
About the 1973 BMW R90S
The 1973 1973 BMW R90S packs a 898cc OHV flat-twin engine with 67hp into a sport bike package from BMW.
Full 1973 BMW R90S Profile →About the 1978 BMW R80/7
A touring motorcycle from 1978, the 1978 BMW R80/7 delivers 50hp from its 798cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1978 BMW R80/7 Profile →