1973 BMW R90S

1973 BMW R90S

The 1973 1973 BMW R90S packs a 898cc OHV flat-twin engine with 67hp into a sport bike package from BMW.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV flat-twin
Displacement
898 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
67 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque
68.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
90.0 × 70.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Dell'Orto carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
200 km/h (124 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
200 kg (441 lbs)
Wet Weight
215 kg (474 lbs)
Seat Height
810 mm
Wheelbase
1465 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
17.0 L

History & Story

BMW's 1973 BMW R90S arrived in 1973 as a sport bike designed for the discerning rider. Produced in Germany, it quickly earned recognition as a capable sport bike from the 1970s.

The 1973 BMW R90S is motivated by a 898cc OHV flat-twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 67hp at 7000 rpm. Breathing through 2x Dell'Orto carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with shaft final drive.

The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from dual disc front and single disc rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 200 kg (441 lbs) dry, the 1973 BMW R90S offers a manageable riding experience with a 1465 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1973 BMW R90S achieves a claimed top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 17.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 810 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1973 BMW R90S is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of BMW motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

  • Final drive spline wear on shaft-drive models
  • Pushrod tube seal leaks
  • Rocker arm wear
  • Starter motor brushes wear over time

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1973 BMW R90S can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1973 BMW R90S is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from BMW
  • The 1973 BMW R90S is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
9/10

Resources & Parts