1974 BMW R60/6

1974 BMW R60/6

touring70sGermany

A touring motorcycle from 1974, the 1974 BMW R60/6 delivers 40hp from its 599cc OHV flat-twin engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV flat-twin
Displacement
599 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
40 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque
44.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
73.5 × 70.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Bing carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

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

Performance

Top Speed
155 km/h (96 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
195 kg (430 lbs)
Wet Weight
210 kg (463 lbs)
Seat Height
800 mm
Wheelbase
1440 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
17.0 L

History & Story

In 1974, BMW launched the 1974 BMW R60/6 — a touring motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Germany, it combined Germany engineering with touring motorcycle appeal.

Powering the 1974 BMW R60/6 is a 599cc OHV flat-twin producing 40hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Bing carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via shaft final drive to the rear wheel.

Built around a steel double cradle frame, the 1974 BMW R60/6 suspends its 195 kg (430 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1440 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1974 BMW R60/6 achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 17.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for touring motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

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

  • The 1974 BMW R60/6 was produced in BMW's Germany facilities
  • The 1974 BMW R60/6 featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1970s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
5/10

Resources & Parts