1960 BMW R50

Seller’s Descripiton

If you’re looking for a true piece of vintage European motorcycle history, this 1960 BMW R50 represents one of the most iconic motorcycles from BMW’s post-war era. With its unmistakable boxer-twin engine, shaft-drive system, classic proportions, and beautifully simple German engineering, the R50 remains one of the most recognizable vintage BMW motorcycles ever produced.
Introduced in 1955, the BMW R50 was designed as a smooth, dependable touring motorcycle capable of handling everyday riding as well as longer-distance travel. At its heart is BMW’s legendary 494cc air-cooled OHV horizontally opposed twin-cylinder boxer engine, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and BMW’s traditional shaft-drive system.
The 1960 model year is particularly interesting because it sits at the transition between the original R50 and the introduction of the R50/2 generation. These motorcycles are known for their mechanical simplicity, smooth power delivery, durability, and unmistakable vintage BMW character.
More than six decades later, the R50 remains highly regarded among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors. From its exposed boxer cylinders to its classic BMW tank design and low, elegant stance, this is a motorcycle from an era when machines were built with simplicity, craftsmanship, and longevity in mind.
Why this one stands out:
The BMW R50 isn’t simply an older motorcycle — it represents an important chapter in BMW Motorrad history. Its boxer-twin engine and shaft-drive layout helped establish the mechanical formula BMW would continue developing for generations. The 494cc boxer produces approximately 26 horsepower, prioritizing smoothness, reliability, and comfortable cruising rather than outright speed. Combined with its classic chassis and unmistakable vintage styling, the R50 delivers an old-school riding experience that modern motorcycles simply cannot duplicate.
For a collector, BMW enthusiast, or rider looking for an authentic vintage European motorcycle, a 1960 R50 offers history, character, and timeless design in one machine.

YEAR: 1960
MAKE / MODEL: BMW R50
ENGINE: 494cc Air-Cooled OHV Boxer Twin
CYLINDERS: Horizontally Opposed Twin
POWER: Approximately 26 HP
TRANSMISSION: 4-Speed Manual
FINAL DRIVE: Shaft Drive
STYLE: Classic / Vintage / Touring
ERA: Post-War BMW Motorrad
SALE TYPE: Consignment


SPECS / FEATURES:

Classic 494cc BMW boxer-twin engine
Air-cooled OHV design
Approximately 26 horsepower
4-speed manual transmission
BMW shaft-drive system
Horizontally opposed twin-cylinder layout
Classic post-war BMW styling
Vintage BMW touring design
Smooth, balanced power delivery
Simple mechanical construction
Iconic exposed boxer-cylinder appearance
Built during one of BMW Motorrad’s most recognizable eras
Highly desirable platform among vintage BMW enthusiasts
Excellent collector or enthusiast motorcycle
Timeless German engineering and craftsmanship
Offered on consignment through Motor-Speed LLC
Why the R50 matters:
The R50 helped establish BMW’s reputation for building motorcycles focused on durability, smooth operation, and long-distance capability. Its boxer engine and shaft-drive configuration became defining characteristics of BMW motorcycles and remain closely associated with the brand today.
For riders who appreciate mechanical simplicity and classic European design, the R50 represents a very different era of motorcycling — one centered around craftsmanship, longevity, and the riding experience itself.
CONSIGNMENT NOTICE: This 1960 BMW R50 is being offered on consignment through Motor-Speed LLC.
Please contact us directly for additional details, availability, pictures, or to schedule a viewing.
?? Call or text us directly at (916) 249-4291 for additional information, pictures, or to schedule a viewin