1973 BMW R 50/5

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1973 BMW R 50/5 was part of BMW’s /5 series, introduced in 1970 to modernize the brand’s motorcycle lineup. Built in Berlin-Spandau, the R 50/5 featured a 498cc air-cooled, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine—commonly known as a “boxer” engine—producing around 32 horsepower. It was paired with a four-speed transmission and shaft drive, a hallmark of BMW engineering that offered smooth and low-maintenance performance.

The /5 series marked a significant shift for BMW, incorporating electric starters (though kick-start remained), telescopic front forks, and a more compact, sportier design compared to earlier models. The R 50/5 was the smallest displacement model in the lineup, which also included the R 60/5 and R 75/5. Despite its smaller engine, the R 50/5 was praised for its reliability, balance, and touring capability.

With its classic styling, chrome accents, and distinctive “toaster” tank (available on some models), the R 50/5 has become a beloved vintage motorcycle. As Cycle World (July 1973) reported, “BeeEms don’t often give way to major change… they are a motorcycle smelling strongly of tradition.” And this classic 1973 BMW R 50/5 is highly original and has received recent maintenance.

Highlights

• 498cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, horizontally opposed twin engine

• Four-speed manual transmission

• Shaft drive

• Battery and coil ignition system

• Bosch 12V electrical system

• Electric start with backup kick-start

Features

• Recent maintenance includes:

  • Oil change 10/2024

  • Air Filter 10/2024

  • Fluids checked 10/2024

  • Carburetors adjusted 10/2024

  • New tires and tubes 10/2024

  • New chrome headlight bezel

  • New headlight protector

  • New stopper/floor protector for kick stand

  • Older service and maintenance 2017

Known Imperfections

• Mostly original-older components

• Rip on lower seat edge-near hinge

• Dent in chrome on fuel tank-left side

• Original seat needs new cover and foam

Included

• Original seat

• Original owner’s manual/brochure

• Extra key

• Original Headlight bezel

• New chrome headlight bezel and chrome protective arm

Ownership History

• This 1973 BMW R 50/5 has been with the seller since 2024, after being purchased from the previous owner who had acquired it in 2017.

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the seller of this vehicle. As such, the purchase transaction will be facilitated by Broad Arrow, including vehicle payment, applicable taxes required to be collected by the seller or Broad Arrow, and title/ownership reassignment. Broad Arrow is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Craig Zimmerman Phone: 586.707.5811 email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com