BMW’s “slash 2” series was produced from 1960 to 1969 and is among the most recognizable families of classic motorcycles. The R50/2 was powered by a 494cc air cooled boxer twin producing 26 horsepower at 5,800rpm, paired with a 4 speed transmission and shaft final drive. Top speed was approximately 82 mph.
Key features of the /2 models included BMW’s distinctive six fin valve covers and an enclosed final driveshaft. The chassis was a rigid double loop steel frame with sidecar mounting points. Suspension was handled by the Earles leading link fork at the front and twin shocks at the rear. The Earles design resisted brake dive and offered rigidity whether ridden solo or with a sidecar attached. Braking came from a twin leading shoe front drum and a single leading shoe rear drum.
Between 1960 and 1969, BMW produced just over 15,000 examples of the R50/2 before the series gave way to telescopic fork “US” models in 1967 and eventually the /5 generation in 1969. Today, the R50/2 is regarded as a refined example of BMW’s boxer tradition.
This example is VIN: 934491. The seller has owned the bike for about 15 years and has used it for display purposes only.
The odometer shows 3 kilometers, 1.8 miles. The bike is True Mileage Unknown.
Maintenance:
The seller states that the bike went through a full restoration in the early 2000’s. In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok,
Engine Oil Level: Ok, 3/4 Full
Engine Oil Quality: AGE UNKNOWN
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A, Air cooled
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: UNKNOWN
Headlight Low Beam: UNKNOWN
Passing Light: UNKNOWN
Parking Light: UNKNOWN
Turn Signals: UNKNOWN
Tail Light: UNKNOWN
Brake Light (Front Switch): UNKNOWN
Brake Light (Rear Switch): UNKNOWN
Plate Light: UNKNOWN
Horn: UNKNOWN
Kill Switch: UNKNOWN
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: Drum
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: Drum
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: Pre-2000
Tire Date Code Rear: 22/04
Tire % Remaining Front: 95%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 95%
Tire Press. Front: 32 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 36 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 0.0V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: UNKNOWN
Running Condition: Not attempted
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
**ENGINE TURNS OVER SMOOTHLY**
-Bikes electrics not tested, no battery installed
-Bike uses 6V system
-Fuel tank is dry, from storage
-Engine oil is 3/4 full
-Cosmetic imperfections:
-Rear wheel has excessive oxidation/rust
-Rear exhaust has excessive oxidation
-LH exhaust has mild oxidation
-Small paint chips on LH fender
RECOMMENDED REPAIRS:
-6V Battery
-Engine oil and filter
Modifications:
The bike has been restored, but appears to be in OEM condition without any modifications.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Continental tires which have aged out with date codes of 2204.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this BMW is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Do you have any R50/2 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
