Used 1960 BMW R50

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.<br />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.<br />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.<br />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.<br />Why this one stands out:<br />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.<br />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.<br /><br />YEAR: 1960<br />MAKE / MODEL: BMW R50<br />ENGINE: 494cc Air-Cooled OHV Boxer Twin<br />CYLINDERS: Horizontally Opposed Twin<br />POWER: Approximately 26 HP<br />TRANSMISSION: 4-Speed Manual<br />FINAL DRIVE: Shaft Drive<br />STYLE: Classic / Vintage / Touring<br />ERA: Post-War BMW Motorrad<br />SALE TYPE: Consignment<br /><br /><br />SPECS / FEATURES:<br /><br />Classic 494cc BMW boxer-twin engine<br />Air-cooled OHV design<br />Approximately 26 horsepower<br />4-speed manual transmission<br />BMW shaft-drive system<br />Horizontally opposed twin-cylinder layout<br />Classic post-war BMW styling<br />Vintage BMW touring design<br />Smooth, balanced power delivery<br />Simple mechanical construction<br />Iconic exposed boxer-cylinder appearance<br />Built during one of BMW Motorrad’s most recognizable eras<br />Highly desirable platform among vintage BMW enthusiasts<br />Excellent collector or enthusiast motorcycle<br />Timeless German engineering and craftsmanship<br />Offered on consignment through Motor-Speed LLC<br />Why the R50 matters:<br />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.<br />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.<br />CONSIGNMENT NOTICE: This 1960 BMW R50 is being offered on consignment through Motor-Speed LLC. <br />Please contact us directly for additional details, availability, pictures, or to schedule a viewing.<br />📞 Call or text us directly at (916) 249-4291 for additional information, pictures, or to schedule a viewing.<br />🌐 www.sacmotorspeed.com<br />📸 Instagram: @sacmotorspeed<br />👍 Find us on Facebook and YouTube by searching Motor-Speed<br />🏁 Proudly offered on consignment by Motor-Speed LLC<br />📍 Sacramento, CA – local pickup or nationwide shipping available.<br /><br />Similar / Related Motorcycles:<br />BMW R50/2, BMW R50S, BMW R60, BMW R60/2, BMW R69, BMW R69S, BMW R51/3, BMW R67, BMW R68, BMW R75, BMW R75/5, Triumph Bonneville, Norton Dominator, BSA A10, Moto Guzzi Falcone<br /><br />Tags:<br />1960 BMW R50, BMW R50, Vintage BMW Motorcycle, Classic BMW Motorcycle, BMW Boxer Twin, Vintage Boxer Motorcycle, BMW Motorrad Classic, Classic Motorcycle Sacramento, Vintage Motorcycle California, BMW Motorcycle Sacramento, Air Cooled BMW, Shaft Drive Motorcycle, 494cc BMW, Vintage German Motorcycle, Collector Motorcycle, Classic European Motorcycle, BMW Consignment Motorcycle, Consignment Motorcycle Sacramento, Motor-Speed LLC, Sacramento Motorcycle Dealer, Vintage Motorcycle For Sale, Classic BMW For Sale

Transmission:

Automatic

Exterior (Primary) Color:	Black
Interior (Secondary) Color:	Black
Mileage:	39,973
Drive Type:	2-wheel
Transmission:	Automatic