BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2
Known as the "Slash 2," this series of post-war BMW boxer twins is famous for its Earles fork suspension, shaft drive, and legendary reliability. It remains a popular and usable classic motorcycle with a stable and well-established collector market.
Find one with Spotter →BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 sold for a median of $9,250 over the last 12 months, based on 15 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $7,025 and $12,750. 12 currently for sale.
The BMW R50 and R60 series, produced from 1955 to 1969, represent the classic post-war boxer twin. Known as the "Slash 2" models, they introduced BMW's famous Earles leading-link front fork and a dual-swingarm frame, a significant update from the previous plunger-frame bikes. With their horizontally-opposed engines, shaft drive, and exceptional build quality, these motorcycles earned a reputation for being reliable, comfortable long-distance tourers.
Collectors appreciate these bikes for their iconic looks, mechanical simplicity, and usability. Unlike many vintage motorcycles, a well-sorted /2 is perfectly capable of keeping up with modern traffic and can be used for daily riding or cross-country trips. Their popularity for sidecar use also adds to their appeal, with many examples still found in three-wheeled configurations. The 600cc R60/2 is generally more sought-after than the 500cc R50/2 for its extra power.
The market for these BMWs is mature and stable, with consistent demand. The wide sales range reflects the vast difference between neglected projects and expertly restored examples. An average price of around $16,871 shows a healthy market, but top sales exceeding $50,000 are typically reserved for rare, numbers-matching bikes with desirable options or flawless restorations. Well-maintained rider-quality bikes offer a great entry point into vintage BMW ownership.
Buying Tips
- Verify that the frame, engine, and headstock plate all have matching numbers. Non-matching bikes are worth significantly less.
- Inspect the frame carefully for cracks or repairs, especially around the steering head and sidecar mounts, as these were common failure points.
- The original oil slingers in the engine require a full teardown to replace. Check for excessive oil consumption or leaks from the rear main seal area, which indicates slinger issues.
- Examine the Earles fork and rear swingarm bearings for play. Worn bearings can make the bike feel unstable and are costly to replace.
- Many bikes have been converted from their original 6-volt electrical system to a more modern 12-volt system. Confirm the quality of the conversion and decide if originality or usability is more important to you.
Based on 152 recent sales, prices range from $2,750 for project bikes to $56,500 for pristine, concours-level examples.
252 BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 12 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 cost?
Over the last 12 months, BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 sold for a median of $9,250 across 15 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $7,025 and $12,750. There are 12 currently for sale.
How many BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 listings are for sale right now?
There are 12 BMW R50 & R50/2 & R60 & R60/2 listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.