BMW R32 vs Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect) (1985)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the BMW R32stacks up against the Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect). Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBMW R32Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect)
Model year19261985
Price
Engine494 cc498 cc
Horsepower9 hp27 hp
Fuel capacity3.7 L5.3 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission3-speed5-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake
Tires2.99-26 / 2.99-26 100/90-18 / 110/90-18

BMW R32 vs Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect) — which should you buy?

Picking between the BMW R32 and the Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect) usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the BMW R32 brings 9 hp, while the Honda XBR 500 N (reduced effect) counters with 27 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: