Harley-Davidson Model X8A vs BMW R50 2 (1969)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Model X8Astacks up against the BMW R50 2. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Model X8ABMW R50 2
Model year19121969
Price
Engine492 cc494 cc
Horsepower26 hp
Weight118 kg
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.50-18 / 3.50-18

Harley-Davidson Model X8A vs BMW R50 2 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Model X8A and the BMW R50 2 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Model X8A brings its published horsepower in a 118 kg package, while the BMW R50 2 counters with 26 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: