BMW R16 series 4 vs Harley-Davidson Model K (1953)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the BMW R16 series 4stacks up against the Harley-Davidson Model K. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBMW R16 series 4Harley-Davidson Model K
Model year19331953
Price
Engine736 cc743 cc
Horsepower33 hp30 hp
Weight181 kg
Fuel capacity3.7 L4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission3-speed4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.5-26 / 3.5-26 3.25-19 / 3.25-19

BMW R16 series 4 vs Harley-Davidson Model K — which should you buy?

Picking between the BMW R16 series 4 and the Harley-Davidson Model K usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the BMW R16 series 4 brings 33 hp, while the Harley-Davidson Model K counters with 30 hp at 181 kg.

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: