Harley-Davidson Model KK vs BMW R12 Single Carb (1953)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Model KKstacks up against the BMW R12 Single Carb. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Model KKBMW R12 Single Carb
Model year19531942
Price
Engine743 cc745 cc
Horsepower18 hp
Weight183 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L3.7 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.25-19 / 3.25-19 3.5-19 / 3.5-19

Harley-Davidson Model KK vs BMW R12 Single Carb — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Model KK and the BMW R12 Single Carb usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Model KK brings its published horsepower in a 183 kg package, while the BMW R12 Single Carb counters with 18 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: