Harley-Davidson Model R vs BMW R11 Series 4 (1934)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Model Rstacks up against the BMW R11 Series 4. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Model RBMW R11 Series 4
Model year19321934
Price
Engine743 cc745 cc
Horsepower18 hp
Weight181 kg
Fuel capacity3.7 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission3-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3-26 / 3-26 3.50-26.00 / 3.50-26.00

Harley-Davidson Model R vs BMW R11 Series 4 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Model R and the BMW R11 Series 4 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson Model R brings its published horsepower in a 181 kg package, while the BMW R11 Series 4 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: