Harley-Davidson Model X8A vs BMW R50US (1969)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson Model X8Astacks up against the BMW R50US. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson Model X8ABMW R50US
Model year19121969
Price
Engine492 cc494 cc
Horsepower26 hp
Weight118 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake). Duplex full hub
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake). Simplex full hub
Tires3.50-18.00 / 4.02-18.00

Harley-Davidson Model X8A vs BMW R50US — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson Model X8A and the BMW R50US 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 R50US 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: