Yamaha RD 250 DX vs BMW R39 (1976)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Yamaha RD 250 DXstacks up against the BMW R39. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecYamaha RD 250 DXBMW R39
Model year19761927
Price
Engine247 cc247 cc
Horsepower27 hp6 hp
Fuel capacity4.4 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed3-speed
Front brakesSingle discExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake
Tires3.00-18 / 3.50-18 3.5-27 / 3.5-27

Yamaha RD 250 DX vs BMW R39 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Yamaha RD 250 DX and the BMW R39 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Yamaha RD 250 DX brings 27 hp, while the BMW R39 counters with 6 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: