BMW R90S “Silver Smoke” 1973
The BMW R90S was a game changer which combined proven and new technologies with high performance figures and a distinctive look. BMW’s stylish 70s all-round superbike was capable of reaching an impressive top speed of 200 km/h. This attractive early example is restored into a perfect period correct condition by a renowned specialist. It will steal the hearts of every person who’ll only see a glimpse while this R90S passes by, but this BMW offers a long love connection to the one who will actually ride it. Even after almost 5 decades, the BMW R90S remains one of the most collectable motorcycles BMW has ever produced.
The BMW R90S had been on the market from 1973 till 1976 and created a class on its own. Its reliable 898 cc air cooled boxer engine was equipped with responsive 38mm Dell’Orto carburetors. A convincing power output of 67 hp was delivered at 7000 RPM. Riders were impressed by the throttle response, smoothness and extra power at high revs compared to its Bavarian relatives. It got a 5-speed gearbox, a novelty for BMW in 1973. Its top-notch finish and build quality set a new standard for high performance motorcycles. Even though it wasn’t the fastest among them, it wasn’t the slowest either. BMW never intended the R90S to be a race bike, it was just a much better bike compared to all the others and nobody disagreed on that.
Any R90S impressed friend or foe on both straight and twisty roads. The red line was set at 7200 and maximum torque was available at 5000 revs. This let the sleek BMW run fast, while the rider was slightly guarded by the tiny fairing. A quarter mile time of just 13.3 seconds was beyond everyone’s expectations and so was its ability to accelerate from a complete standstill to 100 km/u in just 4.8 seconds. It got twin disc brakes at front for extra stopping power, a system the “S” shared with the BMW R75/6. The latter was more focussed on touring, just like the R90/6, while the “S” was the sporty all-round top model that competed with great confidence against the fastest bikes from Italy, Japan and Britain. The worry-free driveability stood out and still feels on par nowadays next to other of the greatest classic sports and touring bikes.
This rare example is still an exciting masterpiece today. After a complete technical and cosmetic restoration 3 years ago it was well taken care of by its current caretaker. This S has been refurbished with originality in mind. All cosmetic and technical work was carried out by a well-known brand specialist. Only original parts were used when replacement was necessary, otherwise parts were refurbished with maximum care to accomplish the fine result you see on the photos. We are keen to invite you to our showroom, where you can inspect this BMW in all its glory.
Specifications:
Year of build: 1973
Body type: Bikini fairing with integrated dashboard
Engine: 900cc four stroke boxer with twin carburetors
Gearbox: 5-speed
Brakes: twin discs at front, drum at the rear
Colour: Silver Smoke (“Rauch-Silber” 561)
Condition: Restored to the highest standard
Please ask for our Facetime-solution if you aren’t capable of coming over to Bodegraven, The Netherlands. We understand the situation and are willing to help with extra information and shipping.
