1960 BMW R 26 vs 2023 GASGAS EC 250

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
1960 BMW R 26 1960 BMW R 26

All-Round

Engine
Four stroke, single cylinder, pushrod operated, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Power
11.2 kW / 15 hp @ 6400 rpm
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
158 kg / 348 lb
2023 GASGAS EC 250 2023 GASGAS EC 250

All-Round

Engine
Liquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
N/A
Full Specifications
General
Year1956 - 60-
Make ModelBMW R 26-
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)-356 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)-14 in.
Seat Height-956 mm / 38 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-108 kg / 49 lbs. lbs
Fuel Capacity15 liters / US 3.9 gal8 l / 2 gal.
Wet Weight158 kg / 348 lb-
Performance
Max Power11.2 kW / 15 hp @ 6400 rpm-
Engine
Displacement (cc)-249cc
Displacement (ci)-15 cin.
Stroke-2-stroke
Bore x Stroke (mm)-66.4 mm x 72 mm
Displacement247 cc / 15.1 cu in.-
Engine DetailFour stroke, single cylinder, pushrod operated, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.Liquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder
Bore x Stroke68 x 68 mm-
Compression Ratio7.5:1-
Cooling SystemAir cooled-
Fuel Induction1x Bing carburetor type 1/26/46-
IgnitionBattery ignition-
StarterKickElectric starter
Drivetrain
Chain Size-520 X-Ring
ClutchSingle plate, dryDDS wet multi-disc clutch, Braktec hydraulics
Final DriveShaft-
Gear Ratios1st 5.33 / 2nd 3.02 / 3rd 2.04 / 4th 1.54:1-
Gearbox-6-speed
Transmission / Drive4 Speed-
Chassis
Frame TypeSteel twin loop frame, weldedCentral double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
Suspension - FrontTelescopic forkWP XPLOR-USD,48 mm
Suspension - RearLong swing arm with suspension units and oil pressure dampers-
Wheel Travel - Front-300 mm / 12 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)-9 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)-10 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)-260 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)-220 mm
Brakes - Front∅160mm DrumDisc brake
Brakes - Rear∅160mm DrumDisc brake
Tyres - Front3.25 x 18"-
Tyres - Rear3.25 x 18"-

Verdict

Winner on specs

2023 GASGAS EC 250

The 2023 GASGAS EC 250 edges out the 1960 BMW R 26 thanks to its lighter kerb weight. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

1960 BMW R 26 - Advantages

  • Larger fuel tank: More range between stops - an advantage on touring routes and remote roads.

2023 GASGAS EC 250 - Advantages

  • Lighter: 108 kg vs 158 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.

1960 BMW R 26 vs 2023 GASGAS EC 250 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 1960 BMW R 26 and 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 1960 BMW R 26 uses Four stroke, single cylinder, pushrod operated, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder., while the 2023 GASGAS EC 250 is powered by Liquid cooled,249cc,1-cylinder.
Which is lighter, the 1960 BMW R 26 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 2023 GASGAS EC 250 is lighter at 108 kg compared to 158 kg for the 1960 BMW R 26 - a difference of 50 kg. This is a meaningful difference that affects handling and rider fatigue.
Which has the larger fuel tank, the 1960 BMW R 26 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
The 1960 BMW R 26 has the larger tank at approximately 15 litres vs 8 litres for the 2023 GASGAS EC 250. At 5-6 l/100 km that is roughly 250-300 km vs 133-160 km between stops.
Which should I buy, the 1960 BMW R 26 or the 2023 GASGAS EC 250?
Both are strong choices. The 1960 BMW R 26 has the edge in larger fuel tank, while the 2023 GASGAS EC 250 stands out for lighter kerb weight. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.