BMW R 80G/S (1981)

BMW R 80G/S (1981)

Imagine cruising along a winding greenlane, the forest air filled with the scent of leaves, as the sun casts dappled shadows on the ground below. Suddenly, a rugged enduro bike comes into view, its distinctive front mudguard and upswept exhaust announcing its off-road credentials. This is the BMW R 80G/S, a trailblazer that defies the stereotype of the traditional BMW as a pure roadster.

Built on a lightweight R65 chassis, the R 80G/S boasts a reduced dry weight of just 3701b, making it an agile and responsive ride. The clutch housing has also been optimized, with smaller flywheels that retain the same contact area, ensuring seamless gear shifting. But the true innovation lies in BMW’s pioneering Monolever system, a single driveshaft/suspension strut that provides near 7in of movement, making it the ultimate off-road companion.

As you ride the R 80G/S, you’ll be struck by its exceptional handling and stability, whether on rough trails or smooth roads. With its high bars, chunky tyres, and laid-down rear suspension, this bike is tailor-made for adventure seekers who crave the freedom to explore the great outdoors. The R 80G/S is not just a motorcycle – it’s an invitation to experience the thrill of the unknown, with BMW’s legendary quality and reliability guaranteeing a journey to remember forever.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity797.5 cc / 48.7 cu in.
Max Power37 kw / 50 hp
Max Torque56.7 Nm / 5.8 kgf-m / 41 ft lb @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity19.5 L / 5.1 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)409 lbs / 186 kg
Seat Height33.9 inches / 860 mm
BMW R 80G/S (1981)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 80G/S
Year1981

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement797.5 cc / 48.7 cu in.
Bore x Stroke84.8 x 70.6 mm
Compression Ratio9.2:1
Max Horsepower37 kw / 50 hp
Max Torque56.7 Nm / 5.8 kgf-m / 41 ft lb @ 5000 rpm
Engine Management System2 x Bing constant depression carburetorss
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed167 km/h / 104 mph

Transmission

ClutchDry single plate, with diaphragm spring
Gearbox5 Speed
Gear Ratios1st 4.40 / 2nd 2.86 / 3rd 2.07 / 4th 1.67 / 5th 1.50:1
Final DriveShaft

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric & Kick

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeDouble loop tubular frame with bolt on rear section
Front SuspensionTelescopic hydraulic forks
Front Suspension Travel7.8 inches / 200 mm
Rear SuspensionMonolever swinging arm
Rear Suspension Travel6.6 inches / 170 mm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size3.00 – 21
Rear Tire Size4.00 – 18
Front BrakesSingle ∅260mm disc
Rear Brakes∅200mm Drum

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height33.9 inches / 860 mm
Wheelbase67.6 inches / 1465 mm
Ground Clearance175 mm / 6.88 in
Fuel Tank Capacity19.5 L / 5.1 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight409 lbs / 186 kg

Features

  • Reduced weight to 3701b
  • Adapted R65 chassis
  • Reduced clutch flywheel size
  • Smaller clutch plates
  • Thin webbed ring gear
  • Monolever single driveshaft/suspension strut
  • Gas-filled spring damper
  • 3 bolts hold Monolever to drive hub
  • Near 7in of suspension movement
  • 30% improvement in torsional rigidity
  • 50% improvement in torsional rigidity (claimed)
  • Slimline chassis
  • Low centre of gravity
  • 8Viin ground clearance
  • Improved throttle response
  • Lightened flywheel
  • Two-into-one exhaust system
  • Instant midrange punch
  • Easy wheelies with low rev torque

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