BMW R 80G/S Paris Dakar (1985)

The BMW R 80G/S Paris Dakar is a behemoth of a motorcycle, boasting impressive size and speed, making it one of the world’s biggest and fastest off-road bikes. On the road, it’s a force to be reckoned with, reaching speeds of 100 mph, but when the dirt gets rough, it’s more of a capable all-rounder than a serious off-road competitor.

The GS stands for Gelände Strasse, or street scrambler, and that’s a fitting description for this adventurous machine. BMW’s engineers took existing parts and mixed them with some innovative thinking, resulting in the patented mono-lever rear suspension, which is both lighter and stronger than a conventional assembly.

The bike’s tall stature provides excellent ground clearance, while the quick steering and lively throttle response make it a joy to ride. The flat twin engine provides plenty of power, and the S-rated knobbly tyres deliver impressive traction.

The BMW R 80G/S Paris Dakar is not just a machine, it’s a gateway to adventure, a two-wheeled Range Rover for the modern explorer, and it’s this very spirit that has led it to victory in the gruelling Paris to Dakar rally on three occasions.

Key Specifications

Engine Type	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity	797.5 cc / 48.7 cu in.
Max Power	37 kw / 50 hp
Max Torque	56.7 Nm / 5.8 kgf-m / 41 ft lb @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity	32 L / 8.4 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)	452 lbs / 205 kg
Seat Height	33.9 inches / 860 mm

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

All Specifications

Make & Model

Model	BMW R 80G/S Paris Dakar
Year	1985

Engine

Engine Type	Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, pushrod operated 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement	797.5 cc / 48.7 cu in.
Bore x Stroke	84.8 x 70.6 mm
Compression Ratio	9.2:1
Max Horsepower	37 kw / 50 hp
Max Torque	56.7 Nm / 5.8 kgf-m / 41 ft lb @ 5000 rpm
Engine Management System	2 x Bing constant depression carburetors
Cooling System	Air cooled

Performance

Top Speed

n/a

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

Transmission

Clutch	Dry single plate, with diaphragm spring
Gearbox	5 Speed
Gear Ratios	1st 4.40 / 2nd 2.86 / 3rd 2.07 / 4th 1.67 / 5th 1.50:1
Final Drive	Shaft

Electrical & Electronics System

Starter

Electric & Kick

Chassis & Suspension

Frame Type	Double loop tubular frame with bolt on rear section
Front Suspension	Telescopic hydraulic forks.
Front Suspension Travel	7.8 inches / 200 mm
Rear Suspension	Monolever swinging arm.
Rear Suspension Travel	6.6 inches / 170 mm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size	3.00 – 21
Rear Tire Size	4.00 – 18
Front Brakes	Single ∅260mm disc
Rear Brakes	∅200mm Drum

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height	33.9 inches / 860 mm
Wheelbase	67.6 inches / 1465 mm
Ground Clearance	175 mm / 6.88 in
Fuel Tank Capacity	32 L / 8.4 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight	452 lbs / 205 kg

Features

Mono-lever rear suspension with one-sided swing-arm and single gas shock unit
6.7in of rear wheel travel
Rear wheel held on by three bolts, no axle
Large wheel bearing and internally stressed crown wheel housing
Quick wheel changing due to rear suspension design
Leading axle forks with 7.9in of travel
Tall machine with 8.58in of ground clearance
Quick steering and lively throttle response
Light and nimble handling
Good brakes
Low centre of gravity
Dual-purpose, knobbly S-rated tyres
Updated engine with typical BMW performance
Light-weight clutch and flywheel
Low gearing for wheelie capability
100 mph top speed on the open road
Long wheelbase
Unsprung weight of driveshaft
Horizontal cylinders with long protrusion
4.3gal fuel capacity
4101lb fully loaded weight

*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com