BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)

BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)

In the scorching dunes of the Sahara, an unlikely champion emerged. The BMW R 100GS Paris Dakar, born from the collaboration of BMW and the Paris Dakar Rally, embodied the perfect blend of reliability, comfort, and performance. Its shaft drive, largely impervious to the unforgiving desert terrain, proved to be the key to success.

The R 100GS Paris Dakar’s engine character is unmistakable – a boxer twin that roars to life with a deep, throaty growl. Its 980cc displacement churns out a robust 70 horsepower, making it an ideal companion for the long haul. With its Paralever adjustable preload and rebound damping compression, the bike’s suspension soaks up the rough terrain with ease, allowing riders to focus on the road ahead.

The riding experience is nothing short of exhilarating. The bike’s MonoLever swingarm, a testament to BMW’s innovative spirit, provides unparalleled stability and control. Whether carving through sand dunes or navigating treacherous terrain, the R 100GS Paris Dakar is the ultimate desert conqueror. And as Gaston Rahier and other champions rode these beasts to victory, one thing became clear: this bike was built to win, and to win big.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity980 cc / 59.8 cu in.
Max Power44 kw / 60 hp
Max Torque76 Nm / 7.75 kgf-m / 56 ft-lb @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity35L / 8.1 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)519 lbs / 236 kg
Seat Height33.5 inches / 850 mm
BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 100GSParis Dakar
Year1990 –

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement980 cc / 59.8 cu in.
Bore x Stroke94 x 70.6 mm
Compression Ratio8.5:1
Max Horsepower44 kw / 60 hp
Max Torque76 Nm / 7.75 kgf-m / 56 ft-lb @ 3750 rpm
Engine Management System2 x Bing carburetors
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed176 km/h / 109 mph

Transmission

ClutchDry single plate, with diaphragm spring
Gearbox5 Speed
Gear Ratios1st4.40 / 2nd 2.86 / 3rd 2.07 / 4th 1.67 / 5th 1.50:1
Final DriveShaft

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeDouble loop tubular frame with bolt on rear section
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber.
Front Suspension Travel8.8 inches / 225 mm
Rear SuspensionParalever adjustable preload, rebound damping compression
Rear Suspension Travel7.0 inches / 180 mm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Wheel/Rim Size1.85 – 21 MTH 2
Front Tire Size90/90-21
Rear Wheel/Rim Size2.50 – 17 MTH 2
Rear Tire Size130/80-17
Front BrakesSingle ∅285mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Rear Brakes∅200 Drum

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height33.5 inches / 850 mm
Wheelbase59.6 inches / 1514 mm
Ground Clearance200mm / 7.9 in
Fuel Tank Capacity35L / 8.1 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight519 lbs / 236 kg

Features

  • Paralever adjustable preload
  • Rebound damping compression
  • Single sided swingarm (MonoLever)
  • Ring & pinion in the right side of the swingarm
  • Three lug bolts securing the wheel to the ring gear
  • High fenders
  • Longer travel suspension
  • Uncommon feature for the day: single sided swingarm
  • Fuel tanks of up to 11 gallons (US)
  • Heavy but stone reliable and easy to maintain
  • BMW shaft drive
  • Long travel shocks
  • Reinforced frames
  • Lengthened swingarms
  • Best forks and brakes of the day
  • Huge fuel tanks
  • Hand hammered aluminum tanks
  • Fuel capacity increased in 1988 model year
  • Displacement bump to 1000cc in 1988 model year
BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)
BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)
BMW R 100GSParis Dakar (1990 -)

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