BMW R 100RT (1978 – 79)

BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)

As we ride briskly down a curving, rain-dampened road on the way to an early-morning photo session, the BMW R100RT proves its mettle. A sudden encounter with a helmet-sized rock and an oncoming car with its lights off puts its handling and stability to the test, and the RT passes with flying colors. Its 8 inches of front fork travel and inherent manageability are the key to its impressive performance.

The RT’s engine, powered by two constant depression carburetors, Bing 94/40/105-106, delivers a smooth and responsive ride, making it an ideal companion for long-distance touring. With a retail price of $6345, the RT is the most expensive line production motorcycle in the world, a testament to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

But what truly sets the RT apart is its unique blend of function and exclusivity. A BMW is not just a motorcycle, but a statement of style and sophistication, one that demands to be treated with respect and care. And with its legendary reputation for durability and longevity, the RT is an investment that will only appreciate with time. In short, the BMW R100RT is a masterpiece of engineering and design, a true icon of the motorcycling world.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity980 cc / 59.8 cub in.
Max Power51 kw / 70 hp
Max Torque76 Nm / 7.7 kgf-m / 56 ft-lb @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity6.3 US gallons / 24.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)515 lbs / 234 kg
Seat Height32.3 inches / 820 mm
BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 100RT
Year1978 – 79

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement980 cc / 59.8 cub in.
Bore x Stroke94 x 70.6 mm
Compression Ratio9.5:1
Max Horsepower51 kw / 70 hp
Max Torque76 Nm / 7.7 kgf-m / 56 ft-lb @ 6000 rpm
Engine Management System2 x Constant depression carburettors, Bing 94/40/105 – 94/40/106
Lubrication SystemWet sump
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed203 km/h /126 mph

Transmission

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

Electrical & Electronics System

BatteryBosch 0.6 hp (from 1978: 0.7 Kw)
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeDouble sown tubs, dual cradle
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber.
Front Suspension Travel7.8 inches / 200 mm
Rear SuspensionLong swinging arm with adjustable strut.
Rear Suspension Travel4.9 inches / 125 mm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Wheel/Rim Size1.85 B 19
Front Tire Size3.25 H-19
Rear Wheel/Rim Size2.75 C 18
Rear Tire Size4.00 H-18
Front Brakes2 x ∅260mm discs 2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSimplex ∅200 mm drum

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height32.3 inches / 820 mm
Wheelbase57.67 inches / 1465 mm
Ground Clearance165 mm / 6.49 in
Fuel Tank Capacity6.3 US gallons / 24.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight515 lbs / 234 kg

Features

  • 2 x Constant depression carburettors
  • Bing 94/40/105 – 94/40/106 carburetors
  • Longitudinal, horizontally opposed, air-cooled twin engine
  • 100-series motorcycle engine
  • 60 cubic inches displacement
  • 2 carburetor inlets
  • 4 valves to adjust
  • 40mm GV Bing carburetors
  • Street-riding’s finest front fork (8 inches travel)
  • Front fork travel
  • Replacement front wheel cost ($404.45)
  • Most expensive line production motorcycle in the world ($6345)
  • Exclusive clubhouse features (resale value, longevity, manufacturing quality, uniqueness)
  • Passive haughtiness
  • Full-house touring version
  • Semi-touring version (RS)
  • Sporting version (S)
  • Pipe rack version (R100T)
  • Slightly overbored and subtly refined update (R80/7)
BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)
BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)
BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)
BMW R 100RT (1978 - 79)

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