The BMW K1, unveiled in 1989, was a game-changer for the European motorcycle market. BMW’s product lineup had become stale, and the company needed a sports bike to compete with the likes of Japanese giants. The K1’s sleek, aerodynamic design, featuring a enclosed front wheel and bulbous tail section, was a bold statement. Its drag coefficient of 0.38 made it one of the most efficient production motorcycles of its time.
The K1’s heart is the extensively revised 1984, four-cylinder K100 engine, now boasting 16 valves, reworked combustion chambers, and a lightweight crankshaft, con rods, and pistons. The adoption of the Bosch Motronic digital engine management system gave the K1 a significant edge, combining fuel injection and ignition control for enhanced response and power.
But what truly sets the K1 apart is its riding experience. The bike’s aerodynamic shape provides exceptional comfort at high speeds, protecting the rider from wind buffeting. With its 100bhp output, the K1 is a force to be reckoned with on the road, offering a thrilling combination of power and handling. The BMW K1 is a true masterpiece of engineering, redefining the boundaries of motorcycle design and performance.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four-stroke, horizontal in line four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity
987 cc / 60.2 cu in
Max Power
72.9 kw / 100 hp
Max Torque
100 Nm / 10.2 kgf-m / 74 ft lb @ 6750 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
22 L/ 5.8 US gal
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
BMW K1
Year
1989
Engine
Engine Type
Four-stroke, horizontal in line four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement
987 cc / 60.2 cu in
Bore x Stroke
67 x 70 mm
Compression Ratio
11.0:1
Max Horsepower
72.9 kw / 100 hp
Max Torque
100 Nm / 10.2 kgf-m / 74 ft lb @ 6750 rpm
Engine Management System
Electronic injection, Bosch Motronic
Cooling System
Liquid cooled
Performance
Top Speed
240.4 km/h / 149.4 mph
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Shaft
Electrical & Electronics System
Starter
Electric
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber
Rear Suspension
Monolayer swinging arm
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
120/70 ZR17
Rear Tire Size
160/60 ZR18
Front Brakes
2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston calipers
Rear Brakes
Single ∅285mm disc, 1 piston caliper
Dimension & Weights
Fuel Tank Capacity
22 L/ 5.8 US gal
Features
16-valve 4-cylinder engine
Bosch Motronic digital engine management system
Fuel injection and ignition system control
100hp engine output
Digital engine management system for enhanced response and power
Good fuel economy
Larger diameter frame tubing
Longer wheelbase
Shorter trail
Paralever single-sided arm
Articulated front suspension
Marzocchi front forks
Brembo brakes
305mm floating front discs
Four-piston front calipers
BMW’s exclusive ABS system
Electronic sensors for wheel speed monitoring
Anti-lock braking system with rapid release of brake pressure
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*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
