BMW K100 (1986 – 90)

BMW K100 (1986 - 90)

In 1979, BMW faced a daunting decision: to abandon motorcycle production amidst declining sales. But Dr. Sarfert’s vision for innovation prevailed, and the K589 project was born. This revolutionary bike would go on to become the BMW K100, a game-changing machine that redefined the riding experience.

The K100’s engine, a longitudinally-mounted water-cooled inline-four, produced 90 PS of power and a smooth, torquey delivery. This was no ordinary motorcycle engine – its design was influenced by the Peugeot 104 car engine, which had been experimented with in the late 1970s. The result was a powerhouse that could rival its car counterparts.

As you twist the throttle, the K100’s engine comes alive, its inline-four thrumming with a deep, throaty growl. The riding experience is one of effortless acceleration and precise handling, making it an ideal companion for both daily commutes and long-distance touring.

With its innovative design and exceptional performance, the BMW K100 was a bold statement of intent from a marque that had faced the brink of extinction. And it proved to be a turning point, paving the way for BMW to become one of the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturers. The BMW K100 was more than just a motorcycle – it was a symbol of innovation and a new era of riding excitement.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, horizontal in line four cylinder, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity987 cc / 60.2 cub. in
Max Power65.6 kw / 90 hp
Max Torque86 Nm / 8.8 kgf-m / 63 ft-lb
Fuel Tank Capacity22 Liters / 5.8 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)527 lbs / 239 kg
Seat Height31.90 inches / 810 mm
BMW K100 (1986 - 90)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW K100
Year1986 – 90

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, horizontal in line four cylinder, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement987 cc / 60.2 cub. in
Bore x Stroke67 x 70 mm
Compression Ratio10.2:1
Max Horsepower65.6 kw / 90 hp
Max Torque86 Nm / 8.8 kgf-m / 63 ft-lb
Engine Management SystemElectronic injection, Bosch LE-Jetronic
Lubrication SystemWet sump
Cooling SystemLiquid cooled
ExhaustRust resistant steel, 4 into 1

Performance

Top Speed216.3 km/h / 124.4 mph

Transmission

ClutchDry, single plate, cable operated
Gearbox5 Speed
Gear Ratios1st 4.50 / 2nd 2.96 / 3rd 2.30 / 4th 1.88 / 5th 1.61:1
Final DriveShaft

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery20Ah
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeTubular space frame, engine serving as load bearing component
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork with hydraulic shock absorber
Front Suspension Travel7.3 inches / 185 mm
Rear SuspensionMonolever swinging arm
Rear Suspension Travel4.3 inches / 110 mm

Wheels & Brakes

WheelsAlloy, 8 spoke
Front Wheel/Rim Size2.50 x 18 MT H 2
Front Tire Size100/90-18
Rear Wheel/Rim Size2.75 x 17 MT H 2
Rear Tire Size130/90-17
Front Brakes2 x ∅285 mm discs, 2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle ∅285 mm disc, 1 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height31.90 inches / 810 mm
Wheelbase1516 m /59.7 in.
Ground Clearance175 mm / 6.9 in.
Fuel Tank Capacity22 Liters / 5.8 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight527 lbs / 239 kg

Features

  • Longitudinally disposed 4-cylinder engine
  • Water-cooled, inline 4-cylinder engine
  • Flanged provisional to BMW boxer gearbox
  • 1000 cc cubic capacity
  • 90 PS / 66 kW power output
  • Good and even torque
  • Shaft drive on the right
  • Exhaust on the left
  • Centre of gravity is low
  • Easy to maintenance
  • Easy to get more performance out of a four-cylinder
  • Inexpensive production
  • Own engine, called K4, developed by BMW
  • Triple, called K3, with 1000 cc cubic capacity
  • Single overhead camshaft
  • Lever driven valves
  • Low crankcase height
  • Longitudinally disposed engine design
  • Patented in 1981 as BMW compact drive system
BMW K100 (1986 - 90)

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