BMW R 100GS (1987)

BMW R 100GS (1987)

The BMW R 100GS is an off-road behemoth, boasting a massive presence on the world’s toughest terrain, yet handling the road with surprising finesse. This behemoth’s engine character is a symphony of power and torque, with a linear delivery that belies its off-road credentials. As you twist the throttle, the GS’s V-twin engine sings a sweet melody, propelling the bike forward with effortless ease.

Its Paralever rear suspension is a masterstroke, a one-sided swing-arm that’s half the weight and twice the strength of a conventional design. This innovative engineering marvel eliminates drive shaft torque reaction, allowing for quick and precise handling on the most unforgiving terrain.

Whether carving up twisties or tackling the rough stuff, the R 100GS is a joy to ride, its steering quick and throttle response lively. Add to this a low centre of gravity, courtesy of the flat twin layout, and you have a bike that can be tossed around with abandon. The result is an all-purpose machine that’s as at home on the road as it is in the dirt, making it a true adventure bike for the ages. The BMW R 100GS truly redefines the boundaries of on- and off-road riding, a testament to BMW’s innovative spirit and engineering prowess.

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 Capacity24 L / 6.3 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)462 lbs / 210 kg
Seat Height33.5 inches / 850 mm
BMW R 100GS (1987)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 100GS
Year1987

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 Speed181 km/h / 112 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 Capacity24 L / 6.3 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight462 lbs / 210 kg

Features

  • Paralever adjustable preload
  • Rebound damping compression
  • Rear wheel bearing is big
  • Crown wheel housing is internally stressed
  • 7in of travel available in rear suspension
  • Leading axle forks with 8.8in of travel
  • Tall and high ground clearance (8.58in)
  • Quick steering
  • Lively throttle response
  • Low centre of gravity
  • Dual-purpose, knobbly tyres
  • Tubeless tyres
  • Cross-spoke wire wheel
  • Isolated rim design
  • Updated variant of the R80 engine
  • Lightweight clutch and flywheel
  • Low gearing
  • Long wheelbase
  • Unsprung weight of the driveshaft
BMW R 100GS (1987)
BMW R 100GS (1987)
BMW R 100GS (1987)

Know someone who’d find this useful? Share this page with a friend, your riding club or your favourite motorcycle community.

Explore our collection of BMW motorcycles for detailed specifications and model information. Or browse all motorcycle manufacturers.


more Specifications