BMW R 100GS (1988)

BMW R 100GS (1988)

The BMW R 100GS is a behemoth of a bike, boasting the largest and fastest off-road credentials in the world. While it excels on the road, its true prowess lies in its ability to tackle the toughest terrain with ease. Nicknamed the ‘street scrambler’, this machine is an all-purpose marvel, effortlessly gliding over continents with a range of terrain. Its 115mph road credentials are matched by its impressive off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice for long-distance adventurers.

The Paralever rear suspension is a game-changer, providing 7in of travel and eliminating driveshaft torque reaction. Paired with leading axle forks offering 8.8in of travel, the R 100GS rides with luxurious smoothness. Its low centre of gravity and light, nimble handling make it a joy to chuck around, while the dual-purpose tyres provide high-speed stability.

This innovative blend of parts and adventurous engineering culminates in a machine that is at once a road bike and a dirt bike, defying categorization. The BMW R 100GS is a true trailblazer, and its reputation as one of the best all-purpose bikes ever built is well-deserved.

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 (1988)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 100GS
Year1988

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 damping
  • Patented Paralever rear suspension
  • One-sided swing-arm
  • Single gas shock unit
  • Lighter and 50% stronger than conventional assembly
  • Three bolts hold the rear wheel
  • No axle, just a wheel bearing
  • Crown wheel housing is internally stressed
  • 7in of travel available
  • Leading axle forks
  • 8.8in of travel
  • Tall and high ground clearance (8.58in)
  • Quick and lively throttle response
  • Lightweight clutch and flywheel
  • Quicker throttle response
  • Low gearing
  • Dual-purpose, knobbly tyres
  • Tubeless thanks to isolated rim design
  • High-speed rated tyres
  • Cross-spoke wire wheel
  • Updated variant of the R80 road bike engine
  • Bags of torque
  • Wide spread of power
  • Dual-purpose innovations
BMW R 100GS (1988)
BMW R 100GS (1988)

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