BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition (1978)

BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition (1978)

The BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition embodies the essence of the Bavarian marque’s commitment to functionalism and simplicity. This latest iteration boasts a potent 980cc engine, featuring a 94mm bore and 70.6mm stroke, resulting in a torque-rich powerplant that rewards throttle input with seamless acceleration.

The 2 x Constant depression carburettors, Bing 94/40/105 – 94/40/106, perfectly complement the engine’s character, imbuing the R 100RS with a sense of urgency and responsiveness. As you settle into the saddle, the weight and balance of the bike become apparent, inviting you to explore its full potential on the twisties.

The riding experience is nothing short of exhilarating, with the R 100RS begging to be pushed to its limits. And push it you will, for in this special edition, the boundaries between road and track are blissfully blurred.

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 / 7.75 kgf-m / 56 ft-lb @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity6.3 US gallons / 24.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)506 lbs / 230 kg
Seat Height32.3 inches / 820 mm
BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition (1978)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelBMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition
Year1978

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 / 7.75 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 Speed196 km/h / 121.5 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 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 Size2.15 – B19
Front Tire Size3.25 – H19
Rear Wheel/Rim Size2.50 – B18
Rear Tire Size4.00 – H18
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) Weight506 lbs / 230 kg

Features

  • 2 x Constant depression carburettors
  • Bing 94/40/105 – 94/40/106 carburettors
  • 980cc engines with 94mm bore and 70.6mm stroke
  • Short-stroke engine design
  • Increased torque throughout the rpm range
  • O-ring seals on cylinder bases
  • New crankcase ventilation systems
  • Reduced oil consumption
  • Shortened and thicker cylinder cooling fins
  • New cylinder heads for less mechanical noise and improved heat dissipation
  • Aluminum alloy pushrods that are 20 percent lighter in weight
  • Rocker arms located in the cylinder head with seat rings
  • Improved valve clearance and simplified alignment
  • Constant-velocity Bing carburetors on R100S and RS models
  • Electric starter motor with changed gear ratio for improved cold-start performance
  • 6.3-gal. fuel tank
  • Standard equipment on R90S and new R100S and RS models
BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition (1978)
BMW R 100RS Motorsport Special Edition (1978)

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