The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing from Japan was powered by a 999cc SOHC flat-4 producing 80hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1988 BMW R100GS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 60hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing | 1988 BMW R100GS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 80 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 289.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 19.0 L | 26.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing is built for long-distance touring with passenger comfort, while the 1988 BMW R100GS targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing's 80hp trumps the 1988 BMW R100GS's 60hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing if you value long-distance touring with passenger comfort; pick the 1988 BMW R100GS for off-road capability and adventure riding.
About the 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing
The 1975 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing packs a 999cc SOHC flat-4 engine with 80hp into a touring motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing Profile →About the 1988 BMW R100GS
A dual-sport from 1988, the 1988 BMW R100GS delivers 60hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1988 BMW R100GS Profile →