VS
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and 1977 BMW R100RS both compete in the touring segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin turbo producing 82hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 239.0kg (527 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1977 BMW R100RS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin turbo producing 82hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 239.0kg (527 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1977 BMW R100RS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 70hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo | 1977 BMW R100RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 239.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 24.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two tourings are remarkably well-matched. With 82hp versus 70hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. Parts availability is moderate for the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and good for the 1977 BMW R100RS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo
A touring motorcycle from 1982, the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo delivers 82hp from its 497cc OHV V-twin turbo engine.
Full 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo Profile →About the 1977 BMW R100RS
A touring motorcycle from 1977, the 1977 BMW R100RS delivers 70hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1977 BMW R100RS Profile →