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The 1980 BMW R80G/S and 1989 BMW K1 represent two chapters in BMW's storied history.
The 1980 BMW R80G/S from Germany was powered by a 798cc OHV flat-twin producing 50hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 186.0kg (410 lbs) and with a seat height of 850mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1989 BMW K1 by contrast offered 987cc of DOHC inline-4 16v power, delivering 100hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 234.0kg (516 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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 1980 BMW R80G/S from Germany was powered by a 798cc OHV flat-twin producing 50hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 186.0kg (410 lbs) and with a seat height of 850mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1989 BMW K1 by contrast offered 987cc of DOHC inline-4 16v power, delivering 100hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 234.0kg (516 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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
| 1980 BMW R80G/S | 1989 BMW K1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 798 cc | 987 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 97.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 186.0 kg | 234.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 254.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 850 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1465 mm | 1516 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 21.5 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two BMW machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1980 BMW R80G/S laid the groundwork with 50hp, while the later 1989 BMW K1 pushed output to 100hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1980 BMW R80G/S holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any BMW collection.
About the 1980 BMW R80G/S
The 1980 1980 BMW R80G/S packs a 798cc OHV flat-twin engine with 50hp into a dual-sport package from BMW.
Full 1980 BMW R80G/S Profile →About the 1989 BMW K1
Introduced in 1989, the 1989 BMW K1 features a 987cc DOHC inline-4 16v engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1989 BMW K1 Profile →