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 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. 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 | 1988 BMW R100GS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 239.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 26.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo is built for long-distance touring with passenger comfort, while the 1988 BMW R100GS targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo's 82hp trumps the 1988 BMW R100GS's 60hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo if you value long-distance touring with passenger comfort; pick the 1988 BMW R100GS for off-road capability and adventure riding. Parts availability is moderate for the 1982 Honda CX500 Turbo and good for the 1988 BMW R100GS — 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 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 →