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The 1985 BMW K75 and 1988 BMW R100GS represent two chapters in BMW's storied history.
The 1985 BMW K75 from Germany was powered by a 740cc DOHC inline-3 producing 75hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 210.0kg (463 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1988 BMW R100GS 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.
The 1985 BMW K75 from Germany was powered by a 740cc DOHC inline-3 producing 75hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 210.0kg (463 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1988 BMW R100GS 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
| 1985 BMW K75 | 1988 BMW R100GS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 740 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 75 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 210.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 228.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1496 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 21.0 L | 26.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two BMW machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1985 BMW K75 laid the groundwork with 75hp, while the later 1988 BMW R100GS pushed output to 60hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1988 BMW R100GS holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any BMW collection.
About the 1985 BMW K75
Born in 1985, the 1985 BMW K75 is a 740cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 75hp from BMW.
Full 1985 BMW K75 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 →