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The 1986 BMW K100RS and 1989 BMW K1 represent two chapters in BMW's storied history.
The 1986 BMW K100RS from Germany was powered by a 987cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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 1986 BMW K100RS from Germany was powered by a 987cc DOHC inline-4 producing 90hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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
| 1986 BMW K100RS | 1989 BMW K1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 987 cc | 987 cc |
| Power | 90 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 86.0 Nm | 97.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 245.0 kg | 234.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 262.0 kg | 254.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1516 mm | 1516 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 22.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two BMW machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1986 BMW K100RS laid the groundwork with 90hp, while the later 1989 BMW K1 pushed output to 100hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1989 BMW K1 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any BMW collection.
About the 1986 BMW K100RS
Introduced in 1986, the 1986 BMW K100RS features a 987cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 90hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1986 BMW K100RS 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 →