1988 BMW R100GS

1988 BMW R100GS

enduro80sGermany

A dual-sport from 1988, the 1988 BMW R100GS delivers 60hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV flat-twin
Displacement
980 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
60 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
56.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
94.0 × 70.6 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Bing carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Paralever swingarm
Front Brake
Single disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
195 kg (430 lbs)
Wet Weight
213 kg (470 lbs)
Seat Height
860 mm
Wheelbase
1504 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
26.0 L

History & Story

When BMW unveiled the 1988 BMW R100GS in 1988, it signaled the company's commitment to the dual-sport segment. Built in Germany, this dual-sport embodied the spirit of 1980s motorcycling.

The 1988 BMW R100GS is motivated by a 980cc OHV flat-twin twin-cylinder unit delivering 60hp at 6500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Bing carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with shaft final drive.

The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and paralever swingarm at the rear. Stopping power comes from single disc front and single disc rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1988 BMW R100GS offers a manageable riding experience with a 1504 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1988 BMW R100GS achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 26.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for dual-sport duties. The seat height of 860 mm makes it tall for most riders.

Today, the 1988 BMW R100GS is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of BMW motorcycling from 1980s.

Known Issues

  • Final drive spline wear on shaft-drive models
  • Pushrod tube seal leaks
  • Rocker arm wear
  • Starter motor brushes wear over time

Fun Facts

  • The 1988 BMW R100GS was produced in BMW's Germany facilities
  • The 1988 BMW R100GS featured a steel double cradle frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts