1988 BMW R100GS
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.
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
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