1989 BMW K1

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.

Specifications

Engine

Type
DOHC inline-4 16v
Displacement
987 cc
Cylinders
4
Power
100 hp @ 8000 rpm
Torque
97.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
67.0 × 70.0 mm
Cooling
Water-cooled
Fuel System
Bosch Motronic fuel injection

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel tube space frame
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Paralever swingarm
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Shaft

Performance

Top Speed
235 km/h (146 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
234 kg (516 lbs)
Wet Weight
254 kg (560 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1516 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
22.0 L

History & Story

When BMW unveiled the 1989 BMW K1 in 1989, it signaled the company's commitment to the sport bike segment. Built in Germany, this sport bike embodied the spirit of 1980s motorcycling.

Powering the 1989 BMW K1 is a 987cc DOHC inline-4 16v producing 100hp. This four-cylinder engine uses water-cooled cooling and draws fuel through Bosch Motronic fuel injection. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via shaft final drive to the rear wheel.

The chassis employs a steel tube space frame frame with telescopic fork up front and paralever swingarm at the rear. Stopping power comes from dual disc front and single disc rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 234 kg (516 lbs) dry, the 1989 BMW K1 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1516 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1989 BMW K1 achieves a claimed top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 22.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Known Issues

  • Final drive spline wear on shaft-drive models
  • Fuel injection (K-series) relay board failures
  • Starter motor brushes wear over time

Fun Facts

  • With 100hp, the 1989 BMW K1 was considered extremely powerful when launched
  • The 1989 BMW K1 was produced in BMW's Germany facilities
  • The 1989 BMW K1 featured a steel tube space frame frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
6/10

Resources & Parts