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Touring Motorcycles

1990BMW R 100 RT

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The 1990 BMW R 100 RT is a classic touring motorcycle ideal for long-distance riders seeking comfort and reliability. Powered by an air-cooled 979cc boxer twin with shaft drive, it delivers dependable performance and legendary BMW durability. Best known for its stable handling, spacious ergonomics, and timeless design, this machine remains a favorite among adventure touring enthusiasts.

Capacity
979.0 ccm
Engine
Boxer
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
214.0 kg
Seat height
807 mm
Power
60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
Other years 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 34Agility 39Comfort 80Off-road 10Touring 88Road manners 70
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering45%
City riding40%
Daily riding60%
Touring90%
Two-up80%
Track15%
Best for
Built for long-distance touring, delivering steady power and comfort over hundreds of miles rather than sporty thrills.
Built for
A classic, torque-rich boxer twin with a relaxed, mechanical charm that rewards smooth, deliberate riding over aggressive throttle use.
Not ideal for
Not for riders seeking sharp acceleration, agile cornering, or a lightweight machine for quick city commuting.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 807mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1990 BMW R 100 RT, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

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Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
979.0 ccm
Power
60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
Engine type
Boxer
Power/weight ratio
0.2804 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
94.0 x 70.6 mm
Compression
8.4:1
Cooling system
Air
Starting
Electric
Valves per cylinder
2
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Shaft
Performance
Top speed
168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Seat height
807 mm
Dry weight
214.0 kg
Wet weight
238.0 kg
Fuel capacity
22.00 litres
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Front tyre
90/90-18
Rear tyre
120/90-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 198019841988199019921996
Capacity 979 cc 979 cc 979 cc 979 cc 979 cc 980 cc
Dry weight 214 kg 214 kg 214 kg 214 kg 214 kg 214 kg
Seat height 807 mm 807 mm 807 mm 807 mm 807 mm 850 mm
Fuel capacity 24 L 24 L 22 L 22 L 22 L 22 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the BMW R 100 RT?

The 1990 BMW R 100 RT has a Capacity of 979.0 ccm (59.74 cubic inches).

What engine power does the BMW R 100 RT have?

The 1990 BMW R 100 RT has a Power of 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM.

How many gears does the BMW R 100 RT have?

The 1990 BMW R 100 RT has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the BMW R 100 RT weigh?

The 1990 BMW R 100 RT has a Dry weight of 214.0 kg (471.8 pounds).

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