Touring Motorcycles
1981BMW R 100 RT
22 fields on record
The 1981 BMW R 100 RT is a classic touring motorcycle designed for long-distance riders seeking comfort and reliability. Powered by an air-cooled 979cc boxer twin producing 70 horsepower, it delivers smooth, dependable performance through its shaft drive. Known for its upright riding position, excellent fuel efficiency, and legendary German engineering, the R 100 RT remains a benchmark for adventure touring motorcycles.
- Capacity
- 979.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 214.0 kg
- Seat height
- 807 mm
- Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
What’s new for the 1981 BMW R 100 RT
vs the 1980| Spec | 1980 | 1981 |
|---|---|---|
| Wet weight | 234.0 kg (515.9 pounds) | 260.0 kg (573.2 pounds) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- 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 usEngine
- Capacity
- 979.0 ccm
- Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
- Engine type
- Boxer
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3271 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 94.0 x 70.6 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- 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
- 179.0 km/h (111.2 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 807 mm
- Dry weight
- 214.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 260.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 24.00 litres
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 4.00-18
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 | 1980 | 1981 | 1984 | 1988 | 1992 | 1996 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 24 L | 22 L | 22 L | 22 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the BMW R 100 RT?
The 1981 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 1981 BMW R 100 RT has a Power of 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R 100 RT have?
The 1981 BMW R 100 RT has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the BMW R 100 RT weigh?
The 1981 BMW R 100 RT has a Dry weight of 214.0 kg (471.8 pounds).
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