Adventure Motorcycles
1989BMW R 65 GS
19 fields on record
The 1989 BMW R 65 GS is a lightweight enduro motorcycle ideal for riders seeking affordable adventure touring and off-road capability. Powered by a air-cooled 649cc boxer twin producing 27 horsepower, it excels at accessible trail riding and long-distance exploration with its comfortable ergonomics and reliable shaft drive. Best known for its durability and manageable performance, the R 65 GS suits intermediate riders prioritizing versatility over raw power.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 198.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as an adventure-tourer, it favors long, easy-paced rides over rough roads and light trails rather than outright speed.
- Built for
- It has an unhurried, mechanically simple charm, rewarding relaxed throttle inputs and steady cruising over aggressive riding.
- Not ideal for
- It is not suited to riders wanting strong acceleration, high top speed, or sharp sportbike-like handling.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM
- Engine type
- Boxer, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1364 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 82.0 x 61.5 mm
- Compression
- 8.4:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 146.0 km/h (90.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.00-21
- 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 | 1988 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 650 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 19.5 L | 19.5 L | 19.5 L | 19.5 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 65 GS?
The 1989 BMW R 65 GS has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW R 65 GS have?
The 1989 BMW R 65 GS has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 5500 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R 65 GS have?
The 1989 BMW R 65 GS has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the BMW R 65 GS weigh?
The 1989 BMW R 65 GS has a Wet weight of 198.0 kg (436.5 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.