Adventure Motorcycles
1988BMW R 100 GS
21 fields on record
The 1988 BMW R 100 GS is a legendary dual-sport enduro built for adventure riders seeking long-distance capability and genuine off-road performance. Its air-cooled 979cc boxer engine delivers reliable power with shaft drive practicality, while the robust frame and comfortable ergonomics make it ideal for expedition travel across varied terrain. This model defined the adventure bike category and remains highly sought after by enthusiasts valuing durability and versatility.
- Capacity
- 979.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 199.0 kg
- Seat height
- 850 mm
- Power
- 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for long-distance touring and light off-road adventure travel rather than outright speed or track work.
- Built for
- A rugged, torque-rich boxer-twin adventure tourer with old-school charm, mechanical simplicity, and dependable long-haul character.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking sharp sport performance, light nimble handling, or a low, easy-to-manage seat height.
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
- 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM
- Engine type
- Boxer
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3015 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 94.0 x 70.6 mm
- Compression
- 8.5:1
- 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
- 164.0 km/h (101.9 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 850 mm
- Dry weight
- 199.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 210.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 26.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 90/90-21
- Rear tyre
- 130/80-17
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 | 1990 | 1991 | 1993 | 1994 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 979 cc | 979 cc | 979 cc | 979 cc | 979 cc |
| Dry weight | 199 kg | 199 kg | 199 kg | 199 kg | 199 kg |
| Seat height | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm | 850 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 26 L | 26 L | 26 L | 24 L | 24 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 GS?
The 1988 BMW R 100 GS has a Capacity of 979.0 ccm (59.74 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW R 100 GS have?
The 1988 BMW R 100 GS has a Power of 60.0 HP (44.1 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R 100 GS have?
The 1988 BMW R 100 GS has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the BMW R 100 GS weigh?
The 1988 BMW R 100 GS has a Dry weight of 199.0 kg (438.7 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.