BMW R 1100 GS - 1999 Specifications and Reviews

The 1999 BMW R 1100 GS is a versatile adventure tourer that appeals to both on-road and off-road riders seeking reliable all-terrain capability. Powered by an 1085cc air-cooled boxer engine with shaft drive, it delivers smooth torque across various riding conditions. The model is renowned for its balanced handling, durability, and pioneering role in establishing the adventure motorcycle category.

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General information

CategoryEnduro / offroad
Year1999
ModelBMW R 1100 GS
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
StarterElectric
Fuel systemInjection
Bore x stroke99.0 x 70.5 mm (3.9 x 2.8 inches)
Compression10.3:1
Torque97.00
Power80.00
Stroke4
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer
Capacity:1085.00 ccm (66.21 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,509 mm (59.4 inches)
Alternate seat height860 mm (33.9 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Seat height840 mm (33.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Front percentage of weight50.2
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc254.0 kg (560.0 pounds)

BMW R 1100 GS dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter276 mm (10.9 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter305 mm (12.0 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions150/70-R17
Front tyre dimensions110/80-19
Rear suspension travel200 mm (7.9 inches)
Front suspension travel190 mm (7.5 inches)

Speed and acceleration

60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear9.600 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)3.900 seconds
Top speed195.0 km/h (121.2 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)0.66 litres (0.17 gallons)
Fuel capacity25.00 litres (6.61 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

80 hp
Peak Power
3.9s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track30%
City55%
Cornering60%
Daily Riding70%
Touring90%
Passenger75%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with at least some prior experience, given its height, weight, and adventure-touring dynamics.
PurposeDesigned as a long-distance adventure tourer capable of handling mixed pavement and light off-road terrain.
Rider FitTall seat height and substantial weight mean shorter or less physically confident riders may find slow-speed maneuvers and off-road handling demanding.
CharacterA go-anywhere boxer-powered traveler with a shaft drive's low-maintenance reliability and a torquey, unhurried power delivery rather than outright speed.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for riders seeking sharp sportbike handling or lightweight agility in tight city traffic.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 840mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 1999 BMW R 1100 GS, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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