1997BMW R 1100 GS

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The 1997 BMW R 1100 GS is a pioneering adventure bike that established the template for modern dual-sports, combining genuine off-road capability with comfortable touring credentials. Its air-cooled boxer engine delivers smooth, linear power ideal for diverse terrain, while the shaft-drive transmission and relatively manageable weight suit riders seeking versatile exploration. Best known for reliability and all-condition performance, it appeals to adventurous riders prioritizing capability over specialization.

Capacity: 1085.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 218.0 kg
Seat height: 840 mm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6750 RPM

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What’s new for the 1997 BMW R 1100 GS

vs the 1996

Spec	1996	1997
Top speed	—	200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)
Wet weight	243.0 kg (535.7 pounds)	248.5 kg (547.8 pounds)
Front brakes	Dual disc	Single disc

Other years 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail68%

Cornering60%

City riding55%

Daily riding70%

Touring90%

Two-up75%

Track30%

Best for: Designed as a long-distance adventure tourer capable of handling mixed pavement and light off-road terrain.
Built for: A 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 for: Not ideal for riders seeking sharp sportbike handling or lightweight agility in tight city traffic.

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

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 840mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 1997 BMW R 1100 GS, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 degrees and a slightly forward 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: 1085.0 ccm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6750 RPM
Torque: 97.0 Nm (9.9 kgf-m)
Engine type: Boxer
Power/weight ratio: 0.3670 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 99.0 x 70.5 mm
Compression: 10.3:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft

Performance

Top speed: 200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1509 mm
Seat height: 840 mm
Dry weight: 218.0 kg
Wet weight: 248.5 kg
Fuel capacity: 25.00 litres
Ground clearance: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 190 mm
Rear wheel travel: 200 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 305 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 276 mm
Front tyre: 110/80-19
Rear tyre: 150/70-R17

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	1994	1995	1997	1998	1999
Capacity	1085 cc	1085 cc	1085 cc	1085 cc	1085 cc
Dry weight	222 kg	222 kg	218 kg	218 kg	218 kg
Seat height	850 mm	850 mm	840 mm	840 mm	840 mm
Fuel capacity	25 L	25 L	25 L	25 L	25 L