BMW K1 (1988-1989) Specs, Performance & Photos

The BMW K1 was a sport touring motorcycle manufactured by BMW from 1988 to replace the BMW K100 and produced until 1993. From 1988 to 1993, the maker manufactured over 6,900 units.

When released, the bike created a controversial discussion in motorcyclist circles about the sophisticated aerodynamic body concept down to the last detail, which started from the almost wholly covered front wheel to the rear end with a passenger seat cover.

In the visual department, the bulky machine was characterized by standard fittings, such as a full fairing with a large rectangular headlight, a small windscreen, a sizeable front fender that covered almost half of the wheel, a side stand, and three-spoke alloy wheels.

The bike was built around a steel frame that housed a suspension system comprised of a telescopic fork on the front and a Paralever system on the rear, providing optimum suspension performance and handling.

As for the braking power, the bike's wheels were fitted with two 305 mm brake discs on the front and a 285 mm brake disc on the rear. The front discs were squeezed by four-piston calipers, while the rear one was engaged by a single-piston caliper.

In the performance department, the 1988 BMW K1 had hidden a 987cc four-stroke liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine underneath its fairing, boasting 100 hp at 8,000 rpm and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) torque at 6,750 rpm.