BMW K100 RS (1988-1989) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1988, the German motorcycle manufacturer released the BMW K100 RS, a sports touring motorcycle that debuted in 1983. Until 1988, the bike remained unchanged, delivering the same features and specifications as previous models.

In addition to the base and RS models, the maker released other versions, such as the K100 C with a small cockpit fairing mounted on the handlebar, the K100 RT with a full touring fairing, the K100 LT with a taller windscreen and luxury touring equipment, and K100 TIC designed for Police, Ambulance, Fire, and Military departments.

The 1988 model packed the same standard fittings as the previous model, like a half fairing with a rectangular headlight, a windscreen with a small wind deflector mounted on top, a one-piece dual seat, a single muffler mounted on the left-hand side, a center stand, and eight-spoke alloy wheels.

The 1988 BMW K100 RS had its heartbeat set by a 987cc four-stroke liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine mounted underneath its fuel tank, boasting 90 hp at 8,000 rpm and 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) torque at 8,250 rpm.

A five-speed cable-operated manual transmission sucked the power from the engine and sent it to the rear end via a final shaft drive, launching the motorcycle to a top speed of 220 kph (136 mph).

From top speed to a complete halt, the bike relied on two 285 mm brake discs and two-piston calipers mounted on the front wheel and a 285 mm brake disc with a single-piston caliper mounted on the rear wheel.