BMW R100 T (1978-1979) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1978, BMW released the R100 T, a touring motorcycle that replaced the BMW R 100/7 model and intended to attract customers that wanted a comfortable touring machine capable of going the extra mile.

The bike was a fledged touring motorcycle without a full fairing with vast optional accessories from the BMW motorcycle range as a large windscreen and neatly integrated panniers. The BMW R100 T was upgradeable to a fully-fledged touring machine.

The 1978 BMW R100 T was powered by a 980cc flat-twin boxer engine with an output power of 65 hp at 6,600 rpm and 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) of torque available at 5,500 rpm. Coupled to a five-speed manual transmission, the bike reached a top speed of 195 kph (121 mph).

The model came from the factory with standard features such as die-cast aluminum wheels, a chromed dual exhaust system, a dual seat with passenger grab rails, a small luggage rack, a large round headlamp, an analog instrument cluster, and a center stand. With all features installed, the model reached a curb weight of 215 kg (474 lbs).

For suspension, the bike packed a telescopic fork with a hydraulic shock absorber on the front wheel where two 260 mm discs engaged by dual-piston calipers handled the stopping power. The rear end was controlled by a swingarm with twin adjustable shock absorbers and a 200 mm drum brake unit.