Ever since they introduced the R100RS, BMW has arguably invented and managed to stay at the top of the sport-touring bike segment. In the mid 80s, BMW wanted a bike that wouldn’t use the famous boxer engine. In fact, BMW was scared that the customers would get bored of the boxer, and without any other alternative in the BMW line, would look to the competition. The result was an inline 4-cylinder – but unlike other manufacturers, the motor would be implemented lengthwise. After a few years of prototypes and tests, the K100 was presented in 1983.
When released, the bike was just equipped with a simple small fairing that gave it a very “roadster” look. Starting in 1986, the K100LT emerged as a full tourer with much bigger fairings, giving it a bit of a Goldwing-ish vibe. Even though critics were pleased, BMW’s typical customers were shocked and struggled to like the new engine – comparable to how Porsche fans reacted with they started to release cars with engines in the front. Nevertheless, BMW kept some of their traditional mechanical particularities like the shaft drive and the flat configuration of the cylinders. The big 90 hp, 987cc engine and its position on the bike resulted in a very low center of gravity with good balance on the bike which permitted good handling. Despite 558 lbs of weight, the bike was still capable of reaching 132 mph. The K100 also has earned a reputation for reliability, with man examples still running strong with over 150,000 miles on the odometer. Motorcyclespecs has a very interesting article about the bike and its specs, make sure you check it out.
This is a nice example of the K100 in the color of Champagne. It’s said to be all original and it comes with the trunk and side cases. Since the owner bought it, he has performed lots of regular maintenance and added many improvements such as new brake lines, brake pads, clutch, rear shocks, etc…the bike also got a Bluetooth JVC radio and custom Corbin seat in the past. With only 46k miles, this K100 bike is only at the beginning of its life. Find this BMW K100LT in Walnut Creek, California here on Craigslist for $2,950.