If you follow such things – and you should, as it is absolutely crazy, you know that the participants for the 2017 Dakar Rally are already either in or on their way to Argentina. Formerly the Paris-Dakar Rally, it was first run in 1978 as a rally from Paris through France and Spain, across to Africa, through the Moroccan mountains and deserts and ending in Dakar, Senegal. It has long been considered the ultimate endurance event for cars, bikes, quads and even trucks. In 2008 the event was cancelled due to security issues in Africa, and the event was subsequently relocated to South America. In recent years the route has included Chile, Bolivia, Peru and Argentina. This year it will again be Argentina and Bolivia, starting Jan 2. Set your DVR’s!
Both auto and motorcycle manufacturers who have had some success in the Dakar has produced commemorative vehicles. Here is one, a 1993 BMW R100GS Paris Dakar.
It is essentially the standard R100GS of the time,tarted up to look very macho with bash plates and crash bars all around. Not sure how macho that turquoise paint job was…The engine was the stock 5-speed, 60HP boxer twin.
Of course, the reality is that this GS, like most recent ones, spend the majority of their time on the street, and they do make great touring platforms. As such, they are equipped with extras like bags, and heated grips, both of which are included on this bike.
This bike also has an aftermarket exhaust and the seller is throwing in some extras like a set of tires and all the original equipment and some new decals. The bike is showing fairly high mileage at over 91K. It would be wise to see how much service history the owner has – maybe he can explain those “shorty” levers.
If you’re interested, this GS is available for $5,200. There are lots more pictures and info on this R100GS here on Craigslist in Athens, Georgia. It is also listed on Vintage Werkes.