Post-Sale Update: This K1 sold for $3,548 after 27 bids on eBay.
This bike gives me pause – I really enjoy the 80s looks, but I’m pretty sure the paint job just gave me a headache as I looked through the photos.
Despite weighing over 600 pounds, the aerodynamic bodywork enables this 95 hp bike to top 140mph. It was the first implementation of BMW’s Paralever suspension system, their second-generation rear driveshaft technology, which reduced the shaft-jacking occasionally present on the first generation K’s. Unfortunately, there were some flaws. The two biggest ones were an absolutely abysmal turning radius, and a serious buildup of heat due to the size of the plastic fairings. Some riders reported nearly having their thighs burned when the cooling fans would turn on at stoplights. Flaws or not, the bike definitely brought plenty of attention to BMW, and cemented public opinion that BMW was capable of building more than boxer-engined touring bikes. Think of it as the great-grandfather of the S1000RR, and an incredible styling experiment. Still, less than 7,000 models were sold, and it wasn’t a sales success.
This example (VIN: WB1053507L6365186) has 14,412 miles and it’s claimed to be un-restored. With that said, the tires should be replaced, the seat is showing some age, and it looks like some body panels have been repainted. The seller starts the bike and rides it occasionally, and he says that it ‘runs and rides well.’ Find this K1 for sale in Chicago, Illinois with bidding up to $2,001 and the reserve not yet met