K100 and K1100

[bizzaro]

I have often wondered why BMW produced both the K100 and K1100 motorcycles simultaneously when they are so close in size and functional design. Essentially the same. All explanations/considerations welcome. (My apologies if this has been done before)


And when did the K100 go to 4 valve and Paralever drive?


I am considering buying the K100. Pros n cons between the bikes appreciated.

[The Mighty Gryphon]

I suspect that the 4v K100RS was just to provide a way to use a lot of K1 engine/drive line parts.  The increase in HP acheived from the 4v engine was also important in maintaining the performance image of the RS in the face of the Japanese bikes of the era.

I have a 1992 K100RS, and it is my favorite ride.  It's as smooth as my K75 bikes, pulls effortlessly at almost any engine or bike speed, rides and handles well, is comfortable and with the K1100RS fairing lowers looks really nice.  I can't see where there is any difference between it and the later K1100RS other than the 1100 is going to cost a few bucks more.

The only downside is that the RS mirrors and turn signal lenses are no longer available from BMW.

[kioolt]

I believe that the only 4 valve K100's where all K1 and RS models.  I have a 91 K100LT that is a 2 valve model.  I know of no K100LT's that are four valve from the factory.

[Chaos]

Too bad they didn't stick a 12 valve head on the K75, maybe bump it up to 900cc and give it a monolever.  That would have been feckin' cool.

[bizzaro]

And they could call it the K100............ :dunno2:

Or is that the point? :hehehe

[bizzaro]

Anyone guess as to why they produced both the K100 and K1100. Nice bike Gryph.  I am good with a 2 valve bike.......simpler and cheaper to fix! 

[bizzaro]

HMMMM :dunno I thought this would generate more interest and conversation really.  And so I gather most K100's are 2 valve?

[bizzaro]

The only downside is that the RS mirrors and turn signal lenses are no longer available from BMW.

I assume that that is true for the K1100 LT model as well?  They look the same?

[kioolt]

I assume that that is true for the K1100 LT model as well?  They look the same?

The LT mirrors do not have the turn signals in them.  They are different mirror housings for sure. 

[beemrdon]

Different front/same rear