Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1983 BMW R100RS.
Upon its debut in September 1976 at the IFMA show in Cologne, the R100RS wowed the motorcycle world with its elegant styling and futuristic feature set. Penned by Hans A. Muth, it was one of the first bikes to be conceived via a combination of computer-aided-design (CAD) and wind tunnel testing.
Expectedly, then, the fairing proved quite unusual for the time. In contrast to existing options that were ungainly, poor-fitting, or something of an afterthought, that of the RS was integral to its design. Along with shielding the rider from the elements, it also housed a fully-contained cockpit. BMW kept the same instruments as those found on the R90S, relocating the ignition switch to position it between the clock and voltmeter.
Engine-wise, BMW specced the R100RS with an updated version of its M65 boxer twin. At 980cc in capacity, it made 70hp — enough to take the bike to a top speed in excess of 200kph (124mph). When paired with a firm-yet-forgiving suspension setup and a comfortable sport-style seat, what resulted was a motorcycle ready-made for long days in the saddle. Per a period Cycle World road test: “the uncanny thing about it all is that the only real rush of wind is against your helmet. The machine is as comfortable and secure as if it were running along at the federally posted 55.”
This example has been completely restored and modified to resemble more of the R100S than the RS. The seller states “this has a R100S fairing and styling, except a custom solo short seat and cowl vs the R100S longer two seater set and cowl. While this does still have the same power train, 40mm carbs, it has been styled to look more like the “S” bike than a RS. The battery cavity area is empty and can be run with, or without the side covers for an empty look.” The seller is known for having the first bike to ever be featured on the youtube channel Petrolicious, he has also he’s been featured in several magazine articles for various other BMW builds including Motorcycle Classics, Pipeburn, Shoesup Magazine, and Vikingbags. He is a consumate airhead rider and builder and is well known in the motorcycle community.
This example is VIN: WB1043507D6176364. The seller states “I have owned this bike for 4 years. Purchased it from the second owner in Glendale. I love to restore and maintain BMW motorcycles. This one was a project I rebuilt upon receiving it 4 years ago. I rode it as-is and then did a full engine re-seal due to leaks, timing chain replacement and more. I figured that once I was doing engine work, I should restore the rest of the bike as well. Bike can be returned to stock with a stock seat and rear fender, or leave it as-is. It runs and handles great. I have a 1977 model that I am more emotionally attached to however this is a much better bike to ride due to fork improvements and modifications between those year bikes. I have an aftermarket side stand for it that is not attached. I have touch up paint, the original air box, and a few other odds and ends.”
The odometer shows 16,228 miles, however the true mileage is unknown. The seller states “the speedometer looks to have been rebuilt in the 1990’s so I can’t say what the actual mileage is on it. There’s a sticker inside the speedo cluster that states it was rebuilt.” The seller has covered approximately 1,000 miles during his ownership.
Maintenance:
The seller states “New timing chain. New oil and rear main seal. heads inspected and cylinders ok. Re-sealed top end. New fluids. New bearings everywhere for swingarm, wheels, and steering. Greased splines on wheel and transmission. New rubber throughout the bike. Tires are new Bridgestones from 2024 with less than 1000 miles on them.”
Modifications:
The seller states “Reinforced swing arm. Hoske Mufflers. Custom seat but fits on stock subframe. Koni rebuilt shocks by Icon (I have receipt). Crank fired electronic ignition by Euro Moto Electrics. Custom starter cover. S fairing added to match gunmetal gray powder coat. Telefix fork brace, and anti dive springs internally in the forks. Stainless brake lines to front caliper. Custom license plate holder. Tail lights also double as turn signal lights. The holes for luggage racks have been filled on the subframe and the frame for a cleaner look.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT46F tires with date codes of 3323 and 0624.
The sale includes one key, OEM gas tank cover, aftermarket Kickstand, air-box, and various additional parts. Please note: the seller has stated that there is currently no horn installed but he is including one with the sale and the bike is already wired for the horn.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Ventura, California, this BMW is offered on a clean California title with registration that is currently PNO and will cost $150 to bring current through January 2026.
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