BMW R100 RS

This very early R100RS is showing a genuine 51,476 miles and rides just as well as it did when new almost 50 years ago. I’ve just ridden it, given it a clean and a new set of pictures. It’s a joy, and unusual package of rarity and practicality in a truly historic machine.

This excellent matching-numbers example of the iconic BMW R100RS motorcycle was manufactured in 1976, shortly after the models launch date. This is an early production matching numbers machine, that has known provenance and has led a pampered life with its 3 owners. Equipped with its original 3/4 sports seat, aluminium rimmed, wire spoked wheels, a set of Krauser Starlet panniers and some removable soft storage (From Bob Porecha a renowned BMW specialist) that fits within the fairing, it’s in excellent condition, exhibiting some minor age related patina. The bike has one original BMW folding key, as well as a more recent spare and the tool kit and pump are still under the seat. The iconic original BMW clock still works and keeps good time. The original BMW brochure, Handbook, Technical Service book as well as a vast number of MOT certificates that provide assurance that the recorded mileage is true.

Annual servicing has been undertaken by the last owner, including a recent oil service with Castrol Heritage oil.  A powerful Odyssey PC625 battery was fitted in November 2022 and still provides instant starts as you can see. Additionally, in 2018, (c3,000 miles ago) a full service, as well as replacement fork seals and a replacement clutch were undertaken by a well-known Classic Motorcycle mechanic. The bike is fitted with Keihin stainless steel exhaust system and Avon Road Rider tyres.

When the bike was new, in 1976, the iconic Superbikes of the Seventies book summarised a very positive article on the launch model as follows: “With Honda, Moto Guzzi and Yamaha offering shaft drive, 1,000cc touring machines with dazzling performance figures there is plenty of choice for the mega-buck touring rider. But only BMW still offer a machine that is really different and practical for high speed use as well as having that touch of quiet exclusivity.”

We think that summarises the bike very well and is still valid almost 50 years later.