| 1977–92 BMW R100RS |
|---|
| Performance |    |
|---|
| I'm not dinging the R100 powerplant for not offering superbike performance (even though it sorta was one in the mid '70s). However, airhead engines are quirky to operate, a bit less friendly than a low-power engine should be. |
|
| Handling | |
|---|
| For being a sophisticated, expensive Grand Touring machine, the RS was a bit deficient in the handling department due to inadequate ground clearance, obvious shaft-jacking and durable but uncooperative suspension parts. |
|
| Looks | |
|---|
| That fairing is still a jaw-dropper, but the rest of the bike doesn't look nearly as racy nor as sophisticated to me now as it did back when it was BMW's flagship. |
|
| Reliability | |
|---|
| BMWs last a long time and many miles, but they have their quirks. |
|
| Practicality | |
|---|
| The RS was the first 'sport touring' bike. Unfortunately, it's too slow and wobbly to be sporty and that cool-looking fairing is too low to provide real protection while touring. The low bars are not ideal with the footpegs, and the seat precludes taking a passenger any distance. |
|
| Desirability | |
|---|
| I claim to like the bike. What I want is another, better bike with that fairing on it. |
