1981 BMW R100CS

The 1981 BMW R100CS marks a high point of late-twentieth-century German engineering, blending BMW’s traditional "Airhead" boxer twin design with a sportier, lightweight profile. Its exceptional speed and mechanical refinement, courtesy of the 980cc powerplant made it the fastest production motorcycle in the BMW lineup at the time of its release.

This example was originally purchased at Iron Horse BMW in Tucson in May of 1981. The second, and current owner bought it in 1999.

Historical Significance & Evolution

  • The Airhead Legacy: The R100CS (Classic Sport) belongs to the celebrated line of air-cooled, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder motorcycles that defined BMW's post-war identity, optimized for riders demanding both sport performance and touring durability.

  • Transitional Innovation: The 1981 model year marked a pivotal technical transition for BMW. This iteration notably introduced a factory electronic ignition system, replacing older points-type setups to improve overall reliability and ease of maintenance.

  • Collector Verification: Because base R100 models were frequently modified with aftermarket fairings to mimic the CS, authenticity is critical today. Genuine USA-market models can be verified by the last 7 digits of the VIN, which fall strictly between 6188001 and 6188170.

Production Run

1981–1984 (The 1981 model year introduced key electronic upgrades)

Special Attribute

Fastest production BMW motorcycle at launch

Authentication

USA-market VIN range: 6188001 through 6188170

Technical Specifications


Engine & Powertrain

  • Engine Type: 980cc air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed boxer two-cylinder (pushrod OHV, two valves per cylinder)

  • Performance: 70 horsepower @ 7,000 RPM and 56 lb-ft of torque @ 6,000 RPM

  • Fuel Delivery: Dual 40mm Bing constant velocity (CV) carburetors

  • Drivetrain: 4-speed manual gearbox with a low-maintenance enclosed shaft final drive

Chassis & Performance

  • Suspension: Steel frame utilizing 36mm hydraulic telescopic front forks and dual adjustable rear shocks

  • Braking System: Premium dual 260mm Brembo front discs and a mechanical 200mm rear drum brake

  • Curb Weight: 206 kg to 220 kg (455 lbs dry to 485 lbs wet)

  • Aesthetics & Styling: Distinctive cockpit/bikini fairing housing a round headlight, clock, and voltmeter; hand-painted pin striping and multi-spoke aluminum wheels

  • Top Speed: 200 km/h (124 mph)

Full List of Bikes