**1984-1993 BMW K100: A Symphony of Engineering and Performance**
**Introduction**
The BMW K100, a groundbreaking motorcycle that debuted in 1983, revolutionized the touring motorcycle segment with its innovative design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance. This four-cylinder, in-line engine masterpiece quickly gained a reputation as a reliable, versatile, and exhilarating machine.
**Design and Engineering**
The K100's design embodies BMW's unwavering commitment to innovation. Its distinctive "Flying Brick" fairing, crafted from lightweight and durable fiberglass, optimizes aerodynamics while providing ample protection from the elements. The fairing seamlessly integrates the round headlight, providing a striking and aerodynamically efficient profile.
At the heart of the K100 lies its technologically advanced engine. The 987cc, four-cylinder, air-cooled engine features an advanced fuel injection system and four valves per cylinder, ensuring optimal power delivery, fuel efficiency, and emissions reduction.
Complementing the engine is a sophisticated suspension system. The Telelever front suspension, unique to BMW motorcycles, separates the steering and suspension functions, resulting in precise handling and reduced dive under braking. The Paralever rear suspension utilizes a single-sided swingarm with a horizontally mounted shock absorber, providing excellent stability and ride comfort.
**Performance and Handling**
The K100's potent engine delivers an exhilarating and responsive riding experience. Its smooth power delivery and linear torque curve provide effortless acceleration and passing power. The motorcycle's well-balanced chassis and precise handling inspire confidence and agility in various riding conditions, from tight corners to sweeping highways.
**Versatility and Ergonomics**
Beyond its performance capabilities, the K100 excels in versatility. Its spacious and comfortable seat, along with adjustable handlebars and a generous luggage capacity, make it an ideal touring machine. The motorcycle's low center of gravity and upright riding position enhance comfort and control, even on extended journeys.
**Legacy and Impact**
The BMW K100 left an indelible mark on the motorcycle industry. Its innovative design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance established a new benchmark for touring motorcycles. Its introduction of the Telelever and Paralever suspension systems set the stage for future BMW motorcycle designs.
Today, the K100 remains a highly sought-after classic among motorcycle enthusiasts. Its timeless design, legendary reliability, and unmatched riding experience continue to inspire riders and collectors alike.
The BMW K100 is a family of four-cylinder 987 cc motorcycles that were manufactured by BMW from 1983 to 1992.
Various models of the K100 were produced.
K100, with no fairing.
K100RS, with sports fixed fairing and lower bars.
K100RT, with full fairing for 'road touring'.
K100LT, with a higher screen and additional equipment as standard for 'Luxury Touring'.
All models have dual front, and single rear disk brakes. The RS model has a longer gear ratio than other models.[3]
The K-series offered additional refinements including: all stainless steel exhaust, rust-resistant aluminium fuel tank (although tanks do rust at the low points on right and left sides), anti-lock brakes or ABS on later-year models, adjustable headlight, high capacity 460 watt alternator, Hella accessory plug-in, self cancelling signal lights.
The engine has its four cylinders arranged so that the crankshaft is on the right-hand side of the motorcycle, with the cylinder heads, camshafts, injectors and spark plugs on the left-hand side. This arrangement keeps the centre of gravity relatively low, which benefits handling; and the space behind the front wheel available for the radiator.
In addition, since the crankshaft is now on the right-hand side, access to the engine becomes much easier than in a conventional design, where the crankshaft is at the bottom. BMW preferred a shaft-drive for smoothness, and a single-sided hollow swing arm enclosing the drive shaft provided right side drive through the gearbox and to the rear wheel. The 4-into-1 all stainless steel exhaust exited on the left hand side.
Brakes were twin-pot Brembo onto undrilled discs. Two different forks manufactures were used: Showa with an outer upper tube diameter of 1.612 in (41 mm) and Fichtel and Sachs measuring 1.627 in (41 mm). In later models, the standard swingarm was replaced with a Paralever just as on the K1.
