1996 BMW R 100 GS Specs & Review

The 1996 BMW R 100 GS is a classic air‑cooled boxer adventure bike built for riders who value simplicity, durability, and real‑world performance over flashy electronics. If you’re considering a tough, long‑legged machine for mixed roads and light trails, the 1996 BMW R 100 GS specs paint a very convincing picture.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 980 cc
• Engine: Air-cooled 4-stroke boxer twin, OHV, 2 valves/cylinder
• Power: 60 hp (44 kW) @ 6,500 rpm
• Torque: 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 3,750 rpm
• Transmission/Final Drive: 5-speed, dry single-plate clutch / Shaft (Paralever)
• BMW R 100 GS weight: 210 kg (unladen, full tank)
• BMW R 100 GS seat height: 850 mm (33.5 in)
• Top speed: 181 km/h (112 mph)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the R 100 GS is a 980 cc air‑cooled boxer twin with OHV and two valves per cylinder, fed by 2x Bing 40 mm CV carburetors and sparked by an electronic (Bosch) contactless ignition. The bore x stroke of 94.0 x 70.6 mm and an 8.5:1 compression ratio deliver a characterful, torquey response that shines in everyday riding. Peak figures are 60 hp (44 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 76 Nm (56 lb‑ft) at 3,750 rpm, which translates into strong midrange pull for overtakes and relaxed cruising without constant downshifts.

On the highway, the boxer settles into a calm rhythm, with a claimed top speed of 181 km/h (112 mph) available when you’ve got room to stretch its legs. In the city, that low‑to‑mid torque makes the GS tractable and friendly, and the 5‑speed gearbox paired with a dry single‑plate clutch keeps shifts deliberate and mechanical. The shaft final drive with BMW’s Paralever is built for longevity and stability, and the wet‑sump lubrication keeps things robust on long stints. A Bosch 280 W alternator supports the bike’s electrical needs without fuss.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 100 GS Seat Height

Ergonomics are upright and relaxed, with the BMW R 100 GS seat height listed at 850 mm (33.5 in). Taller riders will feel right at home, while shorter riders may need to plan stops carefully. At low speeds, the BMW R 100 GS weight of 210 kg (unladen, full tank) is noticeable, but the boxer’s low mass centralization helps balance. Once moving, that weight contributes to stability over broken pavement and gravel.

The chassis uses a double‑loop tubular steel frame with a bolt‑on rear subframe, a 1514 mm wheelbase, and cross‑spoke tubeless rims. Suspension travel is generous: a telescopic fork with 225 mm up front and a Paralever monoshock with 180 mm out back. Combined with 200 mm of ground clearance and a 90/90‑21 front tire plus a 130/80‑17 rear, the GS is confident on rough backroads and easy trails. Overall dimensions are 2290 x 1000 x 1165 mm (L x W x H), giving the bike a commanding footprint that feels planted on the open road.

Equipment & Features

Braking is straightforward and period‑authentic: a single 285 mm front disc with a 2‑piston caliper and a 200 mm rear drum. It’s adequate for measured riding and suits the bike’s analog character. The fuel system is simple and serviceable, with those 2x Bing 40 mm CV carburetors, while the electronic (Bosch) contactless ignition adds reliability. A 24 L (6.3 US gal) fuel capacity supports long days between stops, and the Bosch 280 W alternator keeps the essentials energized. Other notable details include the shaft final drive (Paralever), wet‑sump lubrication, and cross‑spoke tubeless rims for a strong yet serviceable wheel setup.

Who Is the 1996 BMW R 100 GS For?

This GS suits riders who want a rugged, mechanical adventure bike that blends on‑road composure with gravel‑road capability. Experienced riders will appreciate the torque‑rich engine, long‑travel suspension, and simple maintenance. For commuting, the tractable power and upright stance reduce fatigue, while the 24 L tank enables easy weekend touring. True beginners may find the combination of an 850 mm seat height and a 210 kg full‑tank weight challenging, but confident novices who value classic engineering could still make it work with practice.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a BMW R 100 GS review in a sentence: it’s an honest, long‑legged classic that rewards smooth inputs and steady adventure miles. Strengths include the torquey boxer, robust shaft/Paralever drive, generous suspension travel, and excellent fuel capacity. The chassis feels stable and predictable, and the cross‑spoke tubeless rims plus a 21‑inch front underline its gravel competence.

Weaknesses? Braking hardware is modest, and the seat height and weight won’t suit everyone. Still, judged by the 1996 BMW R 100 GS specs and its purpose, it remains a compelling choice for riders who value simplicity, durability, and character over gadgetry.

FAQ

• Is the 1996 BMW R 100 GS good for beginners? It can be, but the 850 mm seat height and 210 kg unladen, full‑tank weight may challenge smaller or brand‑new riders. The friendly 76 Nm torque delivery helps, but most true beginners may prefer something lighter and lower.

• What is the seat height of the 1996 BMW R 100 GS? The BMW R 100 GS seat height is 850 mm (33.5 in).

• How heavy is the 1996 BMW R 100 GS? The BMW R 100 GS weight is 210 kg unladen with a full tank.

• What is the top speed of the 1996 BMW R 100 GS? The claimed top speed is 181 km/h (112 mph).

• What are the tire sizes on the 1996 BMW R 100 GS? Front tire is 90/90‑21, and rear tire is 130/80‑17.