1997 BMW R1100R

The 1997 BMW R 1100 R is one of the most sought after two-wheelers in its class, thanks to fittings such as a dual seat, pillion grab rails, die-cast aluminium wheels, dual front disc brakes, a single disc brake in the rear, a suspension package composed of a BMW Motorrad Telelever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension unit, an analogue instrument cluster and a high-mounted exhaust system.
*Overal
Often overlooked as a new machine, BMW's R1100R now makes tons of sense as a used bike. It’s the naked version of BMW’s twin cylinder ‘Boxer’ – undoubtedly their best range of motorcycles at the time. The R1100R is an incredibly versatile machine that does anything well except high speed work and track days
*Ride quality & brakes
The BMW R1100R's Telelever front suspension takes some getting used to but works extremely well once you are. Paralever rear minimized the effects of the shaft drive and the motorcycle handles well in a smooth, slow turning manner – but don’t think it can’t hustle if required. Brakes are reasonable and ABS is handy where fitted. Great round town – and popular with couriers as a result.
*Engine
Charming, simple and torquey or an underpowered antique with an atrocious. The BMW R1100R is both so whether you’ll enjoy it depends on whether you’re a glass-half-full person. The air/oil cooled twin’s not hugely changed since the 1950s. Vibey at low revs but with plenty of midrange.
*Reliability & build quality
Apart from couriered examples, the BMW R1100R seems to get an easier life than most used BMWs. They don’t seem to rack up the huge mileages or get used in winter as often as their stablemates. The R1100R is still up to these feats though. Dealers, official and unofficial are excellent.