BMW K bikes (Bricks)


You are not connected. Please login or register

Go to page : 1, 2  Next

View previous topic View next topic Go down  Message [Page 1 of 2]


1Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:00 am

ArbOl

ArbOl
active member
active member
Greetings all from a London newbie.

Let's face it, K bikes are an aquired taste and without wishing to offend, you need advice from those who know and love them before taking ownership.

As flying brick http://www.flyingbrick.de/ says, the K is a 'modern and classic', just what I'm looking for - an affordable classic for occassional 100mile trips and short commuting, which has that essential quality, character.

But just how 'characterful' is it? Can anything called an appliance which sounds like a black and decker, has barge like handling and a buzz inducing inline 4 be enough to sustain interest in more than its engineering quality? (said I didn't mean to offend!)

The ones for sale in these parts seem to by owners who advertise their bomb proof reliability rather than desirability.

I'm not in the fortunate positon of inhereting a well cared for example, but would appreciate any thoughts from the K cognoscenti on how easy they are to live with.

After being a despatch rider in the 80s I have fond memories of the cx500 and now have a Triumph Thruxton. The pre '86 smoke red 100rs boxer is a thing of real beauty, but the narrow bars, agricultural feel and inflated proces are offputting. Somehow an 86 K100rs makes more sense.

Without coming over all Oprah, it feels like a life changing event. For the blissfully unaware fiance also!

    

2Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:27 am

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
They are addictive and you will probably end up with a bad case of Kpox but go ahead you will hate you will love it but you will always want to ride it.
They aren't the best bike on the market but the best 20 year old bike you will ever get. Under no circumstances go to the dealer they are waiting for you and will rob you. To be really worth while owning one you need to be able to do most of the work on it your self using parts sourced from those who don't have a vested interest in becoming millionairs solely at your expence.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

3Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:59 am

charlie99

charlie99
VIP
VIP
welcome arboi

...the k 100 is a tourer not a scooter

if you have other ideas , you better be prepared to, strip it down (throw the fairings away ) ...grow longer and stronger legs, be a magician with electrics and be prepared to do some of your own work (to save money ) or look for another bike .

having said that, there is tons of power, not at all ever in a compromising situation on the highway and capable of gobbling up enormous distances comfortably and predictably .

our loves are 20 plus years old and unfortunatly suffer from corrosion in the electrics (inherant in any modern design electronically controlled ignition system - without all the latest sealed connectors that manufactureres have had to resort to implementing )

given that you dont ride like a maniac (even if you do ) things last well with the right kind of maintenance and care .

(still cant believe the low killometers covered by most folks tyres ...mine seem to last really well )

our old girls instill a group comeraderie and appreciation of some of the finer things i have experienced to date and the forum members contributions here, prove many think likewise ....(onya blokes ! one and all )

just a heads up ,,,,i'm "grandpa spec" ...but feel 19 again when i'm riding my K ,

good luck !



Last edited by charlie99 on Sat Nov 24, 2012 2:36 pm; edited 1 time in total


__________________________________________________
cheezy grin whilst riding, kinda bloke ....oh the joy !!!! ...... ( brick aviator )

'86 K100 RT..#0090401 ..."Gerty" ( Gertrude Von Clickandshift ) --------O%O
'86 k100 rs.. #######..  "Fred " (f(rame) red ) ( Fredrick leichtundschnell ) - -
bits and pieces from many kind friends across the k100 world ...with many thanks ..
1987 k100rs ########   "Red"  - (red sports rs TWB style )
1989 K100rt #009637   "Black Betty"  (naked rt ala Nigel , now sporting an rs main fairing )
    

4Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 9:22 am

nino

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
You can love it or hate it, but K is rare kind of bike which could be as new after 25 years. Any problem could be fixed

    

5Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 11:02 am

MT350Explorer

MT350Explorer
Life time member
Life time member
Trying one would really help you make your decison mate.

I would say it wouldn't be my first choice as a London short distance commuter; something smaller, lighter and more nimble would be perhaps? Like Charlie says, it's not a scooter. That said it does have presence and apparently were pretty popular with the despatch bikers? As you'll know you could do 100 miles on any almost bike, maybe you don't need a tourer for that?

Maybe a K75 - less vibes and a bit lighter- and you'd still be welcome here! Very Happy

If you're not ever going to stretch a K100's legs on a longer run you might not see its best side?

Cheers Very Happy
Dave


__________________________________________________
1991 K100 RS 16 valve
    

6Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 11:30 am

gmcq

gmcq
Gold member
Gold member
I have had a R1150RT & R1150RS, would not part from my K. They are no street racer/ plastic fantastic but there is plenty of power and they eat up the miles. I'm not "granda spec" (no offence Charlie Very Happy) but love my K. We also have thick skins so no worries

GMcQ


__________________________________________________
1996 K1100LTIC 0235790
    

7Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 1:48 pm

BadjerJim

BadjerJim
Silver member
Silver member
Welcome to the K-World - or at least dabbling with the idea of getting an older K-bike. I was one of the few journalists that BMW invited to the World Press Introduction of the K-100, at La Napoule, France, in September 1983. I rode the first prototypes in France for just one day, and wrote that up as an article that appeared in the January, 1984 issue of Road Rider Magazine.

Later, I did a long-term test for Cycle News Magazine: over 10,000 miles. At the time, I was unimpressed by the K-100. Profound engine buzz through the handlebars and foot pegs, and overall lack of performance and power compared to other emerging Jap bikes at the time. At the time, I owned a 1984 Kawasaki Ninja 900, and a 1978 Ducati 900SS... so that is where my head was at, at the time. The Ducati was wildly uncomfortable to ride, but had character, and was just amazing in the corners. The Ninja? Stunning in all regards. Incredible power (for the time), smooth engine, great suspension, and effective anti-dive brakes. The K-100 offered none of that, yet at about 50% more in retail price.

In the Cycle News article, I panned the K-100. Why? All the above. This was supposed to be the 'next generation' BMW, yet offered none of the latest technology of the other brands of bikes, and had a footpeg buzz that would put your feet to sleep. And limited power. And on and on. BMW was very pissed off with that article, yet ultimately quoted me in a 2-page ad that they ran in all the cycle magazines: "In the words of Cycle News: A Gentleman's Motorcycle, just like the BMWs that preceded it."

Flash forward to now: 2 years ago, I happened across a 1985 K-100RT, full service records, mint condition. I remembered all the things the K-Bike did Right, and how it might be right for me, now at age 55. About 60K miles on the clock. I took the bike for a ride. Wow.

Modern brake pads, good tires, meticulous tune-up and maintenance, and... there was none of the vibration buzz that I remembered. Power was more than adequate, now that I was no longer a young canyon-carving Kamikaze in search of that ultra-last-bit of performance. I bought the bike.

What do I have now? When introduced as a 1985 model, I thought the K-100RT was german-frumpy in its styling. Yet in 27 years, it has aged very well, and looks contemporary to those who don't read cycle magazines every month. (Like when the Porsche 928 was first introduced, most hated the styling, but now it looks very modern.)

I have a 27 yr old motorcycle with full service records, and all faults are known (thanks to this forum). Except for bodywork, all parts are available as new (maybe through eBay), and most are on the shelf at my local dealer (unless I need something stupid like a piston). Yes, I still have some work to do to overcome some initial design faults on that first-year K-Bike (like gas tank gets too hot in summer weather).

My total investment? Less than $3,000 USD. And this, for a (I consider) a stone-reliable touring bike that me and the wife can take for a ride any time. IF there's a problem on the road, BMW dealers will look at this with a nod and a smile, and probably have the parts to fix it. That alone takes the value far beyond the purchase price.

So ask yourself: Classic styling that transcends time. Great reliability. Simple maintenance. Parts available everywhere, at reasonable prices (compared to modern bikes). Great support network, via this forum (Instant response from Inge, and great spares available from RJTrucker and others). Modern tires and brake pads available now, that truly show the capabilities of the original frame and suspension design.

If none of this matters to you... please go buy a brand new motorcycle that suits your needs. But don't be at all surprised when even the most basic parts are hard to find, or not available in 5 years.

    

8Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 2:30 pm

K-BIKE

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
Wouldn't be without mine still looks great and it is surprising how many people are impressed by it's appearance when they either see it or a photo, it is a true design classic that is fun to ride. Also for a 20+ year old bike they are incredibly reliable.
Regards,
K-BIKE

    

9Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 4:03 pm

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
Until 2 months ago, I was the proud owner of 2 K bikes (K100 and K75).
The K75 has over 265K on the clock, the K100 110k.
What did I do? I bought another K100. This latest one has an EML sidecar.
I was in the market for a chair for almost a year. Being flexible, I even looked at Japanese bike like Gold Wings.
When I found the K100-EML, this was exactly the bike that I was looking for.
The first reason was that the frame of the K100 had been re-engineered and it is a very secure design (Some will say overbuilt)
The second reason was because of the performances and ease (and affordability) to maintain or repair a K100.
The performance is not about row power as the K100 is only 90bhp. It's about the torque available at a wide range of RPM. Even with the sidecar weighing over 300lbs, I can ride at 2,500rpm in 5th gears and when I open the throttle, the engine will start to pull again without the need to shift down. (I call the bike 'da beast' or 'the ox')
Vibration and buzzing is minimal on the foot pegs and non existent on the handle bar. The simple addition of bar weights will solve most of the problems.
The K100 has modern features like electronic fuel injection and electronic ignition without the need of all the sensors and computers installed on more modern bikes.
As Jim said, parts are available everywhere.
To relate to Jim post, when he was testing the K100, it was the very first ones (1984 models) and BMW implemented modifications to correct the early problems.

We all seem to be a bunch of passionate on this forum, and there is a good reason for it. We really enjoy the bike.

I come back from visiting a friend who has a K100rt and just bought a brand new r1200rt fully loaded. He loves the new bike but he also told me that he's missing the character of the K100.

Oh, by the way, if you have the opportunity to watch cycling races like 'the tour de France', you will notice that the bike of choice for the media and course marshals is still the K100. These people can afford newer motorcycles, but why do they prefer a 27 years old one?



Last edited by Crazy Frog on Sat Nov 24, 2012 5:02 pm; edited 1 time in total


__________________________________________________
To K or not to K? Frog15To K or not to K? Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

10Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 4:47 pm

Halo

Halo
Life time member
Life time member
Summed up just right CF


__________________________________________________
84 K100RS 0014803
93 FZR1000 EXUP
    

11Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 7:51 pm

Comberjohn

Comberjohn
Life time member
Life time member
Maybe it's as simple as you reach a point in life when you just don't give a rap about what other people think.
I went out today on my 28 year old RT for a quick 60 mile trip. The roads were greasy, temperature 4 or 5C and didn't see any other bikes. But I really enjoyed myself and found it so satisfying.
Gave it a quick wash and back in the shed.
It's not a trailer queen but it's not tatty either. It's just so all round practical.
In the past, I have just got on it and done a 500 mile day without a thought.
They aren't especially good at any one thing and it does take a while to grow on you.
I sold my 89 LT this time last year because I thought it was time to go modern. Tried all types of newer bikes including Harley and the R1200RT. All great bikes but ended up with my 84 RT with 30k miles for moped money and now I'm a happy bunny again.
Everyone has their own reasons, but, you have been warned, they can be addictive.

http://www.johnsdrivingschool.co
    

12Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:23 pm

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
The answer lies in many places.

ComberJohn will remember our weekend trip to Antrim in September...My tally from Friday morning to Sunday evening was 880 miles in total. I got home feeling fresh and deeply satisfied after a great weekend. Whether it was motorway running or back roads the K just keeps going. comfortable, effortless, torque in abundance. I put almost 4,000 miles on it in two months......

Its not about performance, its about the balance of power, handling and power delivery.The handling is actually surprising. Most certainly it is not barge like....a lot more nimble than would appear.

Its addictive, I looked at many bikes before it and happy I made the right choice. Yes, you need to know something about bikes/engines etc but this website is so helpful and the bikes are like meccano, they come apart easily. We guys in Ireland have it turned into something of a social thing as we meet up from time to time.

My son likes his bikes, he was looking at a Fireblade some months back, then he sat up on the K. Up to then he had seconded my brothers comment 'a pipe and slippers bike' [he has an S1000RR] but when he tried the K he said 'I could like this'. I thought to myself...'get your own'!!!

The K will not be worth so much that SWMBO will make you sell it! It needs a few things from time to time, so she will know where you are. They dont turn loads of heads so she wont be worried about young ones chasing you. If you introduce your K buddies she will conjure up images of Irish Eccentrics of varying shapes and sizes and happily leave you alone in peace.

But she will always end up wondering where you got that smug smile on your face when you get home after a 250 mile run.

92KK



Last edited by 92KK K100LT 193214 on Mon Nov 26, 2012 5:46 am; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : Handling!!)


__________________________________________________
1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

13Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:34 pm

JR_K100RS

JR_K100RS
Life time member
Life time member
G'day ArbOI , quite simply , having owned my thing since new would I do it over again ? , the answer would be yes , the one kicker would be that I would buy a 16V version , not for the engine but for the other bits , wider rims ( better tyre choice ) better brakes , handling ( paralever rear and upgraded forks )

Good Luck with it !

JR

Melbourne Australia


__________________________________________________
Diamond Grey ( 617 ) 1987 K100RS ( European Delivery ) Original owner
    

14Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 8:37 pm

Ed

Ed
Life time member
Life time member
I'm hooked... Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy Very Happy


__________________________________________________
1993 K1100RS  0194321         Colour #690 Silk Blue  aka " Smurfette"
2018 Kart upgrade.
To K or not to K? 10_x_110
    

15Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 9:17 pm

blaKey

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
Jump on.
Go for a ride.
Ride around with a big grin on your face.
I love my bike!


__________________________________________________
Neil
K100RS 1986 RED!

Dress for the ride and the potential slide.
    

16Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 10:44 pm

klompy the grey brick

klompy the grey brick
VIP
VIP
I have been riding since 1974 and had a dozen different bikes and this is the only one I tinker with because I want to...every single nut screw and washer is viewable on the net and purchaseable as well....and not as expensive as you would think....as a matter of fact it is a forum sport of getting the job done as innovatively and inexpensively as possible...and then sharing that knowledge...I could not imagine any other bike being so worshipped.

Slowly but surely I am getting to know the ole girl and so far nothing has been insurmountable.....



Last edited by Klompy the grey brick on Sat Nov 24, 2012 10:45 pm; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : speilinghg)


__________________________________________________
KKlompy To K or not to K? 2854237993
"Grace" 1984 K100RS Silver VIN 0019026 Mitt eine Staintune Zorst.
"Olivia" 1997 K1100LT Dark Grey VIN WB1052600W0237453.









Chassis number0019026
Vehicle code0503
SeriesK589
ModelK 100 RS 83 (0502 ( 0503 )
Body typeK 100 RS 83 (0502
Catalog modelECE
Production date1984 / 07
Engine0513)

To K or not to K? Au-log10


    

17Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Nov 24, 2012 10:46 pm

Two Wheels Better

Two Wheels Better
Moderator
Moderator
I rode my '87 K100RS right round the edge of Australia for nine weeks in Winter '10 and didn't so much as have a flat tyre or burn any oil. Otherwise it is my daily ride as I do not own four wheels...well, I do, I have six wheels, but that's three motorbikes.

They may not be 'cool' to some but they're alright by me. My tonque-in-cheek quote to people who ask...and some who don't...They're as reliable as a fridge but not nearly as cool.


__________________________________________________
"A long ride is the answer to a question you will soon forget!" ~ Anonymous
1977 R75/7-100, '93 K11/K12 Big Block, '93 K1100RS, '95 R100 Mystic, '96 K1100RS, 2 x '98 K1200RS, '06 K1200R & '09 K1300GT
    

18Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Mon Nov 26, 2012 4:58 am

Ghost who rides

Ghost who rides
Life time member
Life time member
I didn't really like my K75 for a couple of years and had only bought it 'cos it was cheap . Then i did a couple of longer trips and it started to come together . 800 to 1000 km days including 4 consecutive last year had me hooked , get on and ride, get off at the end of the day feeling good , look back at the bike and think Wow ! Did we just do that ?
Character comes in many forms , Swiss watch like precision is not usually seen as character however it gets my vote now that we've done some big days . Of course i still do short trips but if they were all i did i'd get something smaller and lighter .
Good luck with your decision .

Ps "barge like handling " quote . I do take exception to ...... wrong wrong wrong.!
"pipe and slippers bike " ...yeah , sort of but only if the rider is that too . witness Two Wheels Better account on this forum around OZ, or Charlie99's epic overnighter in the rain just recently ! To give just two examples .



Last edited by Ghost who rides on Mon Nov 26, 2012 5:10 am; edited 1 time in total (Reason for editing : Added Ps.)


__________________________________________________
1986  K 75 C   2nd owner 187,000kms showing .
1987  K100RT  Police repainted, rough and unloved.
    

19Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty To K or not to K Mon Nov 26, 2012 11:50 am

Lazyboy

Lazyboy
Silver member
Silver member
When I look at the new BMW's I start to get all sorts of ideas but the moment I get back on my old K that I have been riding since 12th December 1984 those ideas just all go away !

To K or not to K? 63_30t11


__________________________________________________
1984 BMW K100RT

Bikes Name: Lazyboy
    

20Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Mon Nov 26, 2012 12:12 pm

92KK 84WW Olaf

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
That is one nice K bike. Why would anyone part with it...!!!!


__________________________________________________
1992 K100LT 0193214 Bertha Blue 101,000 miles
1984 K100RT 0022575 Brutus Baja Red 578 bought 36,000 now 89,150 miles
1997 K1100LT 0188024 Wotan Mystic Red 689 58,645 now 106,950 miles Deceased.
1983 K100RS 0011157 Fricka 606 Alaska Blue 29,495 miles Damn K Pox Its a Bat outta Hell Now 58,200 miles. 
1996 K1100LT 0233004 Lohengrin Mystic Red 38,000 miles currently 51,800 miles.
1983 K100RS 0004449 Odette R100 colours 58,000 miles. Sprint fairing now 63,390 miles

Past:
1968 Yamaha 80 YG1
1971 Yamaha 125 YAS-1
1968 Honda 125 SS
1970 Honda CD 175
1973 Honda CB500-4
Honda CX 500
    

21Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Mon Nov 26, 2012 8:27 pm

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
+1 on that it certainly a credit to you Ronnie.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

22Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Thu Nov 29, 2012 7:10 pm

ArbOl

ArbOl
active member
active member
Brilliant, thanks all, esp Badjer, CrazyF. Tour de France camera bike riding behaviour I now understand must be due to sheer 'brick joie de vivre', who cares if a few two wheeled, barbed wire hungry athletes get in the way!

(a dedicated cyclist myself btw)

Have just seen a 60k mile 16v nearby for all of £1,000 (but no MOT).

Question - is the ABS a liability? Apparently this ones abs is 'now fixed' and 'just needs fork seals replaced' to pass the test.

The alternative is an r1150r.

Was out in 5 degree early winter sunshine today, crossing Tower Bridge - motorcycling just seems to get better with every 40 something wrinkle.

    

23Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Thu Nov 29, 2012 7:29 pm

twincarb

twincarb
Life time member
Life time member
I don't think the ABS is a liability, my unit needed sending away to be repaired (thats the controller) which at the end of the day use's 1980's technology so think of real transistors resistors etc. Modern versions which are now found on bikes have a mini computer built into them which runs specific software.

I haven't done many miles since having the ABS sorted out and the principle behind it is simple. There are quite a few people on here who believe that it has assisted them.

I picked my bike up for £500 for 65K 2valve '88 LT all be it in a rather shabby condition and wallowed when shown a bend! changed the fork oil and it sorted that out. She has now had a full strip and is looking more like a proper bike. I use it to commute to work which is 70 miles each way. I also happily jump on her to nip into town or short trips beats using the car and has plenty of space on board for whatever I am doing.

In real world riding I pretty much kept up with a fireblade a couple of months back. That was twisty roads lots of traffic in both directions. Short quick overtakes and filtering...If the roads were clear he would have been able to shoot off. It's about knowing what your bike can and cant do. Saying that I was running late for work today so pushed it a bit made up a lot of time and had a good ride in that I enjoyed.


__________________________________________________
BMW K100LT 1988 Matt Black Peugeot Electra Blue (ELX) Colour is now confirmed...
Yamaha Thundercat
Triumph Spitfire (not a bike but hell it's British chaps)
To K or not to K? 169042To K or not to K? 169034
    

24Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Thu Nov 29, 2012 8:28 pm

GerryP

GerryP
Silver member
Silver member
I've never really regarded a bike as a toy. I wanted something I could use most of the time rather than have to get the car out. I came to BMW fairly early and got my first K in '86 I think. A K75SS. I've ridden K's more or less ever since. I do look at other bikes, even try them occasionally but nothing matches the sheer range of capabilities of the K. I like the ability to fit or remove hard luggage in a minute or so. The cruising range of the fuel tank, The spread of torque. The comfort of the suspension and riding position. The power of the brakes. The ABS. The ability to resist crosswinds. The cornering balance. Its presence on the road. The sound the exhaust makes. The gear indicator. I could go on...

I've owned my current K1100LT for 13 years and in that time its only broken down once. I've replaced the rear master cylinder, the alternator and the rear ABS modulator and had the ABS controller repaired.

Enough. As ever it depends on what you want in a bike. If you want a commuter, a big K is not the best though it will do it and give you somewhere to stow your gear when you arrive. Very Happy


__________________________________________________
Safe riding Cool,
Gerry Parnham


K1100LT (1993) in Silk Blue/Cream
http://gerryparnham.com
    

25Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Thu Nov 29, 2012 8:54 pm

krambo

krambo
Life time member
Life time member
The K felt very ungainly and not very confidence inspiring when I test rode my first K100, however within just a few miles I was starting to quite like it. After about half an hour being followed by its owner in/on his BMW C12 scooter thingy, I was starting to quite like it and even getting the hang of the strange indicator switch arrangement (very odd to me after many years on japanese and british bikes). At this point the K was still up for sale on eBay UK with about 72 hours left to run. I made the vendor an offer for the bike there and then (around the price it was currently on eBay) - he said it would be unfair not to let the auction run to its completion and to add my bids according to how much I had enjoyed the test ride etc. The end result? I bid up to my £800 offer and then someone outbid me with about 2 minutes to go. The bike was eventually knocked down to me for £1000 - within a few minutes of the auction ending, the seller phoned me and said that although I had bid up to £1000 for the bike he would let me have it for the original offer of £800 (including all the spare parts he had in his garage for it) because we had both worked as piano tuners and he really wanted me to have the bike ! He threw in quite a lot of spare bits and a very full service record and I made a new friend that day ! Since then I have covered most of Europe on the old K100 and she is still my preferred ride for bike training and general fun etc. (I am a certified motorcycle instructor here in the UK). Whilst I love my K1100 and my Kawasaki KZ1100 Spectre, the sad truth is that they most often miss out on a ride and I take my trusty K100 every time (nearly). 108,000 miles on the clock as of today and the love affair shows no sign of ending Smile


__________________________________________________
1984 BMW K100RT, 1993 BMW K1100LTIC,1982 Kawasaki KZ1100 Spectre
"Aut viam inveniam aut faciam." To K or not to K? Uk-bmw12
http://www.its-personal.net
    

26Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Thu Nov 29, 2012 10:21 pm

Two Wheels Better

Two Wheels Better
Moderator
Moderator
On this long US ride I'm just now finishing I took my R1150RT (if for no other reason than the K100RS is back down in OZ), and quite often found myself inside my helmet on the longer days comparing the two bike's highlights and idiosyncrasies as I crossed the vast Western plains, rode through crowded stop 'n' go city traffic, compared their luggage carrying capacity, suspension, brakes, smoothness, throttle response, fuel mileage, vibration (the Oilhead RT throbs, the K-RS buzzes, as befitting a multi compared to a twin). In the end I reckon with a few trade-offs, as compared to the refined RT, the Mighty K woulda been perty dern alright doing the same ride, albeit, solo. It passed with flying colours on a nine week OZ perimetre ride two years ago. I'm grateful to have a choice and I do miss my K. Ten months to go, unless I find one here for not much dosh (a reasonable prospect in the Land o' Cheap Bike Prices).


__________________________________________________
"A long ride is the answer to a question you will soon forget!" ~ Anonymous
1977 R75/7-100, '93 K11/K12 Big Block, '93 K1100RS, '95 R100 Mystic, '96 K1100RS, 2 x '98 K1200RS, '06 K1200R & '09 K1300GT
    

27Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 1:18 am

blaKey

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
@ Lazyboy...is that a fuel cooler in front of your radiator?


__________________________________________________
Neil
K100RS 1986 RED!

Dress for the ride and the potential slide.
    

28Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 1:52 am

Lazyboy

Lazyboy
Silver member
Silver member
Hi Blakey , I have sent you a PM with photos , but you can also look under my older posts and you will find a detailed discription of how I did fitted the cooler. It is well worth doing!!


__________________________________________________
1984 BMW K100RT

Bikes Name: Lazyboy
    

29Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 8:33 am

blaKey

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
Thanks Lazyboy!


__________________________________________________
Neil
K100RS 1986 RED!

Dress for the ride and the potential slide.
    

30Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 9:03 am

zonenfeile

zonenfeile
Gold member
Gold member
K is LEGO for adults

go ahead with it


__________________________________________________
ex K1100/2

K- Wiki - or rtfm first

Regards from Hamburg

Olaf
    

31Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 2:49 pm

K-BIKE

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
If I have ever seen a name which belies the truth that is Lazyboy because that bike is magnificent a lot of hard work has gone into that to keep it looking so superb!
Regards,
K-BIKE

    

32Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 4:40 pm

MT350Explorer

MT350Explorer
Life time member
Life time member
ArbOl wrote:Brilliant, thanks all, esp Badjer, CrazyF. Tour de France camera bike riding behaviour I now understand must be due to sheer 'brick joie de vivre', who cares if a few two wheeled, barbed wire hungry athletes get in the way!

(a dedicated cyclist myself btw)

Have just seen a 60k mile 16v nearby for all of £1,000 (but no MOT).

Question - is the ABS a liability? Apparently this ones abs is 'now fixed' and 'just needs fork seals replaced' to pass the test.

The alternative is an r1150r.

Was out in 5 degree early winter sunshine today, crossing Tower Bridge - motorcycling just seems to get better with every 40 something wrinkle.

For comparisson I paid £950 for an 85K 16 valve with with ABS (and a fresh MoT) 12 months ago. Bike needed some work to bring up to standard.
The ABS is not a liabilty in my limited experience - it's not needed for the MoT; mine just passed without functioning ABS. Remove the blue ABS relay beneath the seat and unplug the 'brain' and no error lights come on. It will sail through an MoT in this condition and you can fix at your leisure. Normal braking is unnaffected.
Good Luck
Dave


__________________________________________________
1991 K100 RS 16 valve
    

33Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 8:31 pm

JimK

JimK
Gold member
Gold member
Lazyboy.
Nice ride. That's pleasing to look at.
Welcome.

Others...What is the MOT that you speak of?
Pretty sure that I might have a good idea.

Inspection of roadworthiness by a gov official who has no reason to excel because they have no competition in their work and might look for the littlest thing to fail an inspection so they can show those above them that they have failed more people and thus are "more valuable" than their peers ?

Excuse me....was going on a rant about worthless government employees..but now will hold my water. Surprised

Ow! Who threw that! Smile


__________________________________________________
'89 k100 rs se
    

34Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Fri Nov 30, 2012 10:51 pm

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
Then again Jim he has no vested interest in that he gets paid regardless of you passing or not. Whereas a private inspector may find that if he does not turn a blind eye to some things he doesn't get any more business and doesn't get any pay especially in a small town like the one where I live.
There also must be a way to easily and quick appeal against an unfair decision that is made by a government inspector.
Sometimes I think that an inspection by someone who does not stand to gain or lose by the decision is a good way to have the cars on the road in a safest condition possible.
Where I live we only need to have an inspection when we change ownership of a vehicle but other states have a yearly inspection and one state has no inspections and that state has the worst cars of all. there are some cars that have so much rust that you are in danger of dying of tetanus if you have a crash. No states have a government inspection in Australia it is all done by private accredited inspectors, some are honest and some just take 10 minutes to do the paperwork and collect the $65.
Ultimately we are responsible for our own safety but when factors that are not within my control have an effect on my safety then those people who chose not to maintain their vehicles properly must be forced to do so under threat of law.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

35Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 3:13 am

MT350Explorer

MT350Explorer
Life time member
Life time member
MoT is UK Ministry of Transport test Guys. It is an annual vehicle inspection for cars and bikes over 3 years old.
Cheers
Dave


__________________________________________________
1991 K100 RS 16 valve
    

36Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 4:48 am

blaKey

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
"Excuse me....was going on a rant about worthless government employees..but now will hold my water. Surprised

Ow! Who threw that!Smile
"

I did...a worthless Queensland Government worker! Razz


__________________________________________________
Neil
K100RS 1986 RED!

Dress for the ride and the potential slide.
    

37Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 3:58 pm

Two Wheels Better

Two Wheels Better
Moderator
Moderator
cheers LOL...Blakey, we know your value. :joker:


__________________________________________________
"A long ride is the answer to a question you will soon forget!" ~ Anonymous
1977 R75/7-100, '93 K11/K12 Big Block, '93 K1100RS, '95 R100 Mystic, '96 K1100RS, 2 x '98 K1200RS, '06 K1200R & '09 K1300GT
    

38Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 4:38 pm

sidecar paul

sidecar paul
Life time member
Life time member
MT350Explorer wrote:MoT is UK Ministry of Transport test Guys. It is an annual vehicle inspection for cars and bikes over 3 years old.
Cheers
Dave

But if it was registered before 1960, it doesn't need to be inspected at all (from Nov 12).

Paul.


__________________________________________________
'84 K100RS (0014643) (owned since '85), 86 K100RS (0018891) with Martello sidecar (built as an outfit in '88),
'51 Vincent (since '67),'72 Montesa Cota (from new), '87 Honda RS125R NF4 (bought 2015) 
....No CARS never ever!
    

39Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 7:43 pm

Comberjohn

Comberjohn
Life time member
Life time member
Just to mix things about the MOT.
In mainland UK, the MOT test is carried out by garages who may have a vested interest in failing a bike or car to get a bit of business from simple folk.
In this corner of the UK, N Ireland, the test is carried out by the afore mentioned 'worthless government employees'.
They have no reason to pass or fail the vehicle and would seem to be quite thorough when checking cars and commercial vehicles.
However, bikes only get a cursory going over. If the lights work, the horn beeps and it doesn't leave a puddle of any fluids on the floor, its a quick pass and out the door.
Great if you are trying to get a pass to get some old nail shifted on but if I'm keeping it, I would like to know if something nasty is developing.
But then, it is a K. Lego for adults, I like that.

http://www.johnsdrivingschool.co
    

40Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 8:35 pm

JimK

JimK
Gold member
Gold member
...now just a minute on worthless gov. employees. Very Happy
I wasn't calling anyone on here..that.

Did have an unfortunate time with one last week which obviously colored my comments here.

That was resolved quickly with a call to a pal, attorney who made a call to her boss, who made a call to her and the problem went away quickly. Never should have been an issue to begin with. I have no problem with anyone in the gov doing their job if in a professional manner. Very Happy

Alright...
Jim


__________________________________________________
'89 k100 rs se
    

41Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 8:37 pm

JimK

JimK
Gold member
Gold member
...and thanks for the MOT info.
I guess we all have to jump through some hoops, and I understand what you said and agree with, Rick.


__________________________________________________
'89 k100 rs se
    

42Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 8:42 pm

blaKey

avatar
Life time member
Life time member
No harm done Jim...it's all said in jest!


__________________________________________________
Neil
K100RS 1986 RED!

Dress for the ride and the potential slide.
    

43Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 9:08 pm

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
The reputation doesn't come from nowhere but most are very good and efficient, unfortunately its the bad ones we remember and make jokes about.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

44Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Sat Dec 01, 2012 9:16 pm

Two Wheels Better

Two Wheels Better
Moderator
Moderator
I know Blakey and he's no John Kennedy Evil or Very Mad, but he does have a tough hide like an old Rhino, the longarm reach of the Queensland gubmint :king: behind him , and a powderhorn a metre long that he'll use on anyone what gets within a yard of his sensitive side. :geek:


__________________________________________________
"A long ride is the answer to a question you will soon forget!" ~ Anonymous
1977 R75/7-100, '93 K11/K12 Big Block, '93 K1100RS, '95 R100 Mystic, '96 K1100RS, 2 x '98 K1200RS, '06 K1200R & '09 K1300GT
    

45Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Tue Dec 04, 2012 7:08 pm

Crazy Frog

Crazy Frog
admin
admin
Interesting BMW owner survey from Vintage Mortorcyles online here confirming our feelings about the K bikes. Smile


__________________________________________________
To K or not to K? Frog15To K or not to K? Logo2101986 k75, 1985 K100rt, 1985 K100rt/EML GT2 sidecar, 1999 K1200lt/Hannigan Astro Sport sidecar.
    

46Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Tue Dec 04, 2012 7:33 pm

klompy the grey brick

klompy the grey brick
VIP
VIP
Crazy Frog wrote:Interesting BMW owner survey from Vintage Mortorcyles online here confirming our feelings about the K bikes. Smile

Common problems: Faulty fuel lights, engine heat, low speed vibration and sub-standard rear brake disc performance. Poor resale value in common market.

Common strengths:
Engine power, reliability and fuel mileage, comfort, parts availability and support, styling, durability and handling

Even though only 26 folk surveyed I imagine the results would be the same with thousands surveyed.

I see many K's racing around and whether babied or Rat bikes they just seem unstoppable!!!


__________________________________________________
KKlompy To K or not to K? 2854237993
"Grace" 1984 K100RS Silver VIN 0019026 Mitt eine Staintune Zorst.
"Olivia" 1997 K1100LT Dark Grey VIN WB1052600W0237453.









Chassis number0019026
Vehicle code0503
SeriesK589
ModelK 100 RS 83 (0502 ( 0503 )
Body typeK 100 RS 83 (0502
Catalog modelECE
Production date1984 / 07
Engine0513)

To K or not to K? Au-log10


    

47Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Photos Wed Dec 05, 2012 7:22 am

ArbOl

ArbOl
active member
active member
To K or not to K? K100rs14




To K or not to K? K100rs15


To K or not to K? K100rs16

    

48Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Wed Dec 05, 2012 7:31 am

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
Hmmmm that's one nice RS.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

49Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Wed Dec 05, 2012 7:37 am

ArbOl

ArbOl
active member
active member
Thanks Rick, the sellers pics, you couldn'tve met a nicer bloke. Had to let it go due to redundancy. Four owners since new the one before since 1997.

I need to ride her back 70miles with a weeping fork seal, better keep it below 50mph. If anyone thinks that's just too unsafe on a K please advise!

    

50Back to top Go down   To K or not to K? Empty Re: To K or not to K? Wed Dec 05, 2012 8:24 am

Rick G

Rick G
admin
admin
Just take it easy and keep a watch if the oil really starts to come out quickly it could get on the caliper and disc. I had one leak realy badly last year and it got to the caliper but not to the disc or pads.


__________________________________________________
"Man sacrifices his health in order to make money.
Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health.
And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived."   Dalai Lama


Bikes 1999 K1100 LT with a Big Block 1200
    

Sponsored content


    

View previous topic View next topic Back to top  Message [Page 1 of 2]

Go to page : 1, 2  Next

Permissions in this forum:
You cannot reply to topics in this forum