Length 2197 mm / 86.4 in
Width 898 mm / 33.3 in
Height 1060 mm / 41.7 in
Wheelbase
1485 mm / 58.5 in
Seat Height
780 mm /
30.7 in
Ground Clearance
138 mm / 5.43 in
Dry Weight
235 kg / 517 lbs
Fuel Capacity
21 Litres / 5.5 US gal
Consumption Average
6.4 L/100 km / 15.7 km/l / 36.9m US mpg
Braking 60 km/h - 0
13.3 m / 43.6 ft
Braking 100 km/h - 0
39.4 m / 129.3 ft
Standing
¼ Mile
12.3 sec / 171.7 km/h / 106.7 mph
Top Speed
203.7 km/h / 126.6 mph
R 1100 R "75"
The 75th Anniversary models stand out from their
regular counterparts by their special colour schemes, body lines and stylish
"75 anniversary" details. They are also equipped with a wider range of
fittings and equipment as standard.
In 1994, BMW released to an utterly
confounded public a naked version of its modern Boxer. Some loved its funky
styling, some thought it just plain ugly, but it made a distinct impression on
everyone. Mechanically solid, enough people liked R1100R's distinct lines to
convince BMW that the only revisions necessary were a new chromed and concise
instrument panel and larger headlight. We received the slightly revised BMW
R1100R about a month before our Bikini Bikes test, and we thought its bold looks
and minimalist approach would complement the delicate lines of the bikini
machines.
For years the BMW marquee has been synonymous with reliability
and predictability. Although BMW is not known for cutting edge styling, don't
ignore the R1100R in the fashion department. Unlike its more conservative
siblings, the R1100R doesn't hide gadgets. Rather, they are exposed proudly. Oil
coolers, the telelever front end and fuel injectors are all on display as part
of its post-industrial design esthetic.
The major difference between the revised R1100R and the 1995
model we tested previously is an improved instrument panel. The new edition
dash, crafted from machined aluminum and chrome, is much easier to read and
makes for a very attractive layout.
On the road it's typical BMW: sure footed and torquey. Although the ergonomics
are spread out and comfy, they are aggressive enough to tear up the back roads.
The wide seat offers great support, and our test passenger loved the rear seat
accommodations, but long distance saddle endurance is hampered somewhat by the
lack of wind protection and its high bars. It's not surprising then that one of
BMW's best selling accessories for the R1100R is the windshield.
On twisty canyon roads, the R1100R rides exactly as designed.
It is brilliant at a 7/10ths pace, but push faster and the ABS is overwhelmed.
Below this, the no-dive telelever front end, excellent brakes, and quick
steering geometry make the naked Roadster a confidence inspiring blast to ride.
In city traffic, these same qualities create a nimble,
powerful commuter bike. In stop-and-go situations the bike pulls slightly to the
right, due mainly to the sideways-rotating mass -- but this is easily corrected.
The major drawback of the R1100R is its width. The wide, protruding flat twin
cylinders can make lane-splitting difficult in a state where it is legal.
The 1998 R1100R lists for $9990; $11,495 with ABS. A MO
staffer commented that the R1100R is not as exotic as the bikini roadsters, and
for a competent standard he preferred a Bandit 1200. But for those wanting
something funky, capable, fun, yet practical, the R1100R is in a league of its
own.