One registered keeper from new: in current ownership for nearly 48 years
Reported to be completely unmodified from factory specification
Full overhaul carried out in 2019
Matching serial numbers confirmed
BMW's flagship road motorcycle when new, and widely regarded as the world's first production motorcycle with a full fairing
The Appeal
The BMW R100RS holds a special place in motorcycling history. Launched in 1976, it was the world's first production motorcycle to feature a full aerodynamic fairing, designed by Hans Muth and developed in a wind tunnel. It immediately set the benchmark for high-speed touring. With its air-cooled 978cc boxer twin, five-speed gearbox and that iconic fairing, the R100RS was BMW's top-of-the-range road machine and a genuine grand tourer capable of covering vast distances in comfort.
This particular example, dating from 3 October 1978, is especially noteworthy for having remained with its original owner for nearly 48 years. It was purchased new for regular long-distance commuting between Béthune and Chambéry, a journey of some 800 kilometres, and has been kept in the same hands ever since. The vendor confirms that no modifications have been made, making this a wholly original R100RS in blue.
A full overhaul was carried out in 2019, and the motorcycle continues to be exercised once or twice a month to keep everything in good working order. It is stored indoors in dry conditions and connected to an Optimate 5 battery charger. The vendor rates the overall condition favourably, reporting that the bodywork and paintwork present very well with only light signs of wear consistent with age.
For admirers of BMW's air-cooled boxer twins, and the R100RS in particular, the opportunity to acquire a single-owner, unmodified example with confirmed matching serial numbers is one not to be missed.Bmw 21 Jean-Michel Constant.JPG4.36 MB
Key Information
Mileage: 40,435 km (odometer recorded as correct by the vendor who has owned the bike from new)
Country of registration: France, standard French registration
Technical inspection status: Renewed on 3rd March 2026
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