1989 BMW 980cc K1

Please kindly note that this motorbike will be available for viewing by prior appointment in Dortmund: please contact [email protected] for booking.

Launched in 1989, the futuristically styled K1 represented BMW's bold attempt to create a hyper-sports flagship model using its K-Series 980cc four-cylinder engine, up-rated with a 16-valve cylinder head and Bosch electronic fuel injection. Despite BMW's self-imposed horsepower ceiling of 100bhp, Bike magazine's test K1 recorded a maximum of 107.9bhp on Motad's dynamometer, which was sufficient to propel the aerodynamically efficient 'Brick' to a top speed of around 150mph. Arguably more important than the headline speed figures was the manner in which this performance was delivered, Bike's tester Phil West being highly impressed by the way in which the wind-tunnel developed fairing made 120mph seem like 60, and at a mere 7,500 revs too. Produced for only four years, the K1 is already one of the more collectible of post-war BMWs, as well as remaining a thoroughly capable sports-tourer.

Finished in the model's typical red/yellow colour scheme, this K1 currently displays a total of 26,044 kilometres on the odometer. Accompanying documentation includes the service booklet; operating instructions; dealer's advertisement; German Fahrzeugbrief (registration document); and a copy of Das Motorrad magazine featuring the model. It has not been possible to determine whether or not the engine turns over.
Offered with key