Stealth Tron Bike – 1991 BMW K1

BMW offered its radical K1 in eye-catching ketchup and mustard or a Michigan fan’s navy and gold livery, but is occasionally seen in a grown-up grey or black.  This one is fan-owned and looks excellent.

1991 BMW K1 for sale on eBay

BMW was looking to inject some pizazz into its inline engine menu, and equipped the K1 with a four valve engine which was limited to 100 hp but capable of more.  The bodywork cheated the wind to a cD of .34 – a new low for a production machine.  Contrary to their usual practice of building most everything in house, Marzocchi forks and Brembo brakes were used to complete the BMW Paralever’s work.  Always a safety innovator, the company made ABS standard on the K1.

Bone stock with just over 10,000 miles, this K1 whispers the name where most examples shout.  With complex bodywork made since 1988, this ’91 likely has all the adjustments made by the factory to address heat control and fit issues.  From the eBay auction:

This example is an all original K1 with no modifications.  The bike has been recently serviced and has a new battery.   Powered by a 1000CC/100 hp engine that runs smooth and strong.  Transmission shifts flawlessly through all gears.   The factory graphics on the gray K1 were subtle and only across the base of the fairing. The bike needs nothing but a new home.  Odometer has just kilometers; above distance ridden is listed in miles because kilometers are not offered.   The K1 is a very nice collectable bike that will be a valued addition to any collection.   Bike is sold on a clear Florida title in my name.

The K1 attempted to bridge the sport-touring divide with an interesting result.  A sporty engine concealed an annoying secondary vibration, and the sleek design required special soft luggage.  Wet weight and wide turning radius made it an experienced rider’s machine, which I guess the MSRP did as well.  This is a super example for a fan or collector without a taste for the garish 90’s graphics…

-donn