The Other Red: 1999 BMW R1100S

After 25 years without, BMW renewed interest in an -S variant, and their design team applied the innovative Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension to a sport motorcycle.

1999 BMW R1100S for sale on eBay

The first BMW with clip-ons, passenger seat cowl, and rear-sets, the R1100S also has carbon fiber fenders and underseat exhaust.  The 4-valve 1085cc twin makes almost 100 hp with 72 ft-lbs of torque, and inspired the Boxer Cup, a single-type race series which supported Moto GP and the Daytona 200.  Later models included a Sport and Boxer Cup Prep with a belly pan, braided brake lines, and carbon valve covers.

Tested against the Ducati ST2 and Honda VFR 800, the R1100S wasn’t quite as comfortable on the track, but the Telelever front end provided good anti-dive characteristics.  Dual front / single rear Brembo disks are more than capable.  The bodywork flows beautifully and hides a 4.8 gal. fuel tank.  Speed yellow was the predominant launch color, and the red is distinctive.

Part of the BMW ownership experience is the wide variety of aftermarket upgrades and this R1100S has been nicely “farkled” – from the eBay auction:

Beautiful R1100S always garaged and in excellent condition. Low miles and great upgrades.  Corbin leather seat, carbon fiber turn signal covers, carbon fiber front and rear fenders, Brembo brakes, billet brake and clutch covers, Rizoma rear turn signal lights, handlebars raised, Throttlemeister cruise control, fuel injected engine, Remus stainless exhaust (including original exhaust), hard cases – both wide and narrow (City), smoke windshield (includes original),Avon tires. Lightly used and looks like new.

Doesn’t seem like anyone but a BMW owner would call 33,000 “low” miles, but sport-touring can be easier on the equipment, and the higher purchase price tends to make for mature previous owners.  This first-year R1100S appears well-loved and might be a bargain entry into the brand.

-donn