R100RS - Monolever vs. Paralever

[brprider679]

In my continuing quest to get up to speed on the 77-92 r100rs (which I am currently looking to purchase if anyone has a good low mileage version). I have come to understand the difference between the 88 and up models that use the paralever system from the 77- 87 models that use the monolever system. Would anyone care to help me through the process of which year(s) are the right ones to buy? Also, should there be differences in values (purchase price) I should be aware of in purchasing either way?

I would appreciate any thoughts on the differences in the ratios and horsepower and real rideability between the two types.

Thanks

[barryg]

All R100RS's from '88 on till the end were monolever. '88 and on were small valve models 60 hp. Because of gearing they were as fast as the bigvalve models probably up to 100 mph. All are good bikes.

[20774]

Through 1984, all bikes were twin shock models, except the R80ST and G/S. There were no 1000cc models for the '85 and '86 model years, but the R80s during this time period were monolevers. When the 1000cc models came out again for '87, they were monolevers as well.

[barryg]

There is a book just on the R100RS. 'BMW R100RS' by Bill Stermer listed under the Motorcycle Collector Series. Might give you a lot of info in one book. The RS went thru the usual yearly changes from '77 to '84. So there were a lot of minor changes year to year, it's a lot to list. The '88 till the end were all pretty much the same except for paint color.

[R100RS]

The '88+ RS models are monolever, not paralever. The paralever was used on the R100GS models and the '91+ R100R models. The paralever has joints at both ends, runs without oil, and is prone to failure, especially in the GS's with their increased suspension range. The monolevers don't have that issue and it's a more reliable arrangement.

The '88+ RS's are down in HP from the earlier ones (I think 61 hp), and though they do start running out of steam around 95 mph, they will break the ton and a bit more if you have enough room.

Supposedly, the monolever models handle better and have better brakes (the best arrangement is the dual front Brembos and a rear drum) while the earlier ones have a bit more power. I've never ridden an earlier one to give you a first-hand answer, though. The controls (clutch, etc) of the newer airheads, in general, will be easier and more pleasant than the earlier ones (in my opinion). I know my dad's /6 had a real mean clutch and we ended up having to put an EZ clutch kit in it.

Check your PM.