So, Abhi has a rule when it comes to these posts: don’t highlight stuff that doesn’t run, or that needs a bunch of work, unless it’s really unique.
As far as I’m aware, this thing does run, but it needs some work to get it running well. And you’re going to need to be handy with a welding torch and Bondo to get it looking right. BUT, it’s definitely unique. I mean, that sidecar is something! Full weather protection, luggage space (and – I’m guessing – an auxiliary tank for the bike), cup holders, and a seatbelt that appears to be stolen from the 1977 Chevrolet Malibu Classic that my dad drove when I was a kid.
The whole rig “was in perfect condition until a minor accident in November 2020,” according to the seller. Since then, it’s sat in a Northern California driveway. Presumably under cover, but salty air may be contributing to the rust seen on some of the bike’s bolts and screws. The bike driving the whole show, meanwhile, is an icon. The R100RT was introduced in 1978 and remained largely unchanged until its run ended in 1996. When the bike was first introduced “there was nothing, literally nothing, else on the market that came close to it in concept or execution,” according to Classic Bike Hub.
Powered by a 980cc air-cooled boxer twin, the R100RT promised peak power outputs of 70 horsepower at 7000 rpm, and 56 lb-ft of torque at 6000 rpm. Along with unique, cutting-edge (for the time) fairing, it was everything a rider could want for long-haul touring. With Honda’s Gold Wing not receiving factory fairing until a year or two after its release, many would argue that the R100RT created the big-tourer genre.
“All the basic ingredients are there,” observes Classic Bike Hub. “A great big engine, a large integrated touring fairing, comfortable sit-up riding position and integrated luggage combined in a package designed to carry rider and pillion at high speed for 200 miles between fuel stops.”
The R100RT wasn’t perfect. It had a tendency to weave at extra-legal speeds. And being a BMW of a certain age, it’s a bike that demands studious adherence to maintenance schedules. “An old RT is a nice bike to ride, though, even now,” claims Classic Bike Hub. “True, the engine is lumpy below about 3000 rpm and both feels and sounds harsh (especially as a lot of noise gets reflected at the rider by the fairing), but it has a lanky loping gait that enables you to cover ground far faster than you’d think possible.”
The people who love these bikes ABSOLUTELY love them. If you’re one of those people – and you’ve got a garage full of tools, and you know how to use them – this example can be yours for just $5,000 or best offer.
With 12,000 miles on the clock, this R100RT and sidecar are for sale in Berkeley, California, here on eBay.