BMW R 1100 S - 1999 Specifications and Reviews

The 1999 BMW R 1100 S is a sport-touring boxer that appeals to riders seeking thrilling performance with practical versatility. Its potent 1085cc engine delivers 98 horsepower and impressive acceleration, while the shaft drive and comfortable ergonomics make it equally suited for long-distance touring. Known for agile handling and BMW's signature reliability, it perfectly balances sportiness with everyday usability.

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About the BMW R 1100 S

Powered by an air and oil cooled 1,085.00cc Boxer flat twin cylinder four stroke engine, producing 98bhp.

The engine is derived from the R1100RS although the compression ratio has been tweaked along with changes to the air intake and forged connecting rods to increase the top speed and power.

Power is delivered to the rear wheel via shaft drive and the engine is a stressed member of the frame, just like the R1100RS

The look is unique with the single sided swingarm, low down Boxer engine, dual under seat exhaust system and asymmetrical headlights. 

Optional extras include 12V socket, 5.5" rear wheel (+0.5") with 180/55 tyre, engine spoiler, sports suspension set-up, tall screen, high handlebars, 2-level heated grips, hard panniers and ABS II.

Timeline

2002: Front discs were enlarged to 320mm.

BoxerCup Replica (2003): Main differences over the base bike are a revised fourth gear ratio from, wider 5.5" rear wheel with 180/55 tyre, engine spoiler, 60mm higher seat, Metzeler Sportek M1 tyres and Laser exhausts. Like the racing machines it also has a raised chassis with longer spring struts and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) cylinder head covers.

General information

CategorySport touring
Year1999
ModelBMW R 1100 S
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases14.8 CO
Fuel consumption0.64 litres/100 km (156.3 km/l or 367.53 mpg)
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Bore x stroke99.0 x 70.5 mm (3.9 x 2.8 inches)
Compression11.3:1
60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear10.200 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)3.700 seconds
Top speed220.0 km/h (136.7 mph)
Torque97.00 Nm (9.9 kgf-m or 71.5 ft.lbs) @ 5750
Power98.00
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Capacity:1085.00 ccm (66.21 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter276 mm (10.9 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter310 mm (12.2 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front suspension travel110 mm (4.3 inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)
Wheelbase1,478 mm (58.2 inches)
Seat height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Front percentage of weight50.6
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc236.0 kg (520.3 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

96.6 hp
Peak Power
3.4s
0-60 mph
136.7 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track55%
City45%
Cornering72%
Daily Riding60%
Touring72%
Passenger55%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to intermediate or experienced riders who can appreciate the boxer engine's distinct character and shaft-drive handling quirks.
PurposeDesigned as a sport tourer, blending brisk boxer-twin performance with long-distance comfort and shaft-drive practicality.
Rider FitThe 800mm seat height and moderate 229kg wet weight make it manageable for most adult riders, though the low-speed maneuvering requires some confidence.
CharacterA quirky, characterful machine with torque-rich boxer power delivery, Telelever front suspension feel, and sporty yet composed road manners.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for off-road adventures or riders seeking a lightweight, flickable city commuter.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1999 BMW R 1100 S Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 800mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1999 BMW R 1100 S, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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