R100GS - things to look out for?

Northern jock

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I keep having a look at 100GS's for sale, one day I might do something about it if I see the right one at the right price, whatever that may be.

Weak points, things to look out for? I'm not that bothered about cosmetics, more about mechanical reliability.
 
Buy Arsey’s then you have nowt to worry about and you’ll make a profit should you ever come to sell it.
 
My advise would be to buy one that’s been used regularly,owned by an enthusiast.
Walk away from anything obviously knobbed up to sell,
And unless you are a very capable mechanic,run away from anything derelict.
As mentioned above,
That particular bike wants for nothing,
His asking price wouldn’t come close to the costs today of a full resto on a barn find.:thumby:
 
My advise would be to buy one that’s been used regularly,owned by an enthusiast.
Walk away from anything obviously knobbed up to sell,
And unless you are a very capable mechanic,run away from anything derelict.
As mentioned above,
That particular bike wants for nothing,
His asking price wouldn’t come close to the costs today of a full resto on a barn find.:thumby:


I agree with Mikey, even if you don’t like how it looks and want a different tank, paint, seat etc it’s still a bargain
 
Weak gearboxes, weak drive shaft, suspect alternator and starter motor reliability. I’ve owned mine for 32 years and it’s suffered some of these but not all. If I was to buy another I think I’d know what to look for but the main thing I’d want would be a limited number of previous owners, a reasonably standard bike and, of course, some history.
 
I have a nice paralever for sale. R80GS though, in very nice original condition £5250. Send me your mobile number for some WhatsApp photos if you are interested, thanks John. (£5500 if you wzz as not the BMW luggage)
 
By the way, Arseys bike is a good buy too.
 
I have a nice paralever for sale. R80GS though, in very nice original condition £5250. Send me your mobile number for some WhatsApp photos if you are interested, thanks John. (£5500 if you wzz as not the BMW luggage)

Thanks, pm sent
 
And...well done. Airheads certainly aren't for everyone but if one suits your situation / needs then you will find one really rewarding.

Also I would suggest you don't discount an 80 if one comes up. Of the two R100s and one R80 I have owned, the R80 was the sweeter engine. That's not a big sample size of course, but the point is that an 80 can also be a great bike to own.
 
And...well done. Airheads certainly aren't for everyone but if one suits your situation / needs then you will find one really rewarding.

Also I would suggest you don't discount an 80 if one comes up. Of the two R100s and one R80 I have owned, the R80 was the sweeter engine. That's not a big sample size of course, but the point is that an 80 can also be a great bike to own.

That's good advice, I think. After 40 years or so, there's probably little to choose between the performance of the two bikes and unless you're planning frequent two up rides, the R80 is probably the better of the two.

Alistair: The offer of a birl on mine is still open. If someone turns up at Dent or Portsoy with an 80, and is willing to give you a shot, you can compare them back to back. For me, Arsey's bike would be a no brainer if it had a Dakar tank. :drool
 
That's good advice, I think. After 40 years or so, there's probably little to choose between the performance of the two bikes and unless you're planning frequent two up rides, the R80 is probably the better of the two.

Alistair: The offer of a birl on mine is still open. If someone turns up at Dent or Portsoy with an 80, and is willing to give you a shot, you can compare them back to back. For me, Arsey's bike would be a no brainer if it had a Dakar tank. :drool

Cheers Pete. Whilst I think I want a 100 I’m open to an 80, whichever I find at the right price and condition first I guess
 


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