1989 BMW K 100 LT from United Kingdom
Summary:
The BMW K100 LT is an excellent all year round comfortable and reliable motorcycle
Faults:
ABS rear modulator failure.
General Comments:
This is my second BMW K100 LT during the past ten years.
I have travelled to Switzerland from Berkshire in one day covering 660 miles in total comfort. These bikes are very reliable, easy to maintain and all parts are readily available. The fairing keeps you insulated from the weather, but legs will get hot during the hottest summer days, so wearing protective summer pants is effective.
The motor gives buzzes slightly at around 3200 to 3800, which equates to 50 mph, but is part of the character. At the all important road speeds, she is very smooth on the handlebars providing the throttle bodies are properly balanced.
The 5th gear roll on acceleration from 50 mph is both impressive.
Brakes are adequate though most owners will replace master cylinders and hoses due to age rather than mileage. Due to excellent low speed fueling, the bike is wonderful around town, coupled with a nice clutch and gearbox action.
Periodical lubrication on clutch actuating parts keeps things nice and light.
The bike is no lightweight, but sits on the road very nicely.
With BT 045 tyres back and front and a decent rear shock absorber, the K100 LT can be hustled along at speed with confidence.
The headlights are excellent, as are the twin horns. Indicator controls are unique to BMW, but you get used to them.
I manage around 48MPG at motorway speeds, and the engine uses very little oil with the correct viscosity.
If you need a bike for long distances, one which keeps the weather off you and allows you to arrive feeling relaxed, then perhaps you might consider one of these. They may not be totally modern in terms of design or equipment, but they do a wonderful job.
Do I need a different bike, no.
Each to their own, but this bike does everything I need, and I love it.
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th August, 2016
16th Apr 2017, 02:36
Thank you for the comments.