BMW R100CS: I bought a 41 year old Airhead! What’s the plan?

[@dougmacdonald7269]

As an Airhead owner I might add that BMW stands for' Brakes Might Work' that is a nice machine

[@WildlifeMoto]

Haha. Well the front brakes are ok now that they have been rebuilt. Back brakes are still useless.

[@andrewd7586]

Well done! 👏🏼 I’m in Australia & I’ve got a fully restored 1980 BMW R100S. I’ve got 3 airheads but the R100S is my favourite! Runs beautifully, handles surprisingly well & is so much fun! 1. You’ll only need the choke on while warming up. 2. Yeah we all forget to turn the taps on & off!🤣 3. When gear changing just pull the clutch in, then just ease into the next gear. It’ll do it effortlessly! Remember it’s not a modern day sports bike! Cheers from “Down Under”! 🍻👍🏼😎🇦🇺

[@WildlifeMoto]

Cheers for the tips Andrew. I'm slowly getting the hang of it lol. Lucky you with 3 Airheads. I can see why these bikes have such a huge following .

[@juiceLoosner]

Me three. 78 RS w S fairing in Oz. Great on the open road. Feels cool as f to ride. Great tourer. Rear breaks are shit. I have always wanted to be able to lock them up but maybe its just a limitation.

[@adlinnes]

Hello Andrew. I've recently purchased a 76 R100S, & got to get it roadworthy. Just wondering - is there a particular site you access for parts. I'm in Victoria. Do you service it yourself, or entrust yours to others? I imagine with 3 of them, you've built up quite a bank of resources & knowledge. One thing I am interested in knowing, do the brakes lend themselves to upgrades? Mine has an under-the-tank master cylinder, twin discs @ front, & drum rear, & as the Wildlife Moto chap says, braking requires a bit of forethought & preparation, although his (with handlebar MC) sounds like the brakes probably don't function much better than mine do. Cheers.

[@hansmonitio7462]

You got a great Airhead ! I own a 79 r100rs and it amazes me when I ride it. It still performs well after 40 years. Ride and maintain it and it will last forever.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks Hans. It feel like a bike that could last forever. Looking forward to getting some trips under my belt.

[@majorscope]

I had an R80 in the eighties, followed by a 1981 R100RS. (my friend still has it!). I ptefer the heavy flywheel.I still have an immaculate early 1980 R100RS and a 1979 R80. Used to ride them all over france in the old days. Great bikes. The further you go the better they get. You will never wear it out!.

[@hfranke07]

Wow, this sound when you starts her is just so awesome. I love it.....

[@eurospec]

After enjoying BMW K bikes for many years, I just purchased a R90S this year and really enjoy it. Definitely not as capable as the four cylinders, but makes up for it in personality, which is really the whole point!

[@marylandflyer5670]

Beautifully designed and riding classic bike! Nothing more needed around town and country.

[@assessor1276]

Nice - and a great choice for a tourer. I love my ‘83 R100RS - having lusted after one since the marque was introduced in 1977.

[@Roger_Ramjet]

Always wanted an RS. Such a looker.

[@kenmoore7195]

What a great video. I can relate to it as I rescued a BMW R1100s 15 months ago after languishing in a farm shed for 3 years. I have brought it up to scratch and carried out all maintenance . I kept riding the bike whilst I worked on it and have done a couple of 1,000Klm days on it over a total of 23,000Ks. I am a babe in the woods, mine is only 22 years old though. It was so bad the front shock was seized !

[@AndrewTheCelt]

My RT does have a bigger fairing but the seating and riding position is much more travel friendly on longer rides, beautiful motorcycle

[@michaelbrown9363]

Loved my birth year 80 R100T. Your assessment of the strengths and weaknesses is spot on. On mine, preloading the shifter made all the difference, and shifting became satisfying. I always said that the brakes were just a suggestion.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Cheers Michael. Still refining my technique for shifting. I’ll try preloading the leaver as you suggest. I had an old Ducati that needed a similar method.

[@sydsacks9097]

Nice bike. I have an R90s since 1977! Tyre wear can cause the weave; check rear tyre to see if profile is squared off by wear. Clock adjustment at rear of clock.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks Syd. The clock adjuster is missing 😭. I’ll see if I can make something to turn the mechanism.

[@zedcharlie]

Choke only when cold. If you need it when warm then carbs need checking. I just got a 75 r60. Runs lovely. Immediate start. Take a minute or 2 before it accepts a bit of throttle. Also it tracks perfect with hands off bars.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Yes they might need a bit of adjusting. The bike as been sat around for years so they could probably do with a strip down an clean out to.

[@zedcharlie]

@@WildlifeMoto They are superb motors . Mine is 47 yr old. Smooth and torquey with the shuffle at idle to stop you getting bored. 😁

[@richardthibert3222]

Agree you use the choke for very short time. One started remove choke and control with gaz only.

[@NostosGR]

Nice ride mate, lovely bike. I'm sure you will enjoy it more than you ever thought you will. I had the R1100R and that motor was by far the smoothest and most fun motor I have even driven since today.. I'm currently searching to buy again that bike

[@WildlifeMoto]

I'm amazed at how smooth it is. I was expecting it to be much more lumpy. These engines are perfectly balanced by design and you feel that.

[@woolmer608]

Absolutely gorgeous motorcycle,BMW certainly got it right in terms of design.Wish they still made them today just quality.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

I had the same year’s r100rt version of that which I commuted and toured on for several years putting up quite a mileage. You may need to consider hardened valve seats as these weren’t really designed for unleaded petrol. The R100RT and R100RS were the ultimate development versions, the CS being essentially a handlebar bikini fairing version of the RT or RS and sometimes called the poor man’s RS. I liked them. Things to watch for include front wheel bearing wear…they eat front wheel bearings for some reason; carry spare plugs or go to one grade hotter running, mine ate standard plugs which I had to replace almost every service. Carbs need regular fettling to stay in tune. Early ones ran on points so they can need cleaning and checking for timing each service. Brakes need regular cleaning and inspection and cast wheels can crack across the webs on these. Cam chain tensioner may need checking too as they could get a bit noisy otherwise. Suspension is very limited standard and poorly set up, especially the front. Yours sounds like it’s well sorted so that’s a good upgrade path. Battery takes a hammering if accessories are fitted and needs keeping on a tender when the weather turns cold. They’re big pistons it has to cold crank! Once you get used to the limited power on tap and keep revs low (no point in revving these hard) they’re a lovely thing to ride bar the bendy chassis! The front is not really a steering damper in the modern parlance, it’s more accurately described as a friction damper and really they need a fork brace and a modern damper and then slacken off the friction damper. Pushed hard they can get into violent tank slappers….ask me how I know😂. The RT I think looks great. It has excellent weather protection and is more comfortable. Best colour was smoked green! Bhp was high 60’s to 70 but it kicked out almost as much torque. To cure weave you need to fine tune rear suspension. Soften it slightly at the rear and wind off a little compression damping if fitted and the tendency to weave or shake its head under power will reduce at the front. Try it. Avoid fitting Metzler laser fronts. They were lethal things in the wet! Also useless on slightly slippery or frosty surfaces. I hated them. Fit anything but those if you value your neck! RT uses wider bars so doesn’t feel as heavy. Brakes were ok if regularly maintained. Modern bikes do NOT stop as fast as modern cars…sorry that’s urban myth. Bikes will always have the disadvantage of a smaller contact patch on the road. They’re very good but limited by the contact patch and road conditions. The rattles are down to two or three main things: 1. As above, check cam chain tensioner and 2. Check tappet clearances. They’re easy to do on these. 3. Clutches and thrust bearing can get noisy. As you say, they’re a Goldilocks bike in the same vain that the VStrom DL650 is. As brilliant today as they were when launched. Love them and if I had room I’d have another RT or RS airhead in a heartbeat. Hope you enjoy your ownership👍. Ride safe.

[@mattatron2077]

Superb! I look forward to seeing how you get on with it.

[@mmartinez3619]

What a stellar video. Thank you! Can’t wait to go riding!

[@andrewwhite9132]

My 82 R100rs which I've owned for 30 years has the same handlebar wobble when front tyre is down to 2/3mm. Although I've tried to eke out the most from tyres I've found changing them slightly before being down to the limit solve the wobble that occurs whilst decelerating at about 40mph, particularly if you loosen your grip on the bars.

[@brianperry]

l part exchanged a Guzzi 850 Lemans for an almost new 80/7 BMW. When l drove away from the dealer it was a joy. A couple of years later l swopped the 800cc for a R100RS a bike that was 3000 pounds when new in the late seventies. l rode that bike everywhere it was such a beauty, well made and reliable..The Guzzi had the kudos of an 'Italian Stallion' the Beemer had the Teutonic build quality...Now 76, it was a real pleasure to have owned such wonderful motorcycles in the late seventies/early eighties.

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

Keep, restore if needed.. and enjoy. I love my 85 R80RT... Bulletproof.

[@steveparish9210]

R90s what an absolutely beautiful bike! I lusted after this bike big time when I was young. You've done a lovely job bringing it back round 🙂

[@louisrauzi3872]

The two major improvements to lessen weaving, progessive anti dive fork springs & a billet aluminum top fork clamp. The stock upper clamp allows the forks to twist. Amazing difference!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Hi. I was looking at the Telefix brace. Do you think that would help?

[@louisrauzi3872]

@@WildlifeMotonever used one. Can't hurt. CC products makes the upper clamp. Have to mod the rubber handle bar cover to fit. Both my R75/5 & R100RS have them.

[@WildlifeMoto]

@@louisrauzi3872 Ended up ordering the Toaster Tan top brace. Looking forward to trying it out.

[@ianross225]

Beautiful machine. I’ve had several airheads (still have 3) and they are certainly quirky. I use the damper on No1 and found rear tyre wear affects white lining and wandering. There are several front end mods not least a fork brace and progressive springs. Your panniers may have an effect at higher speeds. As for gear changes, slow and deliberate is the answer. Yours is better than the earlier versions but BMWs are never going to be Japanese slick and compare only to other BMWs in my experience. Enjoy your bike, it’ll grow on you each time you ride it.

[@andyfaima6472]

Lovely looking bike,got my R100RS a few months ago. Definatly takes a bit of getting used to but they grow on you. Should be a knob at back of the clock .

[@WildlifeMoto]

Cheers Andy. I’ve had the clock out, could see anything that could be twisted. I reckon it’s fallen off. Maybe I’ll just disconnect the battery and reconnect it at the right time 😆

[@andyfaima6472]

@@WildlifeMoto the joys of old bikes-bits falling off🤣

[@jimstewart2141]

You finally learnt why the boys in blue road them eight hours a day seven days a week for years, I heard of them 10 years old and quarter of million miles on the clock from a friend whom road them on the special details. Though that were suppose to get rid at i think it was 100k. Though not a fast he always preferred the R80...

[@WildlifeMoto]

It’s taken me far too long to discover this bike. I’ve heard great things about the R80. Apparently that’s the smoothest boxer of the time.

[@jimstewart2141]

@@WildlifeMoto During lockdown i was trying to buy a R65LS but they just got too dear to sit in my garage for a few hundred miles each year, must fix the CB200 first

[@philipchard7596]

Enjoyed your blog was great seeing you drive around Braintree, I have had many boxer twins,and after a r100rs again . I have a 1250 gs living in Sweden, but love my classics.great picture quality and sound 🏍🇸🇪😎👍

[@20111111jorg]

Loved your review. Owned a 79RS, 82RS, and still have my 88RS with 160k on it (along with an F800 and Royal Enfield). Rode for years with a friend who had two R90S's. We'd often exchange, and yes, the R100\R90\CS\S with the 'bikini' fairing is the most comfortable bike I've ever ridden. Not only that but take care of it as it will only increase in value. My 82 had 'head' shake problems also from time to time. A large part of it was worn head bearings. Still on certain tires when they wore low I'd have that problem. The rubber cow usually refers to frame flex when pushing the bike to it's limit around high speed twisties. Since 'Bentley's' really aren't suppose to be ridden that way, you should have no problems. Yes, the bike is probably only 60hp, but plenty good enough to keep up with traffic and have fun on the road. California here.

[@richardthibert3222]

I also have a 1981 R100CS in Canada, with 140k and running strong, Very smooth mc and reliable.

[@walt7518]

Lovely to see that cockpit view again and hear the engine. I had the S version in the 80's rode from the UK to Greece, Portugal, Scotland as well as using it for daily commuter/shopping /pub duties. I've looked for another every now and then but it's difficult to find an unmodified bike at a reasonable price and condition. I'll just have to relive my youth via your channel😄 You made a great choice and it looks a real beauty.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks for the comment Walt. Sounds like you had a great time on your S back in the day. Glad you get to relive some of those good times through the channel.

[@billchessell8213]

Unmodified… when I sold my R100S the new owner came by to show me all the brilliant changes he’d made. I can’t understand why anyone but an aircraft engineer would feel qualified to change a bike designed by BMW? My bikes first owner WAS an aircraft engineer an he left it bone stock as did I. I did remove the “1000” stickers from the side. No need to boast.

[@resin8n]

Nice video. Brings back memories. You might benefit from checking your steering head bearings, they used to require regular attention.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Cheers Bill. Well the whole bike is in 1000 pieces now (see latest videos) lol. I'm going to replace all the bearings and make sure the preload is set correctly on the top nut.

[@markmath2883]

My first BMW was a new burnt orange ‘78 R100/7. It was a great all around bike, especially for touring with it’s 6 gallon tank. In addition to my Valkyrie and Triumph, I bought a ‘94 RS in 2012; then a 2009 R1200RT in 2018. I miss the simplicity of my /7 though.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks Mark. Can't wait to take this bike on a few tours.

[@plunder1956]

I was always a fan of the RT format fairing. I nearly bought an R800 RT back in the 80s. One thing you did get with BMW was robust quality switchgear.

[@Dieselschlucker1312]

Ein hervorragendes Motorrad mit Charakter und Stil. Allein schon der Klang, wenn sie vorbei fährt. Außerdem ist sie extrem schnell und wendig auf kurvenreichen Strecken, wenn man eine BMW fahren kann!

[@tonymunn]

Preloading the shifter, prior to clutching when shifting helps to prevent the false neutrals. I havent figured out smooth shifting downshifts yet.

[@Thekrpntr]

I have a couple of R100 s. Hard shifting? Try lubing the transmission splines. Wobble? Try adjusting head bearings. Been riding my '82 R100S since '91 and put many a mile full of smiles on her. 300k and counting. Early maintenance and regular oil changes keeps them going. OH, and be sure to flush and clean the tank on a regular schedule. Condensation happens. I'll stop riding when I get too old.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Good tips, but do check out the videos on my channel. This bike has since had a full restoration. 👍

[@dimitriwolfs9370]

My older brother had multiple BMW's ,a 750 bar 5 boxer,and a bar 6 .l8r on my friends had two 1000cc ks

[@tonymartin3780]

Great bike I have the R100Rs 1979 wish I still had it

[@johna6968]

Love it. Always fancied a standard retro Beemer.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks Jay.

[@jobyEN]

So much more beautiful then the current "classic" R nineT! Wish BMW could make an updated version (tech wise) of this one! Thanks for the vid!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Not only that, the build quality of these old bikes is incredible. The thing is absolutely solid.

[@juiceLoosner]

The original design and prototypes of RNineT by Roland Sands and BMW were much more closely modeled on the aesthetic of the sunburst R90S. Its a shame they never realeased this variant. Maybe one day. Love the RNine T but love my 78 R100S even more.

[@crumblymal8479]

Great old bikes tested the 800 version many eons ago and liked it they were good machines maybe not as pretty as the Janonese ones but they had proven reliability the police used them for many years too . Cool 😉👍

[@johnkizziah108]

I have a big collection of old air heads. Have over a half a million miles on them. Put 120k miles on a 90s. Still have a brand new 74 90s in the crate..nice bike and your correct the cs never came in silver smoke color. Great bike enjoy it.

[@WildlifeMoto]

You have a new R90s in a create? Wow! That’s got to be worth a fortune now. If you take a look at my recent videos you’ll see that I’m now doing a ground up restoration to get her back to her best. It’s a fun project.

[@blazesboylan7947]

As tempted as I am by the likes of the 2023 Tracer 9 GT, a bike like the Tracer makes it almost too easy. Far more satisfying to cross the country on something forty years old. You’ve got the best of both worlds there-comfort, reliability (relatively speaking) and loads of character.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks mate. Yes, as long as she is as reliable as people say, I'm looking forward to getting out for some longer trips. It's a great mix of style, comfort and practicality. Modern bikes are so good now, it feels like and element of the adventure has left us.

[@norberthaase1697]

@@WildlifeMoto In meinem Alter kommt mir allerdings die Sitzbank nach 3-4Stunden etwas unbequem vor.Aber muss ja auch nicht mehr sein.

[@tileproplus]

Nice video of a lovely looking bike. I do hope that you have lots of wonderful adventures on her. I have had an old airhead since 1980 when I bought my brand new R80. I have still got it and love riding it. Rode it through France, over the Pyrenees into Spain and toured around the Picos and came back the same way on it last year. It is the third time I have done such a trip and it has always got me back home. The brembo's are much better than you have so far discovered so I thought I would comment before you bend the forks and stot your head of something. Try sliding your hand to the right so that you are grabing the lever right at the outer end. You should be able to just about lock up the front wheel and if you can't there is something wrong. Different grades of pads are available which can also dramaticlly improve things.

[@woodly1069]

Beautiful old Airhead! I have been sorting one myself and plan to use it for touring this summer

[@WildlifeMoto]

Nice! I can’t wait to take her out on a decent tour. Not sure if you’ve seen my other videos but the entire bike is being rebuilt for this reason.

[@anvil259]

I’ve never owned one but this period of BMW are fast becoming a favourite of mine. Looks like you’ve got a great bike there… 🙂

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thank you. Yes, when I first saw these bikes I didn't really get it. I was kind of fascinated by all the custom builds using these engines, but over time the original really grew on me.

[@slartybartfarst9737]

Had a beautiful black and chrome R100 CS with the RS fairing. 135 mph two up with camping gear all the way to 24 hr at Paul Ricard. Think the fairing added 15 mph as it was well into the red in top

[@Gambo916]

Mr WM, don't worry about an old girl's age......I've had many a cracking ride on an older bike, spesh the type with big sticky out jugs. They respond surprisingly well to being ridden hard too.....they just love being given a good hammering every now and again!!!

[@WildlifeMoto]

“Sticky out jugs” 😂.

[@Gambo916]

@@WildlifeMoto Big jugs will keep you warm in winter too!! Just cwtch in tight to 'em!!

[@441rider]

My BA 441 made it 2500 miles in 2 weeks Vancouver to LA and I only had to replace clutch plates on the road something I cannot do or need to on my toaster R60. LOL! Old bike just need a rock and a screwdriver.

[@adlinnes]

Hey, Mr Moto. Another Australian here. I have just purchased myself a 1976 R100S. I just wanted to say that I've found your videos very informative & entertaining. I really enjoy your presentation style. I have to do a couple of things to get mine roadworthy, though relatively minor, in terms of lighting switchgear, & front brake master cylinder switch. I totally get the buzz of being pleasantly surprised, nay, the joy of riding being rekindled when you jump on a bike like this. It's my first experience of an R; I've previously had a K. I eagerly await the next instalment - I've watched the playlist to date - but I do understand you're coming out of winter/ spring over there. Thank you for the content.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Hi Andrew. Glad to hear you are enjoying the content. I’m hoping the pace of videos will pick up soon, right now I’m waiting for all the various parts to come back before a can start rebuilding. When the engine was stripped we saw that the barrels needed machining and re-coating with Nikasil. We also need to replace the pistons as they are slightly out of round. The gearbox also needs several parts replacing (like helical gears) before it goes back together. All the powered coating is done, but I’m still waiting on Ceramic coating for the callipers, timing chest and rocker covers. I also need to source new wheels as these are buckled. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks I’ll have everything back in the garage and I can start the process of bolting it all back together. It’s been far more work than I expected but it’s going to be worth it.

[@adlinnes]

@@WildlifeMoto Thank you for replying. My hat is off to you. That bike is going to pay you back in spades for all of the love you're giving it. It sure is a big job, when all is said & done. Well, you know that I'll certainly be eagerly watching. You seem to be very mechanically-minded. Have you had formal training, or is it born from just tinkering over the years? Anyway, keep up the great work. Thank you for sharing it.

[@ruezi12]

Super ride... very good, that you want to keep original... so beautiful!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Yep, this one has been saved from the hipsters and their angle grinders.

[@AdrianSilea]

I was screaming inside at your prolonged use of the choke. 😅 It was fine when you first started it up - it hadn't cooled down enough through your presentation to require any more of it, but just enough to ask for a little bit of constant throttle. It's good practice to put it out of gear and release the clutch when waiting at a red light to prolong the life of the thrust bearing and its associated parts. Also - especially when cold - it helps to preload the shifter with your foot for a few seconds before you decide to actually pull the clutch and switch gears: you'll be shifting noiselessly all the time. Congratulations, it's a lovely bike in mint condition! Very reliable, nimble, inviting, versatile and comfortable. I'm constantly in awe of mine.

[@WildlifeMoto]

I've been spoiled by bikes with fuel injection and automatic chokes. Having said that, this bike had a problem where it was idling low and cutting out. I could feel it going, so added some choke (which didn't work either - lol). Since uploading this video the bike has been completely stripped and is currently having the engine re-built. The carbs were in a bad state (gunked up and holes in the diaphragms). We've also found issues with worn cylinder lining and out of round pistons. I'm uploading videos of the rebuild if you want to see how things are going.

[@martinjohnston4274]

Great video. Thanks for making it. It was lovely to see that view again and hear that twinny buzz! I bought and restored a 1981 R100CS (in 2002) and I loved it. I wish I had never parted with it. It had the smoked paint just like yours (albeit mine was red), so I think that was original. Mine did not have electronic ignition. Perhaps that came late in the production year? Also my petrol cap looked nothing like yours. I guess there were ongoing incremental differences even within the same year of manufacture. I do agree with you about the brakes; they could have been much better. I never got that little speed wobble you demonstrated (I was using Continental tyres on mine). I hope you do future videos about your experiences with this lovely old bike. Best of luck with it!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Hi Martin. Yes the CS either came in your wonderful smokey red, or a metallic black. The fuel cap on mine is an aftermarket monza cap. I'm now doing a full rebuild of the bike, there are several new videos documenting the progress on the channel. I'll keep uploading until it's all done (might be a while).

[@holzig5229]

Very nice review, thanks! You're inspiring me to overhaul my old R100/7, "Sweet Lorraine". Das Beste seit 1923! 🙂

[@WildlifeMoto]

Do it! I’m having a great time bringing this bike back to its best.

[@holzig5229]

Thanks for the encouragement! She has faithfully purred through the mountains of New Mexico and Colorado many times to save my sanity. @@WildlifeMoto

[@timothybrockbank7474]

Always fancied the r100rt myself

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

It's a lovely looking bike mate, I wish I had one. I do own a GS 1250 that takes me to many places

[@ianstorey-e2p]

Great video, thanks for that - and just a few miles from me, I know those roads! Had my first ride on a new (to me) very similar mint 100S yesterday. Less than half the ponies than my over-sophisticated Multistrada 1200S, but more than twice the fun. It's really engaging to ride and with a little planning ahead and forgiving the quirks, eats the miles. So much nicer than my more recent stream of K100, R1100S, R1200S, R1200GS. These are surprisingly special, simple, useable bikes. All you need and nothing you don't.

[@WildlifeMoto]

100% agree with you. These older bikes provide a much more direct riding experience. The new bikes are great, but with all the electronics it feels like being a passenger at times.

[@frankhall401]

That's a relief. Before watching I assumed you'd be butchering it into a hipster cafe racer and it looks far too nice to do that to it.

[@WildlifeMoto]

No No No! It's such a shame that so many of these beautiful bikes have been destroyed by hipsters with angle grinders. I didn't mind "customising" my Royal Enfield as it's not a real classic. This bike will stay as original as possible.

[@user-pm5jh8vj2x]

I’ve owned my ‘88 R100rs since 1997. 118k miles and still going strong. Had nothing but trouble and expense with a 2010 BMW 535 sport wagon I now have a 1990 Mercedes 300SE with a 5sp manual gearbox. I’m pretty sure I’ll never have to buy another vehicle…..ever.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Great to hear. My bike had done 60k and needs quite a bit doing inside the gearbox and engine. Nothing that stopped it actually running, but better to get everything done now than wait for trouble later.

[@davgb7904]

Really interested to see how you get on with this. As a 16 year old I fell in love with boxers despite all the rise of the Japanese fours and all else. /6 series was just out, and a review in Bike Magazine just captivated me. In my early 20s I was lucky to acquire a very low mileage, 2 year old TT Silver Smoke R90S, which I kept for over 35 years. Alongside several other airhead boxers, I was (still am) passionate about them. Quirky and clunky, in experienced hands there was nothing better. They may have lacked the spec for outright performance, but they could stay with anything on the road at that time over a distance, and even give the other stuff a run for it's money on a backroad blast. Comfortable in ways modern machines just aren't, that S fairing was revolutionary, and the 100RS and 100RT fairings have not, imo, been bettered to this day. The R100CS is a superb machine. That colour scheme isn't original but the TT was, imho, the very best. At an age where the maintenance of an older machine is just getting beyond me, and the prices have risen considerably, I considered that an older airhead is not practical for me now (I may revise that if one crops up :-) ). However, I've discovered the RE Interceptor, which I know you had/have. I'm comforted that it is very similar in ride to an airhead - close to an R60 or R75 in performance. Nevertheless, I'm very envious of your new acquisition. The new boxers are not a patch on those old airheads.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Sounds like you had 35 happy years with that wonderful R90S! Over the years i've been lucky enough to own several modern bikes, but i've always found that it's the unusual machines that I enjoy riding the most. The Royal Enfield (still have it) really feels like an old British bike, it's pure and characterful. The BMW feels like you are operating a proper engine, you feel like you are more connected with the bike in a way that modern bikes have removed through layers of technology.

[@norberthaase1697]

@@WildlifeMoto Das hast du gut beschrieben.Ich hatte 5 alte 2-Ventiler.Die 1.war eine R65 LS.Meine heutige ist eine R80 von 1986.Ich hatte sie 1991gebraucht gekauft.Bis 2013 gefahren,dann verkauft.Im Jahr 2019 wieder zurück gekauft.Im sehr schlimmen Zustand.Jetzt steht sie besser da als vorher.Hab ihr eine gelochte Doppelscheibenbremse und Stahlflex Leitungen spendiert.Ich bin jetzt 72 und gebe sie nicht mehr her . Grüße aus Deutschland

[@gileswindebank9952]

Check master front brake cylinder. Shortly after it was made. BMW change the size. Think a couple less mm. Then soft grippy pads, big improvement

[@ericjones3851]

A great video, I have a 1984 CS. Interesting test you bike has a steering damper.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thank you. Since making this video the bike has been rebuilt. I’m about to take it for its first ride so hopefully the wobble has gone. During the project I discovered that the wheels were slightly buckled and the steering bearings were quite wore. I’ll get the video up soon.

[@dougpeterson3356]

I believe the CS came in the white with red & blue trim of their motorsport livery.

[@WildlifeMoto]

I think there were a few colour options. This bike was originally metallic black with gold pinstripes. I’ve since had everything repainted as part of the rebuild. I didn’t go for metallic black, it’s now a gloss black with gold pinstripes as per the original.

[@BFitz1976]

If for any reason you ever want to sell her, I would love to hear about it ☺️

[@DrTerryPMagee]

Great bike and video. I'm new to BMW ownership, as I acquired a 1983 r100rt last year. The original full fairing was long gone, so I'm looking to put one on like yours. Didn't catch what kind you put on... Thanks again for the content.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Hi Dr. This is the original S fairing. They came fitted on the R90s, R100s and R100CS. There are a few companies around selling replicas. Maybe try Flat Racer.

[@ykph5188]

The rear end rising is called shaft jacking ....

[@laurentcoudert3734]

For the clock the know is below the clock itself. Just a bit fiddly to reach. I used to have a 90S. Laurent

[@441rider]

I had a 82 RT that was dual plugged EME upgraded and a R60. If you do not want a front wobble over 140 160kph make sure head bearings are set right and rear disk is true not warped. Same with slash 5 airheads the "death wobble" on SWB is a lack of mechanical work.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Mine has a drum on the rear. I think it was an issue with preload on the front bearing or possibly because both wheels were buckled.

[@roadsey7012]

lovely bike, I have a 1982 R65LS which is great but needs a bit of attention, but now I have it running, might leave as is till after winter, would like to progress to an R100 if the right one come along, hope to see more now as a subscriber, enjoy.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thank you :)

[@44444444119]

Got the 800cc same , 1993 mono.road fairing etc coming up to 200000kms and it still tickles my fancy so to speak

[@stevesanelli90]

Those dials look like Nippon Denso🤔 My 82 Pantah has those.I’m sure the knob in the centre is a steering damper? The riding is on another level & you feel the 40 plus years!😉👍

[@WildlifeMoto]

Yes the damper is in the middle. It's quite useful as the bike is a bit weavy. You have Pantah! Wow, very jealous.

[@jrnmller1551]

adjust time: push the button and turn!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Sorry to sound silly, but what button?

[@jrnmller1551]

@@WildlifeMoto There should be a button in the middle of the front off the clock that you push and turn to set the clock,if in doubt google BMW airhead clock!

[@jrnmller1551]

@@WildlifeMoto it seems some later models had a button on the backside you hold and the indicators would move!

[@mick998r]

Everybody needs a good classic in there collection to remind them what bikes were like and that they need to be worked. I believe it makes you a far better rider for it. These days with quickshifters, up and down, no choke and brilliant brakes, make for a very lazy rider in my opinion. Good to get the best of both worlds.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Absolutely, they are much more hands on. I'm really enjoying it so far.

[@lescrook2750]

I've just bought a 1990 k100rs. My plan is exactly the same. Love it, fettle it and ride it.

[@441rider]

I have ridden by many a down canbus bikes in Rockies and good luck fixing them out there or getting a tow within 6 hours or pushing it. Old bikes are repairable on road but even on an airhead you won't be doing a clutch like on a UK made BSA or real UK made Triumph.

[@dunec4039]

Really nice bike. However my R80 G/S is said by most to have 'saved' BMW motorcycles. Suggest you check the swinging arm bearings which are a weak design feature (and grease them often). Also it won't like E10 fuel. Find an Esso station and use their best E5. The shaft drive drain plug is another weakness (or, rather, the tapped hole in the aluminium which is M12 x 1.5). Always take a spare charging lamp with you because the failure of this indicator lamp will stop the charging no matter the condition of the rest of the charging circuitry and components.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Wow, I didn't know that about the charging light. I'm ordering a pack for the tool kit now! If I can help it I only ever fill up at Esso with E5. The Swing are is currently getting powder coated so all the bearings are getting changed. Thanks for the tips.

[@antonoat]

This looks like the channel I've been looking for, love the CS, had to subscribe!

[@WildlifeMoto]

Welcome aboard!

[@michaelfowler7014]

Can't wait to the next video amazing bike

[@Stalovo]

Brilliant 👏

[@pmfilmsUK]

Fantastic review. Respect.

[@richardhall916]

Great video. Nice narrative, love BMV❤

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thank you

[@andyml1]

Stunning bike made even more desirable with those Krausers….❤. I’ve subbed. 🙂

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks for the sub!

[@johncranwell3783]

It’s funny how everyone calls these airheads these days…. The only reference to these bikes were boxers back in the day… I still have my R80/7 which has the same fairing and alloys and twin brakes, Another great boxer you don’t hear much of these days

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks John. I’m guessing Airhead is just a point of distinction over the oil cooled “Oilheads” and the modern liquid cooled boxers. I guess back in the day, no such distinction was required.

[@tettazwo9865]

Superb bike, nice video!

[@Larry_Mott]

Nice bike! (and video) Watched them in the wrong order, hence asking what year it was in the other video :)

[@geoffhillier8060]

The CS my mate had from new was black with gold coach work but did have the bikini fairing. That looks like a later R90S style repaint. Looks nice though

[@WildlifeMoto]

Think you are right. It’s either been repainted or had the parts replaced with those from a 90s.

[@richardjudd4579]

That's definitely a respray, the 90S paint had a much more gentle fade

[@WildlifeMoto]

@@richardjudd4579 Yes I agree. I'm a bit relieved to be honest as no longer feel compelled to preserve it. The bike will go back to it's original CS black and gold scheme.

[@1234567marks]

If your steering damper is done up too tightly it can cause the bike to weave, back it off, if then weaves worse you know to tighten it, if it doesn’t weave then you know too much damping was initially applied. ******Never tighten the damper whilst riding*******, if it’s over tightened whilst riding along a straight it might not want to go around the next corner!.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks for the tip Mark. Now that I’ve taken the bike apart, the steering bearing pre-load nut was very loose. Hopefully tightening this will eliminate the ~40mph shaking. Will probably be a case of trial and error to get it set correctly.

[@1234567marks]

@@WildlifeMoto looks like a likely cause, good luck dialling it out, as you say probably a bit of trial and error 👍

[@graantmnz]

i used to have a cs...i dont think that one has original paint, my one was black with pinstriping, but no two colour smoke....havde had an R100/7 and R100s an R100RS and the CS...all gone, but just acquired an R1100s.

[@thomasspoerli4659]

You're right. The painting scheme is from the R 90/S, built 73- 76. Two colors were available: Daytona orange, and Silver smoke. Have a Silver smoke in my garage. With matching numbers. Greetings from Switzerland, Europe.

[@tonymartin3780]

Beautiful bike 😊

[@Recycledhooligan]

Nice machine

[@ton123best]

Yes, a beautiful machine! I have a question about the accelerator handle, when you move it, the accelerator cable also moves. That is not original BMW, is it a after market part? I own a 1979 R80/7 which I bought in 1984. Amongst other upgrades, I upgraded it with a Siebenrock Power Kit. The difference between 800 and 1.000 cc feels very good 😄

[@WildlifeMoto]

It’s an aftermarket heated grip. I’ve stripped the bike down as part of a full rebuild - these grips are not going back on.

[@norberthaase1697]

Eine der Schönsten.Leider hat meine damals ab 120km/h mit und ohne Koffer gependelt.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

Just lovely. So neat and svelte unlike sticky out and bitty styling now? Back in the day I very nearly bought a R100RS, so sleek and capable, but bought a Spada Royale instead (equally capable), thus starting my love affair with Moto Guzzi, lol!

[@WildlifeMoto]

From the days before touring bikes were these huge barges that you see on the road today. I had to look up the Spada as i'd not heard of it before. Great looking bike, quite similar to the RT.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

@@WildlifeMoto I remember Bike magazine doing a comparison test between the R90S and the Guzzi 750S3 as the only 2 bikes (then) capable of an "all day, unflustered 90mph". Beautiful bikes, happy days!! (the Spada wasn't out then!)

[@richardthibert3222]

Should not shake if tyre ok check the bearing. I change mine at $135k.

[@WildlifeMoto]

The bike is now in pieces (full rebuild in progress), so these will get changed :)

[@auliaprimananda9414]

Hello... How to check your fuel availibility in tank since there is no indicator of fuel gauge meter ?

[@WildlifeMoto]

Easy. Reset the trip mileage when you fill up and start looking to refuel around 150miles. Failing that, wait until you run out, switch it to reserve and head to a station ASAP.

[@GhostRiderUK]

Hey, are you still using the same mic set up with the hammer mic? Unbelievable sound

[@WildlifeMoto]

Hi, yes still using the cheap Hama 57152 when on the bike. I use a Rhode wireless mic off the bike.

[@GhostRiderUK]

@@WildlifeMoto legend, thanks brother. Sounds great

[@andymueller82]

Hi great video! I own a 1981 R100CS in Classic Black. Very curious to know what device you use to keep your video so nice and shake-free. I struggle with that a bit when handholding a GoPro for instance. Any help with product description is appreciated.

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks Andy. I while back I made a video on my GoPro set up. You can find it here on my Wildlife Moto Extra Channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKSld5mtqdF3nck

[@andymueller82]

@@WildlifeMoto That is great, thank you for the information!

[@jamesgordon4754]

Very impressive. What's the mileage n yours?

[@WildlifeMoto]

Thanks. Around 58k.

[@andikarkalake3750]

Sehr schönes Motorrad 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@AnalogDude_]

hahah, Bentley continental GT. 19:50 awesome, smoothness.

[@tonymunn]

Ride my '78 R100 RS with it's ATE brakes or my '94 R100 GS PD with it single front disc and you will be singing praises to the dual disc Brembo '81 R100 CS. My '82 R100 RT's brakes are amazing in comparison.

[@WildlifeMoto]

It turns out the discs were warped and my pads badly worn out. I’m sure the brakes will be a lot better once this is sorted.

[@441rider]

@@WildlifeMoto Warped rear disc I had caused head wobble above 140kph.

[@dasboototto]

You think those brakes are crap? Try the drum brakes of a /5

[@WildlifeMoto]

Mine were pretty awful as the discs were warped and the pads in bad condition. They have since been rebuilt and are working very well indeed. The drum on the rear is still awful after the rebuild.

[@adriantwiss600]

That filler cap suggests the tank is a series 5 or 6 tank. 7 series and beyond had a flush filler.

[@WildlifeMoto]

It’s an aftermarket filler cap that screws into the tank.

[@adriantwiss600]

@@WildlifeMoto Ah

[@WildlifeMoto]

@@adriantwiss600 I did have to run back to my garage and check lol. So the monza cap sleeve screws into the tank. It has a threaded collar that sits proud of the tank for the cap to screw down on to. It came with the bike but I actually prefer the look of the flush OEM cap. I might try and find one.

[@pdm2201]

My 1982 R100CS came with a flush petrol cap. All of them did. These bikes have excellent passing speed (30-70 mph). According to my owners manual the CS could run the quarter mile in 13.1 sec. Not bad for a 40 year old shaft drive air head. The only items needing replacement were the clock, the speedometer, the dashboard lights, and the diaphragms in the carbs.