[Ep 18] So You Wanna Build a BMW K-bike - Sharing A Few Things I Learned

Just a chill exposition consisting of some info for model differences when looking for one, compatibilities, things to look out for, parts sources, and general subjective advice after building on myself.
----RESOURCES IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE OR MENTION-----
K-Bike History Video
• BMW K-Bike History (K1...
My K100 Build Episode 1
• [Ep 01] 1986 BMW K100 ...
Article highlighting history of K bikes
www.motorcycli...
Quick forum post discussing differences in 2v and 4v models and Jetronic/Motronic
www.k100-forum...
Monolever and Paralever Info (The Physics)
largiader.com/p...
Monolever to Paralever Conversion info
www.motobrick.c...
Cognito Moto for fork swap stuff
cognitomoto.com/
Quick forum post discussing Rear wheel swaps.
www.k100-forum...
Old BMW wheel to USD forks kit
cognitomoto.co...
R1100GS wire wheel on a k100 outline
www.motobrick.c...
1200cc engine swap outline
www.k100-forum...
Larger output Alternator swap info
www.kbikeparts....
Retrorides subframe and suspension guide
retroridesbylo...
Chris Harris, A BMW bike guru
/ @chrisr.harris
Starter sprag clutch issues outline and info
bmwmotorcyclet...
Ebay
www.ebay.com/
Max BMW Parts
shop.maxbmw.co...
EuroMotoElectrics
www.euromotoel...
BMW K100 Jetronic Fuel injection info and troubleshooting
bmwmotorcyclet...
My Fuel injection rewire video with M unit
• [Ep 12] 1986 BMW K100 ...
MIKEYFROMPIHA's rewire videos
• BMW K100 MOTOGADGET M-...
CafeRacer Web shop
www.caferacerw...
Caf4racer shop
cafe4racer.eu/en/
BSK Speedworks shop
www.bskspeedwo...
BMW K100 turbo info
rbracing-rsr.c...
__________________________________
My social media!
Instagram - / theillestrator_nyc
Facebook - / the-illestrator-191640...
Twitter - / illestratornyc

[@Mobiusshazarr]

I have never once looked at an old BMW bike and thought, "I'd love to own one of these". Then you came along, now I'm sitting here thinking about how i would do things differently than you did style wise. I can't tell if you're brilliant, evil, or both. Now I'm going to go to rewatch the whole build again.

[@966396631]

Notice: this is not a build story. This is a love story. And it’s a legitimate masterpiece that makes Romeo and Juillette seem like a hack job. Thank you.

[@bryanwilkinson6859]

my own k75 has served me well.

[@michaeljkasnter]

I can listen to this guy talk about how paint drys

[@cinebenjamin]

I don't know how many times I've watched this video... lol I have one sitting in my garage waiting to be torn apart.

[@dayneeastman1316]

It sets the mind at ease when someone has this amount of knowledge on something as complicated as a family of BMW motorcycles

[@UncleDon226]

I cant believe this is the same dude who bought that old green BMW with very little knowledge, but a clear vision. Its astonishing how familiar you have become with these. You probably put more hours into studying the K bike than other people have put into college degrees. And you best believe I'm gonna be in your DMs if I pick up one of these machines. Cant wait for the final reveal.

[@shrimpboychan]

I found your channel because I am researching a K100 build. You do such a great job putting your videos together and you explain things in ways I can easily understand. I appreciate you dropping knowledge after having already done the build... stupid valuable! Instant sub. Hope you make more BMW videos again!

[@bretr427]

Said it once I'll say it again this build is 🔥💯 The passion you put into this bike shows. Illestrator's Custom Bike Shop coming soon 👍

[@thomasleonard8789]

Someone need to be paying you for your abilities, I feel like RevZilla could absolutely use you in their content department. Your thoroughness, presentation, and aesthetic style are unique and so enriching to the KZbin motorcycle space. In a world where everyone is yelling at the camera proclaiming their enthusiasm for motorcycles, the illestrator is here calmly bludgeoning me with a wall of text script that proves it.

[@Thewatson77]

Dude this was worth the work 👍🏼 I enjoyed watching the build series and to hear this breakdown really pulls it all together. I’ve got a buddy that just picked up a K100 from CL. It was the classic “just needs to be wired up” add 😂🤣 I told him about you and your build series so he would be exceptionally thrilled that you were as thorough as you were with the entire series. Stay safe man ✌🏼

[@TrentFalkenrath]

Good morning. I just recently took possession of my great grandma's '60s Honda Sport 50. In short, it's basically a scooter that's cosplaying as a "real" motorcycle. It has a manual transmission, clutch lever, and looks a bit like a CB style bike despite being 20 years older. I plan on resto-modding it in the near future. Your build series helped give me confidence to take this on. So, thanks man. Stay safe.

[@rescuepilot26]

Hey mate, I’m from Australia. Bought a K100 which should be arriving in a few weeks. You’ve given me a lot of insight into what I need and makes me feel very comfortable with what to do and what to look for! Thank you so much man!

[@Josh.20001]

Thanks for all the information, I know nothing about motorcycles, but I’ve worked on cars for all my life, fell in love with the k100 BMW bikes 100% building one. Very glad there’s so much information on them!

[@petequinones3454]

That 5 star wheel from the 1200cc is FIRE... That would be my choice if I were to restore a K-Bike. Your build came out really nice for not having a shop or garage to work in. You've inspired so many people to start there projects even if conditions aren't always ideal, it can be done. And have great results.👍👍

[@Justk75]

This is one hell of a lesson on k bikes .fantastic ✌️🏍amazingly narrated with so much info .thank you 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@petedavis1040]

Honestly bro this was all a labor of luv and we appreciate you making us a part of it. Now we all know the trails and tribulations of building, Sourcing and finishing a k bike project from a person state side. I wouldn’t do it because I can’t even imagine how much Guap you shelled out to see the end of this one. I’d prefer something Japanese, Old Italian or older American being they’re easier to source parts, simpler to find and cheaper to maintain while building. Needless to say, thank you 🙏🏽 for making this one!

[@fanepoe9910]

I started a k1100 build and you have no clue how much I appreciate the help that your videos have been.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Fantastic. You've put a load of work into this project, even the video at the end of it all. And you really didn't do it for pay. This is the attitude of the resourceful people in the USA. Keep it up!

[@chesterha11]

Currently looking to modify my father's k100 sitting in my mom's shed. I will be in touch!

[@culinary7684]

I'm late to the party, but never too late thought. A week ago I picked up my 1986 K100RS in pretty much good condition (apart from few oil leaks, just BMW things). Plan is to build it to be pleasant to look at. I might have lucked out with the budget since the fairings were painted 2 years ago and look brand new. Selling all useless parts. After watching this video I am still going to keep my original plan. I gave myself time upcoming winter to build the bike, but not going to mess with any electronics now. I will brief myself with your video series on the build, thank you.

[@butlersracing7692]

As a mechanic and fabricator for over 16 years can honestly say that's a pain the arse. Kudos to you though for attempting it. Nice!!!

[@Theillestrator1050]

Definitely the hardest part

[@therealgaragegirls]

Thank you for this primer on K bikes. I am just beginning to go down this rabbit hole. Your video seems to cover so much!

[@DOOM1715]

Dude I love your K, especially being your first build is nothing short of incredible. Well done

[@carlcarlamos9055]

Excellent, not only someone who seems to have a handle on the subject, but can also articulate it as well. Thanks. Take care.

[@АнтонСлагода]

There is no more such informative video about custom of K-serries as yours. Thank you for you videos and good luck!

[@Tarpking]

Great host for learning the process in this sort of project. The history lessen is a bonus for me as I am considering a K. I plan not to mod. Getting some of those issues sorted will take long enough. Cheers.

[@Umarluch]

I'm thinking of making my bicycle driving license in 2024 and I always wanted BMW bike since I was a kid. I used to be in love with WW2 R35, but it's a collector item nowadays. So my eyes are looking at K1100LT/RS right now.. And I think they are awesome looking!

[@LilJRider]

This is the 1st vid that i can honestly say... i watched the whole vid while eating a bowl of shredded Parmigiano cheese and maple syrup... 🇨🇦🇱🇷🇰🇷

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

I gotta try that combo. Which brands do you recommend?

[@sheldonhighsmith3333]

I love k bikes!!!!!! The process of building or rebuilding something as weird yet unique as a k bike is thrilling and turns all frustration of the build into hard working non forgettable experiences 👍 😀

[@ItsTavs]

im about to buy my k100rs.. found an amazing deal from a friend who kept it in good running condition.. keep the videos coming, i can listen to you all day

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

I'm not interested in owning naked bikes, much less custom ones...but this build was so interesting, I had to watch the video. The bike turned out beautiful and unique. I'm sure it has a lot of presence in person. Awesome job, brother. You built something that is totally you and no one else has. God bless!

[@willdavis8314]

Dude this has got to be the most informative video on a motorcycle series I’ve ever seen. Big props man you killed it

[@wasabifiend]

The history of the K bike was awesome!

[@dutchsailor6620]

I have run my K100RS/4V to the north cape(Norway), Gibraltar and Turkey. The only problem I ever had that needed an instant repair was a clogged up fuel filter, my bad. Easy to replace. Best thing to carry with both my K100 and R1100GS are laminated wiring diagrams of the bikes. Electrical problems can be a nightmare on these bikes and the diagrams can really help you out. The engines will run almost forever when well maintained. Both bikes are well over 240,000 km now (each) and still going strong.

[@atomicdmt8763]

outstanding, sir! So much important info you packed in............glad I held on to my 85 K100 / havent yet taken the custom dive

[@aidanduclos8467]

The reason I have a K bike / building one is because of YOU! Very inspirational man, much appreciated! 👍

[@pcostadias]

You’re the best my friend! I actually fell in love with the original design of my k11 when i started not liking the bike at all! I guess that’s what the flying brick was made for, fall in love! Keep it up! Props From Lisbon!

[@nogocux]

Great contest, nice hints and great value for newbies. Just one point, you need a stand! 😂

[@danewood2309]

I'm in the UK. When I took my 1984 K100RS in for her compulsory yearly Ministry of Transport road worthiness test (MOT Test), I had only just stripped all the fairing off , she failed due to the forks slapping the tank...I didn't know that the "bump stop" is on the fairing mounting frame.....the mechanic sorted it out by welding two small pieces of steel square section rod onto the headstock creating a new" bump stop" on either side

[@berndrunde2203]

I almost binge- watched your k serial and I loved it. I myself got a K100rs 4v recently with the intention of coffeeing it. I'm not sure now though. first: the condition of that bike is quite good that it maybe a shame to take that 30y old bike apart but secondly - and that is what I can't thank enough for - you put on display how complex it is... I'll pause this year do my researches first for sure! THX

[@Steve_MFr]

What a GFV, a great vid. I am into all sorts of cars, bikes and whatnot, and aside from a few books I bought in the last century (literally), this is by far the best resource I have seen on any vehicle. I was trying to decide what the next build project will be, and this sealed it for me. THANK YOU!

[@thundercactus]

The weird geometry of the tank, and the potential of having a non-flat seat with some character in it is half of why I really like the K series cafe racers. The other half is the brick engine, there's just nothing else like it, and it's an interesting solid shape as opposed to all the weird variations of twin engines that almost exclusively leave that weird gap under the back end of the fuel tank where the air pods are usually mounted. So in a way, it's kind of a backwards aesthetic; the engine has really good lines and fills the right amount of space, and the tank and seat are the awkward shapes.

[@pablononpicasso1977]

Man, I won't get that 26 minutes back. Worth it! 👌

[@theyshouldhavenevergivenme5439]

this guy talks so incredibly fast, it becomes a real chore to follow along when English is not your main language.. I found myself skipping back a lot just to catch what my man just said ;;) other than that he's dropping some real knowledge for sure!

[@peterduncan1322]

OMG, my friend you are incredibly knowledgeable wow. I recently fell in love with both the K line and the R line of BMW , leaning more towards the K right now for a donor simply because the cost of any R100 is skyrocketed since their popularity has increased ... My hat is off to you, I have two friends who do custom Honda CBX builds and use the Mega Squirt in allot of builds , yet if I mention that all things are now controlled through the Mega Squirt to others , most times I get a blank look and a response of " A Mega what ???? " lol. For sure i'll check out some of your others video's ,thanks .....

[@chrisjet10001]

Great content man! Thank you for taking the time to put all this info together. I've been fallowing you from the beginning and I'm so happy to see that you didn't give up! you've inspired me to start my K1100 project and for that I thank you again.

[@chrisjet10001]

Update: I'm Finally finishing up the k-bike and it got excepted into the Hand-built show in Austin TX 2023!

[@wilgarcia1]

You've done such a grate job man. Kudos. So many others would have given up so long ago.

[@Crush0819]

You are the man my brother all the knowledge and info you share with us is amazing we appreciate you for your time and your dedication

[@Milkybar3320011]

Just found your channel, a wealth of great information which is refreshing. Thank you.

[@lewistaylor1965]

My brain hurts...I'm gonna stick with my boxer...I was confused after the first 30 seconds...but I watched til the end cos I loved the vid and narration...Great job...Kudos from the UK!

[@S4WYERonPC]

Absolutely the best way to start the day...when you see a new illestrator video :D

[@andrewhayes4246]

Man, you are like an information machine-gun! Love it. 👍

[@SuperK75th]

Great content, thank you for really breaking down what needs to happen for as K-bike conversion.

[@F6FHellcat5]

I'm likely about to buy an '85 K100RS, though I'm gonna keep it stock so I can do some sport touring. Found your stuff while doing research on these bikes after a K75 caught my eye a while ago, and the idea of getting a K bike has grown on me more and more.

[@distilledpusswater8473]

Happy i found you, You’re awesome man. Just got a 1985 k100rs.

[@raybrensike42]

Remember that if you move a rear wheel out to one side by a thicker spacer you will throw off the way the bike tracks, or it's center of gravity which will be shifted slightly to one side and when you let your hands off the bars it will go to that side. While riding you will likely notice you have to exert more effort on the bars on one side, unless you did something to compensate for that thicker spacer.

[@M-POLEN]

Bro no lie you scared the fuck out of me with this video i’m not even sure if I wanna do it anymore lol

[@phillipwilliams9482]

I totally feel your pain with hunting down a virago, I think if all goes well with thes hurricanes today, I think I'll pull the trigger on one.

[@TheHamPimp]

Just a TON of good info in this. As a newb, thank you!

[@ohbogey]

If Mr. Mackey had one, it would be a M'kay bike😅 congratulations on finishing her up!

[@mauriciocorrea14]

Another amazing K bike video! Thanks man. I’m building one too, I just got it running, now it’s time for the customizations. You are a great inspiration.

[@ludovicverbeeck]

great stuff mate! as usual :) i finished my k1100 and i'm glad i took a more recent one

[@Eight20]

Great video dude, some good info in there! If it was me and I was gonna do it again, I would go K1100 over K100 everyday!

[@crimsonking2023]

This was some good info I’m starting to build this 2000 k1200rs I have into a cafe racer

[@Noahh_jp]

I have no idea whats going on in this video but I am sticking to my oath to watch and comment on every single video.

[@qibble455]

10/10 Really interesting video. I've always liked those K bikes, Now I'd like to rebuild one into a max cafe:D

[@wilgarcia1]

Ya know, I've never noticed my shaft driven bike (vt1100c2) doesn't lean back on acceleration. It is my first bike though, so it's what I'm used to. I love that feeling of its just goes forward no fuss no muss no feeling like I might wheelie if I push it too far. I will read up on the handling aspects though. That I didn't know about.

[@aianmyself]

Been waiting for the update 🙌🏻

[@BECREATIVEBEGREAT]

Man this is so good bro. I’m planning on getting a k75. It would also be my first bike for the experience. Love the freaking look. Thanks for your videos. Hope it goes well, i found a nice one in really good condition, but like you said, i still have to take a look for myself.

[@janbozic6939]

Illestrator, Kudos! and many congrats and thanks for this video which we can all us builders benefit from. If you only could just add timestamps, this would be the best refference video for caffe Bmw K.

[@keithappel5021]

I agree with Michael you are very easy to listen to I’m looking for episode 19 and possibly 20 or is 18 the last one you produced I’ve been looking but I cannot find anything

[@haraldalbrecht6133]

Uhh, wow , - what a wonderful " flying brick" ! a little bit look-a-like the first Buell's: reduced, but massive, for me like a mammouth..❤️👍. Sorry, men but you're so great with your creativity! With honour, 10000 miles away over the Atlantic/ but just one click I can feel your spirit. 💪🏻. With frienly greetings from rhineland pallatinate- Germany !!👋🏻👋🏻🤘😍

[@haraldalbrecht6133]

...friendly... sorry for my bad English...😳

[@crxman33]

Very helpful. Trying to decide if I want to build one

[@JohnBehring]

So awesome to see a new post! That bike is looking nioce.

[@chrisdeyo5392]

Hey man, you have an immense amount of knowledge on these bikes. I live upstate from you, in catskill. I just picked up an absolute beauty 1989 k100rs-se. For free!!!!!!! Was left on a property for years, abandoned in a shed. Was given to me by the property owner. It seems to be in really good shape. Maybe somehow we can link up and go over this bike. I'd happily pay you for your time. I have a truck and could bring the bike to you. Or you could take a nice ride up here. Anyhow, I'd love to meet you and learn some cool shit about this bike.

[@kourtneemaxfield208]

How are you not at 100k subz by now , with this quality content you be producing

[@stevesonnyday]

Fantastic video.

[@jonaseckert6926]

Yoo, I just saw the actual you in the feature by stories of riders. Youve got an awesome style !

[@MANOSS1111]

broooooo you're smooth! I'm educated and entertained

[@hooshangmaster]

i know this was 4 years ago but this was very useful.

[@ImVladdy]

man, this is a great video, and thanks for the resources you posted here! I just picked up my 1996 k1100RS. and was planning to finish the riding season and then service everything and build it during winter but as it turned looks like I just spun all clutch splines((( so decided if I'm going to disassemble half bike to fix the clutch than it make sense do everything and start the project now) definitely will be back to your videos.

[@HR3EEE]

Good ol Brownsville ENY corridor. We should link up. Great vids.

[@NewYorkCityonTwoWheels]

Holy moly, this is serious research.

[@dougparedes1911]

Great Video, I am preparing to convert my 1992 K75 we see how it go, thanks again

[@davidbranch1077]

Heck...if this guy had the time, he can go into business building bikes for others.👍💯

[@Kakashi0008]

I'm gonna buy an K100RS from 1990 in the Netherlands tomorrow, it has the 16 valve engine and the Paralever.

[@ducatinyc]

You’re a rockstar, my dude.

[@teamgonzo9289]

We used to call these bikes the "flying brick!!!" on track days!! And for years I've secretly loved the k1. Would like to make a sleeper out of it. Turbocharged, intercooled, fuel injected, and stroke & bored. A low compression ratio, rubbing alcohol tank & water injection. I wouldn't be able to stop myself! Titanium valves, especially ground camshafts, (turbo) let's keep it European, Ohlins suspension, radial calipers, ect........ Where it ends in divorce. 🤣😆😂

[@luthaeris1]

Ah love the k bike series. Awesome!

[@trasher2848]

Damn man, thanks for this comprehensive review and all the valuable information! Much apreciated!

[@MrSekou87442]

You have inspired to build a K bike 🏍 I want to start with a rs1200 and knock the ugly off it. Keep the good stuff and hp but wrapping it in a pretty RS1100 package 📦 any advice or info. Keep making these awesome video’s I’m sure I’m not the only one you have inspired 🥃😎

[@atibaedwards6587]

You driving around my old hood lol that’s Brownsville. I went to high school over there too

[@chantmedia-xs5vr]

CB’s seem to cost quite a bit more than K’s here in Germany. There’s so many good condition K’s for sale here for €1,500 to €2,500 while the CB’s are like 2,500+. I’m thinking that German TUV requirements and overall culture will mean the K’s won’t need too much in terms of maintenance. Thanks for the guide mate!

[@wheatwatcher5813]

Great video mate. It's a huge accomplishment.

[@christophercake7419]

Excellent video! Makes me want to get one!

[@Jayneflakes]

Thanks for another interesting video. I love your work on the BMW, she was worth the effort.

[@hman8942]

Great video! Here in Oz there doesnt seem to be many of them around but definitely worth the effort!

[@michaels7168]

You don’t happen to have the full vids of the sprag clutch / bell housing / clutch / gearbox reassembly do you? I inherited a mid-project K1 and could use a vid-how-to as an assist. Great vid collection btw, and great build!

[@travisbickle131]

awesome content Holmes, and this is from a Harley dude.

[@markopolo945]

Happy Hump Day Bro!!!!! Loved this!!!