1979 BMW R 100 RS

1979 BMW R 100 RS sits at the top of BMW's touring lineup, the flagship that put the airhead boxer twin into a fully faired, autobahn-capable package. This is a motorcycle built for covering serious distance at speed, with a full fairing that actually does its job of cutting wind blast on long stretches at 100 mph-plus, letting the rider arrive at the far end without being beaten up by the trip. The boxer engine's low center of gravity and shaft drive make it a relaxed, low-maintenance companion rather than a twitchy sportbike, rewarding smooth inputs over aggressive throttle work. It's a bike that feels more like a fast-touring instrument than a corner-carving weapon.

The 1979 model carried over without significant mechanical changes from the prior year — buyers comparing it to a 1978 example should focus on mileage, service history, and condition rather than spec differences.

Owners tend to be experienced riders who've moved past sportbikes and want something they can ride to another country without drama. Collector interest in the 1979 BMW R 100 RS remains moderate, appealing to those drawn to BMW's airhead era rather than pure speculation.