BMW have been a fan of the opposed twin “boxer” engine across the frame since they started building motorbikes in the early 1920s. Coupled with superb engineering and a shaft drive, the architecture proved to be reliable and capable through any and all terrains. Then, some 40-odd years ago, the GS was introduced. An on/off road machine with generous ground clearance and high-level exhaust system enabling comfortable long distance touring on freeways, back roads or no road at all. And a new genre of dual-sport adventure riding was born, and made famous by Ewan McGregor’s multiple “around the world” adventures with riding pal, Charlie Boardman. The vintage GS has become increasingly popular for those intrepid explorers, as spoke wheels and carburetors are more manageable in the remotest of places.
As per their website: Los Angeles-based Roughchild Motorcycles are original BMW motorcycles from the 1970’s and 1980’s that have been re-engineered and optimized with 21st century technology. All Roughchild motorcycle builds are custom and unique to the specific rider and riding style with daily use in mind.
The 1989 BMW R100GS on offer here started life as a rough Alpine White with blue seat model, before getting the full Roughchild treatment. Original Bumble-bee front forks were sourced and suspend a black-finished Akront front rim and high front fender. Above that, the original headlight fairing houses a modern LED headlight. A NOS BMW optional pod-mounted tachometer was added, and upon completion, the original odometer reports 42,743 miles and the warning lights have all been replaced with LEDs. The handlebars and everything mounted to them is NOS. The original, refinished crash bars are adorned with an oil cooler on one side and a PIAA spotlight on the other. The exhaust starts with Germany’s Hattech stainless headers with cross-over. At the heart is a fully rebuilt, crank-out refurbished engine with new pistons, valves, head, etc. with light weight, high-torque starter motor. The driveshaft and gearbox were thoroughly rebuilt, the latter getting an aftermarket shifter from Siebenrock, which complements the Touratech footpegs. The original exhaust was found to be in good enough condition for a refurbishment and reinstallation. A reworked seat with gel insert to the foam and new black and yellow cover sets off the aesthetics. The gas tank was repainted in glorious black with correct decals from GN and GS-specific BMW logo roundels. Touring bags came from Unit Garage in Italy and offer very sturdy luggage space.
Now with 42,914 miles on the odometer the bike is available for sale. It remains in excellent condition throughout, apart from some paint loss on the grab rail and minor wear. It starts easily, odless smoothly and offers strong power. It feels like a bike restored for a purpose, that of riding, rather than a showpiece. Not one to be missed for that classic tour.
Frame no. WB1047807K6153182
Location: Ventura, California
SOLD
