BMW R100

The R100 models received a double disc brake in the front wheel. For 1976 to 1979 models the front brake was a pivot caliper ATE disc actuated from the controls via cable to a brake master cylinder under the tank. From 1980 models onwards front brakes were changed to a Brembo fixed caliper brake, and the master cylinder was moved from undertank to the right handlebar. With the introduction of Monolever models in 1986, the Brembo fixed calipers were mounted on the fork tubes. The back brake was initially a drum brake. Starting in the 1978 model year (September 1977), the R100RS, RT and S models received a Brembo rear disc brake with fixed caliper on the rear wheel, and from model year 1986 the drum brake returned.

The models originally were fitted with wire spoked wheels, but in September 1977 for the 78 model year shifted to an aluminum cast "snowflake" pattern. The initial aluminum wheels were prone to breakage, prompting a BMW recall for replacement.

In keeping with the evolutionary development of the Boxer line, the engine was a laterally opposed 2-cylinder boxer engine with lower camshaft and overhead valves. Driving the camshaft was a duplex (later simplex) chain with a spring-loaded chain tensioner. The clutch was a single dry plate with cable actuation. A 5-speed manual transmission, with an optional kickstarter for the early models, and shaft drive to the rear wheel completed the drivetrain.

A constant velocity carburetor was supplied by Bing. Starting in 1980, an emissions control system was implemented in various countries, which reduced available horsepower by approximately 10%.

The front forks were telescopic with a diameter of 36 mm without gaiters. 1984 and prior had a dual swing arm with two shock absorbers, model year 1986 and after used the BMW monolever, 1988 and after used the BMW paralever.

Up to model year 1978, a points type high-voltage capacitor ignition was used. From 1978 onwards, an electronic ignition was fitted.