1990 BMW K1 Classic
This iconic 1990 K1 has been in my ownership since 2017 and represents an excellent opportunity for an enthusiast looking for a mechanically sound, reliable BMW that's ready to ride or complete a cosmetic restoration.
There were only 7000 units of the K1 Superbike ever made. The K1 model continued the classic BMW Brick motor, while launching many technological breakthroughs like the lowest drag coefficient on a production motorcycle due to the superb fairing, a Para Lever rear swingarm (taken from the GS), 4 valves per cylinder, twin overhead cam, digital Motronic engine management system, ABS brakes, Fuel Injection etc.
It was the end of an era in bold marketing & styling, you either love or hate it! There are no end of press comments on the bike, two magazines will be included with the sale as pictured one dated June 1989, summing up the BMW K1 on launch.
I have fitted numerous new components:
. Rear shock absorber
. Progressive front fork springs
. Front and rear tyres
. Clutch plate and clutch boot
. Swing arm bearings
. Brake discs front and rear (not pads, disks).
. Battery
. Petrol cap seal kit installed.
. New final drive pivot bearings
. Fuel injectors cleaned with new seals & grommets & intake manifolds installed
Mechanical Condition:
The motor and gearbox are excellent – strong, and reliable. No oil leaks. This K1 runs beautifully and is great to ride.
The bike remains largely original with minimal modifications, preserving its authentic character.
Cosmetic Condition:
The bike retains its original paint with plenty of blemishes that tell the story of a used classic. I've plastic-welded panel cracks (common problem with such extensive fairings on K1s - you can see the plastic welding in the photos being black ABS plastic weld) to restore structural integrity. The front mudguard is currently removed (photos show both configurations) and would need some plastic repair for reinstallation – though many prefer the cleaner look without it.
Things that I know don’t work:
. ABS system not functioning (dash light remains on). The brakes work normally, the ABS does not. This is not a roadworthy issue.
. Odometer stuck at 81,783km (all other dash functions including speedo, tach, and lights work correctly). This is not a roadworthy issue.
Registration: Currently on club plates which cannot be transferred, so selling unregistered.
Photographs:
Photos are current but after the Magazines you get some shots of the Front Mudguard that is not currently installed, then you have historic shots I took when the mudguard was installed.
Viewing and Enquiries:
Genuine enquiries welcome – happy to arrange phone calls and inspections.