BMW R80 G/S
85/100 Overall
77 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R80 G/S vs Kawasaki KLR650
BMW R80 G/S scores 85/100 overall against Kawasaki KLR650 on 75/100. On the road: 77–77. As classics: 93–73. Overall result: BMW R80 G/S.
Photo: Carsamar · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kawasaki KLR650
75/100 Overall
77 On the road73 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R80 G/S | Kawasaki KLR650 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | BMW R80 G/S |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 10 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 7 | BMW R80 G/S |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 8 | BMW R80 G/S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 6 | BMW R80 G/S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 8 | BMW R80 G/S |
Choose the BMW R80 G/S if…
you want the pioneering large-capacity adventure bike, combining simple boxer engineering with genuine all-road ability.
Choose the Kawasaki KLR650 if…
you want durable, practical long-distance trail-bike ownership with excellent parts support and uncomplicated character.
Background
History
BMW R80 G/S
The BMW R80 G/S was produced from 1980–1987 and used a 797.5cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, historic importance and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Kawasaki KLR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 was produced from 1987–2007 and used a 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R80 G/S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 797.5cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, historic importance and character.
Kawasaki KLR650
- Its production span in this library runs from 1987 to 2007.
- The recorded engine description is: 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability and character.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R80 G/S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R80 G/S. Its library score for collector appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Kawasaki KLR650
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KLR650. Its library score for ownership appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R80 G/S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Kawasaki KLR650
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the BMW R80 G/S
Rivals to the Kawasaki KLR650
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. BMW R80 G/S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R80 G/S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.