1987 BMW R 65 vs 1983 BMW R 80ST
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| Weights & Capacities |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.00 litres / 5.81 gallons | 19.00 litres / 5.02 gallons |
| Wet Weight | 205.0 kg / 451.9 lbs | 197.0 kg / 434.3 lbs |
| Performance |
| Top Speed | 178.0 km/h / 110.6 mph | 172.0 km/h / 106.9 mph |
| Engine |
| Stroke | 4 | 4 |
| Engine Type | Two cylinder boxer | Two cylinder boxer |
| Displacement (ci) | 39.60 cubic inches | 48.63 cubic inches |
| Fuel Control | OHV | OHV |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) | 82.0 x 61.5 mm | 84.8 x 70.6 mm |
| Bore x Stroke (in,) | 3.2 x 2.4 inches | 3.3 x 2.8 inches |
| Displacement (cc) | 649.00 cc | 797.00 cc |
| Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Valve System | 2 | 2 |
| Drivetrain |
| Final Drive | Shaft drive (cardan) | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single disc | Single disc |
| Brakes - Rear | Expanding brake | Expanding brake |
| Tyres - Front | 90/90-18 | 100/90-19 |
| Tyres - Rear | 120/90-18 | 120/90-18 |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 1987 BMW R 65 and the 1983 BMW R 80ST are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.
Key Differences
1987 BMW R 65 - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 1987 BMW R 65 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
1983 BMW R 80ST - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 1983 BMW R 80ST matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
1987 BMW R 65 vs 1983 BMW R 80ST - FAQs
Which should I buy, the 1987 BMW R 65 or the 1983 BMW R 80ST?
Both are strong choices. The 1987 BMW R 65 has its own strengths, while the 1983 BMW R 80ST offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.