1986 BMW R 80 G/S Paris-Dakar

Engine No. 09860012


Transmission No. ZSA131047



What's in a name? Well, for the BMW R 80 G/S line of motorcycles-particularly the limited edition Paris-Dakar models-quite a lot! For starters, most enthusiasts know that R 80 designates the horizontally opposed "boxer" engine type in an 800-cc capacity. The G/S designation, G for Gelände (off-road) and S for Straße (street), indicates not only its dual-sport nature, but also in 1980, the debut of a new type of motorcycle. In an interview with Motorcycle News, legendary BMW designer Hans Muth conceived the idea when he glimpsed his newly purchased Range Rover outside his office window and declared to a colleague, "Let's make a two-wheeled one of those!"



Clad in BMW Motorsport colors, the model debuted to the press in Avignon, France, on 1 September 1980. With no true adventure class yet defined, its blend of off-road ability and road comfort surprised journalists, while buyers responded even more enthusiastically, with 6,631 sold in the first year-more than double expectations. As much as the public enjoyed the G/S, it is perhaps best remembered for its Paris-Dakar Rally wins in 1981 and 1983-1985. BMW Motorsport enthusiasts were enamored with the success, and BMW was prompted to create option code 719, the Paris-Dakar Special Edition. This rare R 80 G/S special edition featured a large 32-liter long-distance "Gaston Rahier" fuel tank, red seat, rear rack, and exciting Paris-Dakar graphics and BMW Motorsport colors on an Alpinweiß backdrop.



According to its BMW Birth Certificate this 1986 BMW R 80 G/S is one of the rare few built at the Berlin factory as a true Paris-Dakar. It is believed that approximately 200 per year were so ordered, while numerous additional examples were later converted through BMW's expansive dealer network. The certificate records two options: a kickstarter and a cylinder protection bar with delivery to Zweirad-Wüdo on 26 March 1986. Perhaps even more compelling are the tasteful additions of numerous period-correct BMW accessories. These include handguards, a seldom-seen MotoMeter tachometer and clock, side racks with matching hard-case G/S panniers, and its luggage rack fitted with a leather case. For an adventure bike it must be said that it remains in impressive original condition, clearly cared for with a preservation mindset from new. A specialist inspection upon consignment reveals that after 39 years, the rare motorcycle retains its original engine as per its BMW Birth Certificate.



It is offered with its original old German Kraftfahrzeugbrief and current Belgian registration documents, keys for both bike and panniers, and tools. Furthermore, the history file includes period literature and a service history file. With just over 38,400 kilometers at cataloging, this rare factory-built BMW R 80 G/S Paris-Dakar captures the very essence of BMW's adventurous spirit. Equal parts rally legend and versatile road companion, it offers the next owner the rare chance to experience the motorcycle that started it all-as a thrilling long-distance mount, a weekend escape machine, or a show-stopping centerpiece in any collection.