In 1993, BMW’s boxer engine was saved from extinction by the “oil head” engine designed by Motorrad chief Dr. Burkhard Göschel. Introduced in the R 1100 RS, the engine’s four-valve cylinder heads were cooled by air and pump-circulated oil. The RS also introduced the Telelever front end, paired with the Paralever rear suspension. In 1994, the R 1100 RS was used for BMW NA’s Battle of the Legends series, and the bike seen here was raced to victory at Sears Point by three-time AMA Superbike champion Reg Pridmore.

For more pictures and information on this or any other vehicle in the Motorcycles exhibit, check out the exhibition book in our store!