BMW’s first new sport bike since the R 90 S, the 1998 R 1100 S installed the oil-head boxer engine in a frame with major sections in cast aluminum attached directly to the Paralever rear swingarm. The S got BMW’s first clip-on handlebars and (on a motorcycle) ellipsoid headlights, plus an aggressive seating position behind aerodynamic bodywork. The R 1100 S spawned the one-make Boxer Cup racing series, followed by the Boxer Cup Replica with carbon fiber cylinder head covers, Öhlins suspension, and a shorter Paralever. The BCR seen here was purchased new by the Lane Motor Museum in 2004.

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