[6] The ohv engine has chain-driven camshafts mounted in the cylinder heads, operating the valves via short pushrods and rocker arms.

[11] Factory options originally available from BMW included electrically heated grips, ABS brakes and a belly-pan fairing.

magazine stated: "With underseat exhaust and plenty of ground clearance, the BMW is helped by the lack of dive under braking and makes up metres on the entry to corners.

[11] Motor Cycle News (MCN) later reviewed the R1100S, stating: "The BMW R1100S is now starting to be regarded as something of a classic, especially in BoxerCup form.

Classy styling, VFR-esque comfort and versatility plus BMW quality and residuals make for a stonking and attractive all-rounder, if not quite the sports bike BM intended…".

[13] Bike magazine commented: "The basic R1100S is good value, but we're not convinced that the high spec Sport version offers any real benefit for road riders".

The raised suspension of the BCR increased cylinder head cornering clearance (compared to the standard R1100RS), but this somewhat compromised the motorcycle for normal town/road use.

MCN compared the R1200S to its predecessor this way: "As an oddball track motorcycle it works, but as an accomplished all-rounder it falls short of the standards set by the R1100S that preceded it.