BMW R80 G/S
85/100 Overall
77 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R80 G/S vs Honda VF750F
BMW R80 G/S scores 85/100 overall against Honda VF750F on 84/100. On the road: 77–78. As classics: 93–90. Overall result: BMW R80 G/S.
Photo: Rainmaker47 · CC BY-SA 3.0
Honda VF750F
84/100 Overall
78 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R80 G/S | Honda VF750F | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 9 | Honda VF750F |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 9 | Honda VF750F |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 9 | Honda VF750F |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 7 | BMW R80 G/S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 6 | BMW R80 G/S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | BMW R80 G/S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Honda VF750F |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | BMW R80 G/S |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | BMW R80 G/S |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 9 | 9 | Level |
Choose the BMW R80 G/S if…
you want the pioneering large-capacity adventure bike, combining simple boxer engineering with genuine all-road ability.
Choose the Honda VF750F if…
you want advanced Honda V4 engineering, strong performance and one of the machines that defined the move into modern 1980s superbikes.
Background
History
BMW R80 G/S
The BMW R80 G/S was produced from 1980–1987 and used a 797.5cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, historic importance and character. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Honda VF750F
The Honda VF750F was produced from 1983–1985 and used a 748cc liquid-cooled DOHC V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R80 G/S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1980 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 797.5cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, historic importance and character.
Honda VF750F
- Its production span in this library runs from 1983 to 1985.
- The recorded engine description is: 748cc liquid-cooled DOHC V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R80 G/S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R80 G/S. Its library score for collector appeal is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda VF750F
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda VF750F. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R80 G/S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda VF750F
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the BMW R80 G/S
Rivals to the Honda VF750F
Final result
The verdict
Honda VF750F wins the direct on-the-road comparison. BMW R80 G/S wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R80 G/S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.