BMW followed the latest trend to larger displacement classes and presented the BMW R 80/7 in 1977 as the successor to the R 75/7. The increase in capacity compared to its predecessor was achieved by a larger bore. Over the long term, the R 80/7 also replaced the R 60/7 in the model year 1979. It therefore assumed the role of the new mid-range in the BMW Motorrad product range. Over the course of the production run until 1984, the motorcycle received numerous upgrades and modifications, including the standard twin disc brakes introduced for the front wheel in 1978 and modern cast alloy wheel rims and the sportier S-shaped bench seat in 1979.