BMW defined new benchmarks in the segment of touring Enduros with the BMW R 100 GS launched alongside the BMW R 80 GS in 1987. This was the most powerful Enduro with the biggest displacement of its time powered by a 1000 cc Boxer engine and generating 60 hp. The innovations featured were the driving force support for the rear swing arm patented by BMW and known as the "Paralever", and the innovative cross-spoke wheels which also offered additional safety with tubeless tyres. BMW sold at least three times as many R 100 GS motorcycles in the classic version R 100 GS Paris Dakar as had been the case with the R 80 GS.