From No Spark to First Kick: A BMW R80RT Brought Back to Life with the Tri-Spark Compass

About a year ago, one of our customers unexpectedly became the owner of a 1987 BMW R80RT. His original plan was simply to buy an engine for a rare U.K. mini-bike, the Trojan Trobike. But the seller was persuasive, and he ended up heading home not only with three Clinton engines, a couple of Trokart frames—but also the BMW R80RT.

When the bike first arrived, things didn’t look so promising. Although it had started fine during the sale, by the time it was delivered it refused to fire. There was no spark, and the ignition wiring was a tangled mess.

“I’m no good with electrics,” he told us. “I tested the coil, swapped the ignition module, but still nothing. I even thought about replacing the hall sensor, but then I found the Tri-Spark Compass ignition online.”

The clear instructions gave him the confidence to give it a go. On opening the “bean can” ignition housing, he discovered bits of disintegrated gasket inside—another clue to the bike’s problems. Stripping and reassembling with the Compass kit was straightforward thanks to the step-by-step guide, and setting the timing was equally simple.

“Wiring was fortunately very simple,” he explained, “and it really reduces the complexity of the original system. Plus, replacement parts for the stock ignition are very expensive here—another reason I went with the Tri-Spark.”

The result? On the second push of the starter, the BMW burst into life.

“Very pleased! I’m even thinking about buying the Triumph Twin kit now, to adapt for my Silk Sabre 700!”

Another classic saved—and another happy rider back on the road with the help of Tri-Spark.