🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1100 R / R850 R

Model Variant:

R1100 R, R850 R

Production Years Covered:

1994-2005

Chassis Codes:

R1100R (259R), R850R (259R)

👋 Introduction

Model Segment:

Sport-touring / Roadster motorcycle.

Key Competitors:

Honda VFR, Yamaha FJ1200, Kawasaki GTR1000, Moto Guzzi California.

Engine Layout:

BMW's signature Boxer twin engine, known for its low center of gravity and smooth power delivery.

Suspension Technology:

Innovative Telelever front suspension for superior ride quality and handling, Monolever rear drive.

Braking System:

Advanced ABS braking systems (ABS II and Integral ABS) offering enhanced safety.

Build Quality:

Reputation for robust construction and German engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily European and North American markets)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (typically 500+ pages for full service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Content Focus:

Technical repair procedures and specifications.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Illustrations:

Illustrated with clear step-by-step instructions.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed coverage of the BMW Boxer twin-cylinder, four-stroke, air/oil-cooled engine.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, and tank.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition system, coils, spark plugs, and control unit.

Transmission:

Clutch, gearbox (5-speed), final drive, and associated components.

Chassis Frame:

Frame construction, subframe, and related hardware.

Suspension:

Front Telelever suspension, rear Monolever swingarm, shock absorber, and forks.

Brakes:

ABS II (or optional integral ABS), front and rear brake discs, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, and fluid.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and control modules.

Bodywork:

Fairings, fuel tank, seat, fenders, and other body panels.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire sizing, and mounting procedures.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, valve adjustments, brake fluid flushes, and lubrication schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation (if applicable).

Engine Repair:

Top-end rebuilds (cylinder head, valves), bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods), oil pump, and cooling system.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, final drive service.

Suspension And Steering Service:

Fork seal replacement, shock absorber overhaul, Telelever and Monolever linkage service.

Brake System Overhaul:

Bleeding procedures, caliper rebuilding, master cylinder replacement, ABS system diagnostics.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness inspection, component testing, charging system analysis, and troubleshooting lighting issues.

Bodywork And Fairing Repair:

Panel removal and installation, mounting hardware, and cosmetic repairs.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Information:

Detailed troubleshooting guides, expected specifications, and common failure points.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Digital Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat twin (Boxer) engine.

Displacement R1100:

1085 cc

Displacement R850:

848 cc

Bore X Stroke R1100:

99 mm x 70.5 mm

Bore X Stroke R850:

85 mm x 73 mm

Compression Ratio R1100:

10.7:1

Compression Ratio R850:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, pushrod operated, overhead camshafts (OHV with pushrods).

Horsepower R1100:

Approx. 90 HP @ 6750 rpm

Horsepower R850:

Approx. 70 HP @ 7500 rpm

Torque R1100:

Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm

Torque R850:

Approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2 or similar).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2.

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 25 Liters (6.6 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 3.46, 2nd: 2.52, 3rd: 1.92, 4th: 1.53, 5th: 1.26).

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 90 (or equivalent API GL-5).

📐 Dimensions

Length Approx:

2230 mm (87.8 in)

Width Approx:

850 mm (33.5 in)

Height Approx:

1290 mm (50.8 in)

Dry Weight R1100:

Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)

Dry Weight R850:

Approx. 220 kg (485 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate (typically around 450-470 kg).

Seat Height Approx:

800-820 mm (31.5-32.3 in), adjustable on some models.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

CE, DOT (depending on market).

ABS System:

Standard or optional ABS II or Integral ABS II braking system.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, multi-reflector taillight and turn signals.

Frame Integrity:

Robust steel-trellis frame providing structural rigidity.

Ergonomics:

Designed for comfortable rider control and visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Primarily focused on function; typically no advanced infotainment systems. May have optional heated grips.

ABS System Integration:

ABS systems are a key technological feature, significantly enhancing braking safety.

Diagnostic Port:

Diagnostic port available for connection to BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, MoDiTec) for advanced fault finding.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Inspection:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles); replace as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 15W-40 or 15W-50 API SG or higher (e.g., Castrol Power 1 4T).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4 Liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Coolant Type:

BMW Premium Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) for oil cooler circuit if applicable, otherwise no coolant needed for main engine.

Common Problems Potential:

Stretched timing chain guides, occasional ABS sensor failures, fuel pump issues, worn clutch plates, Telelever pivot wear.

Maintenance Considerations:

Regular valve clearance checks are crucial for engine health. Thorough inspection of the Telelever and Monolever linkage points for wear is recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:

BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to 1923, renowned for engineering innovation and durability.

R1100 R Introduction:

The R1100 R was introduced in 1994 as a naked roadster variant of the R1100 GS and R1100 RT, emphasizing sportier ergonomics and styling.

R850 R Introduction:

The R850 R was introduced as a more accessible, slightly detuned version of the R1100 R, often with a lower seat height and slightly different power output.

Engine Platform:

These models utilized the new 1100cc (and 850cc) Boxer engine platform which saw BMW move from older airhead designs to a more modern oil-cooled configuration with fuel injection.

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Acclaim:

While specific awards are not consistently documented, the R1100 R and R850 R were well-regarded for their robust engineering, comfort, and the unique character of the Boxer engine and Telelever suspension.