Category:
Adventure Touring / Roadster Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, professional motorcycle workshops.
Key Competitors:
Honda Varadero, Triumph Tiger, Moto Guzzi Norge/Breva
Manufacturer Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for engineering quality, reliability, and rider comfort, particularly in the touring segment.
Model Appeal:
Versatile platform suitable for long-distance touring and everyday riding, known for its accessible power delivery and comfortable ergonomics.
Vehicles Covered:
All BMW R850GS and R850R models from 2000 onwards
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implied to be extensive for full A-Z coverage)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (assumed based on product description commonality for this market)
Engine:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, tuning, fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system (air-cooled components)
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, maintenance, repair, clutch operation and service, final drive maintenance and repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheels, tires
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic system service, ABS (if applicable), disc and pad replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, ECU troubleshooting
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, fenders, luggage systems (mounting and service), mirrors, controls
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, valve clearance adjustment, brake fluid changes, drive shaft lubrication
Repair:
Engine component repair, gearbox overhauls, suspension rebuilding, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component replacement, troubleshooting common faults
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking issues, and general operation
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic user maintenance to full professional workshop rebuilds, including detailed diagrams and specifications.
Detail Level:
In-depth coverage of all major repair topics, suitable for professional mechanics.
Configuration:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (Boxer) engine
Displacement:
848 cc (51.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (3.54 in x 2.60 in)
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (approximate, may vary slightly)
Horsepower:
Approximately 80 hp (59 kW) at 7,500 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 81 Nm (60 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), BMW's BMS-K or similar control unit
Fuel Type:
Unleaded petrol, minimum 95 RON
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 30 Liters (7.9 US gal) for R850GS, 20 Liters (5.3 US gal) for R850R
Length:
Varies by model (GS generally taller/longer than R)
Dry Weight:
R850GS: approx. 210 kg (463 lbs) / R850R: approx. 200 kg (441 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Detailed in manual, typically around 400 kg (880 lbs)
Safety Standards:
European and international motorcycle safety standards applicable at the time of manufacture.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS available on some models, serviceable via manual.
Braking System:
Dual disc front, single disc rear with 4-piston calipers (typical configuration).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (depending on specific sub-model year), turn signals.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital odometer, trip meters, fuel level indicator, gear indicator (on some models).
Audio System:
Not typically integrated from factory, but provisions for aftermarket audio/communication systems are covered in electrical section.
ABS:
As mentioned, Integral ABS was an option, detailed service procedures provided.
Diagnostic Port:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector allowing for electronic fault code reading and system analysis (covered in manual).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, refer to manual for exact specification and oil type.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as specified in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 20,000 - 30,000 km.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad recommends specific grades, typically a high-quality synthetic 15W-40 or 20W-50 API SG or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 Liters (2.6 US qt) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for ABS compatibility).
Gearbox Oil Type:
GL-5 75W-90 synthetic gear oil recommended.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Common Faults:
Potential issues include clutch slave cylinder leaks, regulator/rectifier failures, fuel pump issues, and wear on the driveshaft U-joints (though less common on shaft drive compared to chain).
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of electrical connections, ensuring proper coolant flow if fitted with oil cooler, and maintaining battery charge are key.
Manufacturer:
BMW Motorrad, a division of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for its engineering excellence since the early 20th century.
Predecessors:
Part of the R-series Boxer platform, evolving from earlier R80 and R100 models.
Development:
The R850 series was developed as a more accessible and slightly detuned version of the R1100 platform, offering a balance of performance and economy. The 'GS' variant is the adventure-touring version, while the 'R' is the classic roadster.
Production Period:
The R850 series was produced from the mid-1990s through the early 2000s, with this manual covering models from 2000 onwards.
