Segment:
Large displacement, air-cooled boxer-twin touring motorcycle.
Competitors:
Guzzi V1000, Honda GL series, Yamaha XS series (contemporary large displacement competitors).
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, boxer-twin engine.
Drive System:
Shaft drive.
Durability:
Known for robust build quality and longevity when properly maintained.
Touring Capability:
Designed for comfortable long-distance riding, often equipped with luggage systems.
Applicable Years:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Estimated Page Count:
300+
Type:
Workshop Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, overhaul, and reassembly of the boxer twin engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment (Bing), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil replacement, spark plug specifications, electronic ignition components.
Transmission Gearbox:
5-speed gearbox overhaul, clutch operation and adjustment, final drive and shaft drive.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, caliper service, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front fork (including oil change and seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, swingarm.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, alternator, starter motor, lighting, switches, fuses.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, headstock bearings, steering alignment.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairing (if applicable), seat, handlebars, fuel tank mounting, fenders.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, chain adjustment (if applicable, though shaft drive is standard), brake fluid checks, valve clearance adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and drivability concerns.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension fork rebuilds, brake system repairs.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding carburetors, alternators, starters, and brake calipers.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Interpreting wiring diagrams, testing electrical components, identifying short circuits and open circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers routine maintenance through complete engine and transmission rebuilds).
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (boxer).
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 78.0 mm
Valve Train:
OHV (Overhead Valve), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated.
Horsepower Output:
Approx. 65-70 HP @ 6000-7000 RPM (variant dependent)
Torque Output:
Approx. 75-80 Nm @ 4500-5500 RPM (variant dependent)
Carburetors:
2 x Bing 32mm (or 40mm on some later/export models)
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical fuel pump.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Bosch Motronic or similar)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 2.5 Liters
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than cars)
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake.
Suspension Stability:
Ensures predictable handling and stability during braking and cornering.
Robust Construction:
Durable frame and componentry contribute to rider safety.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 10,000 km or annually.
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Every 10,000 - 20,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 20,000 km.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 90 Hypoid Gear Oil
Clutch Actuation:
Potential for seal leaks in the clutch slave cylinder over time.
Carburetor Tuning:
Bing carburetors can require periodic synchronization and adjustment for optimal performance.
Electrical Connections:
Older wiring harnesses can develop corrosion or wear, leading to intermittent electrical faults. Regular inspection recommended.
Pushrod Seals:
Pushrod tube seals can degrade and leak oil; a common maintenance item.
Starter Motor:
While generally robust, starter motors can eventually require servicing or replacement.
Legacy:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable, technically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer engine.
R Series Lineage:
The R 100 PD is part of the long-standing 'R' series of boxer-twin motorcycles, evolving from earlier models like the R90S and R100RS.
Pd Designation:
'PD' typically stands for 'Paris-Dakar', indicating a more adventure-oriented or dual-purpose variant, often featuring a larger fuel tank, longer travel suspension, and a taller windscreen.
Production Period:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
Industry Recognition:
While specific awards for the R 100 PD are not prominently documented, the R series has consistently been recognized for its engineering, durability, and contribution to motorcycling.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction for its reliability and touring comfort, especially among enthusiasts.
