Model:
R1100RT, R1100RS, R850GS, R1100GS, R850R, R1100R
Chassis Codes:
R1100RT: E850, R1100RS: E852, R850GS: E850, R1100GS: E850, R850R: E852, R1100R: E852
Production Years:
1993-2000
Market Segment:
BMW's Boxer-engined touring and sport-touring motorcycles, representing premium quality and engineering for the discerning rider.
Key Competitors:
Honda ST1100, Yamaha FJ1200, Kawasaki GTR1000, Moto Guzzi California.
Vehicle Highlights:
Torque-rich boxer-twin engines, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance travel (especially RT), advanced suspension systems (Telelever/Paralever), integrated ABS on many models, durable build quality.
Manual Purpose:
Empowers owners and independent technicians with the knowledge to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair these complex BMW motorcycles, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Covered Models:
BMW R1100RT, BMW R1100RS, BMW R850GS, BMW R1100GS, BMW R850R, BMW R1100R
Covered Years:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Estimated Page Count:
800-1200 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era and scope)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, overhaul), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (including fuel injection), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU, sensors).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive maintenance and repair, driveshaft and universal joint service.
Chassis Suspension Brakes:
Front fork (Telelever) overhaul and adjustment, rear shock absorber (Paralever) service, brake system (including ABS II or ABS-N) inspection, fluid replacement, component overhaul (calipers, master cylinders), wheel bearing maintenance.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery service, starter motor, alternator, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, indicators), instrument cluster, ignition switch, fuses, relays, common electrical troubleshooting procedures.
Bodywork Frame:
Fairing removal and installation, seat servicing, fuel tank maintenance, frame inspection, body panel repair and replacement procedures.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance checks and adjustments, brake fluid replacement, coolant flush and replacement, chain/driveshaft lubrication and adjustment, tire pressure checks.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, fuel system troubleshooting and component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilds.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic fault finding for engine performance, electrical issues, braking problems, and other common malfunctions with diagnostic flowcharts.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance and pre-ride inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and suspension overhauls. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and detailed exploded views.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine.
Displacement:
R850 variants: 848 cc; R1100 variants: 1085 cc.
Bore X Stroke:
R850: 82.5 mm x 74.5 mm; R1100: 99 mm x 70.5 mm.
Compression Ratio:
R850: 10.0:1; R1100: 10.7:1.
Horsepower:
R850: approx. 70 hp @ 7250 rpm; R1100: approx. 90 hp @ 7250 rpm (specifics vary slightly by model and year).
Torque:
R850: approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm; R1100: approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (specifics vary slightly by model and year).
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with two injectors per cylinder.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 95-98 RON (octane rating).
ECU System:
Bosch Motronic 2.1 or 2.2
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual gearbox.
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate, hydraulically operated.
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with bevel gear housing (Paralever system for rear suspension linkage).
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5 gear oil (BMW recommends specific grades).
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5 gear oil (BMW recommends specific grades).
Length:
Varies by model (RT typically longest, GS shortest). Example RT: ~2230 mm.
Width:
Varies by model. Example RT: ~930 mm (including mirrors).
Height:
Varies by model. Example RT: ~1400 mm.
Dry Weight:
R850GS: ~215 kg; R1100GS: ~245 kg; R1100RS: ~245 kg; R1100RT: ~280 kg (all approximate, curb weight).
Fuel Tank Capacity:
R850/R1100 models: 20-25 Liters (typically 25L for RT/RS, 20L for GS/R).
Payload Capacity:
Approximately 200-220 kg depending on model and specific configuration.
ABS Availability:
Optional or standard depending on model and year (ABS II, ABS-N).
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake. Often equipped with BMW's integrated ABS system which combines braking for front and rear wheels via the handbrake lever.
Lighting:
Halogen or H4 headlights, LED taillights (on later models), turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control, with adjustable levers and seating positions on many models.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for fuel level, odometer, trip meters, clock, gear indicator (on some models), warning lights.
ABS System:
Integrated Anti-lock Braking System (ABS II or ABS-N) providing enhanced braking control, especially in adverse conditions.
Diagnostic Interface:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector (often requiring specific BMW diagnostic tools or adapters).
Heated Grips:
Available as an option on most models for improved comfort in cold weather.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on the R1100RT model.
Oil Filter Change:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (specific type and gap per manual).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or JASO MA motorcycle oil (consult manual for exact BMW recommendation).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommends specific coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, alternator brushes, voltage regulator, fuel pump O-rings, swingarm pivot bearings, ABS modulator issues (especially on older ABS II systems).
Potential Failures:
Seals (e.g., output shaft seal, final drive seal), electrical connector corrosion, ABS sensor failures.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter MWK 1001, Mahle KL 146, BMW 11 42 1 458 700 (always verify with VIN).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
K&N TB-1100, BMW 13 72 1 459 104 (always verify with VIN).
Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing history of producing durable, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and pioneering engineering.
Boxer Engine Development:
These models represent the evolution of BMW's boxer twins, moving from carbureted to fuel-injected systems and introducing advanced suspension technologies like Telelever and Paralever for improved handling and comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad factory).
Key Innovations:
Introduction of the Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension offered significant improvements in ride quality and handling over previous generations.
Reputation:
Consistently praised by critics and owners for their build quality, reliability, comfort, and touring capabilities, solidifying BMW's reputation in the premium motorcycle market.
Owner Satisfaction:
High owner satisfaction due to long-term durability and performance when properly maintained.
