🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1150 GS

Generation Name:

Second Generation

Production Start Year:

1999

Production End Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

R28

👋 Introduction

Category:

Adventure Touring Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Enthusiast riders, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their R1150 GS.

Key Competitors Era:

Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Super Tenere, Triumph Tiger, Ducati Multistrada.

Differentiation:

Renowned BMW engineering, boxer engine characteristics, robust build quality, and extensive aftermarket support.

Unique Selling Proposition:

The R1150 GS defined the modern adventure touring segment, offering unparalleled versatility for long-distance touring and off-road exploration.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides expert-level guidance to maintain the legendary reliability and performance of the R1150 GS, empowering owners with self-sufficiency.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Frame:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Clutch:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Bodywork And Fairings:

Yes

Wheels And Tires:

Yes

Troubleshooting:

Yes

Torque Specifications:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Page Count:

Estimated 500+

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed teardown, assembly, and component inspection for the R1150 Boxer engine, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, and valve train.

Engine Management:

Coverage of the Motronic engine management system, fuel injection, ignition timing, idle control, and diagnostic codes (OBD-II compatible).

Drivetrain:

In-depth information on the 5-speed transmission, single-plate dry clutch, Paralever drive system, including gearbox disassembly, final drive maintenance, and driveshaft inspection.

Suspension And Steering:

Front Telelever suspension system (fork seals, damping, travel) and rear Monolever shock absorber (preload, damping adjustment, linkage). Steering head bearing maintenance and alignment.

Braking System:

BMW Integral ABS II system (hydraulic components, brake lines, ABS modulator, sensor testing), caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, and bleeding procedures. Front dual disc and rear single disc brakes.

Electrical System Components:

Battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), horn, dashboard instrumentation, and accessory power outlets.

Fuel And Exhaust:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, fuel line routing, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler maintenance.

Body And Chassis:

Fairing removal and installation, seat removal, fuel tank mounting, frame inspection, and related hardware.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, drive shaft lubrication, tire pressure checks, and brake fluid replacement.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds (top end and bottom end), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component rebuild, and brake system servicing.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common issues, using diagnostic tools, and interpreting error codes. Troubleshooting electrical faults, fuel delivery problems, and performance issues.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as wheel bearings, brake pads, clutch plates, exhaust gaskets, and various electrical sensors.

Special Tool Usage:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific maintenance and repair tasks on the R1150 GS.

Depth Level:

Complete overhaul and in-depth diagnostics.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

High-quality exploded views, circuit diagrams, and step-by-step photographic or line-art illustrations for clarity.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Comprehensive charts linking symptoms to potential causes and repair actions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clarity of diagrams and illustrations

Layout:

Professionally formatted for readability

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer-twin engine

Displacement:

1130 cc (68.9 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

101 mm x 70.5 mm (3.98 in x 2.78 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, SOHC (single overhead camshaft)

Horsepower:

85 hp @ 6,750 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

71 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (95 RON) recommended

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch Type:

Single-plate dry clutch, hydraulically actuated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive (Paralever system)

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios and final drive ratio.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,255 mm (88.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) across handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1,330 mm (52.4 in) to seat, 1,450 mm (57.1 in) to windscreen

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,490 mm (58.7 in)

Cargo Capacity:

Designed for luggage systems and panniers; no integrated cargo volume specified.

Dry Weight:

Approx. 227 kg (500.5 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 242 kg (533.5 lbs) with all fluids

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to motorcycle's VIN plate or manual for specific GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

N/A for motorcycles; safety emphasis on design, braking, and rider assistance features.

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS II (optional on some models, standard on others)

Traction Control:

Optional on some later models, not a standard feature on all R1150 GS variants.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, front and rear turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame providing robust support and crash protection.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, temperature, gear indicator, and warning lights.

Optional Audio:

Factory-optional radio/cassette or CD player systems were available on some models.

ABS System:

Integral ABS II, a sophisticated early generation anti-lock braking system that can be disengaged.

Heated Grips:

Standard on many models, an essential feature for cold-weather riding.

Diagnostic Port:

BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector, requiring specific tools or adapters for modern scan tools.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles) or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles).

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (e.g., Castrol GPS SAE 20W-50)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change

Transmission Oil Type:

SAE 80W-90 API GL-5

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.9 liters (0.95 US qt)

Final Drive Oil Type:

SAE 90 API GL-5

Final Drive Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.25 liters (0.26 US qt)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Coolant Type:

BMW Premium Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch slave cylinder seal, throttle body sync issues, fuel pump relay, starter motor brushes, ABS modulator leaks (Integral ABS).

Electrical Gremlins:

Can occur due to aging wiring, loose connections, or faulty relays. Manual provides diagnostic steps.

Telelever Pivot Bearings:

Can wear over time, leading to steering looseness. Manual details inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorrad Legacy:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing durable, capable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engines and adventure touring prowess.

Predecessor:

R1100 GS

Successor:

R1200 GS

Key Enhancements Over Predecessor:

Increased engine displacement, higher power output, improved ergonomics, and updated ABS system (Integral ABS).

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany

Production Volume Estimate:

Significant volume, establishing the GS as a class-leading adventure bike globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Of The Year:

Widely acclaimed by motorcycle publications and consistently ranked as a top adventure touring motorcycle during its production years.

User Satisfaction:

High user satisfaction due to its reliability, versatility, and enduring design.

Emission Standards:

Meets European emission standards relevant to its production era (e.g., Euro 1 or Euro 2).