🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850 R850GS

Year:

2001

Vin Prefix Confirmation:

WB101xx (for R850GS models typically, though specific prefixes can vary slightly based on manufacturing country).

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW R850GS (and its sibling R850R) occupies a niche in the adventure touring and roadster segments, offering a more accessible and user-friendly alternative to the larger R11xx series, while retaining BMW's characteristic engineering and reliability.

Competitors 2001:

Competed against motorcycles like the Honda VFR800, Triumph Tiger 900, and Yamaha TDM850 in terms of capability and price point, though the BMW's boxer-twin configuration and shaft drive set it apart.

Engine Layout:

Air/oil-cooled, horizontally-opposed (boxer) twin-cylinder engine.

Drive System:

Shaft drive, offering low maintenance and clean operation.

Suspension Design:

BMW's signature Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension for excellent ride quality and handling.

Gs Variant Distinction:

The 'GS' designation indicates a more off-road oriented variant with longer-travel suspension, spoked wheels, and potentially higher ground clearance compared to the R850R roadster.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

Complete engine mechanicals, including disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and rebuilding.

Transmission Coverage:

Gearbox (transmission) service, repair, and maintenance procedures.

Chassis Coverage:

Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering system, and wheel bearings.

Electrical System Coverage:

Ignition system, charging system, lighting, starter, and electronic control units (ECUs).

Braking System Coverage:

Brake system diagnostics, repairs, ABS system troubleshooting (if equipped).

Fuel System Coverage:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel lines.

Bodywork Coverage:

Fairings, body panels, seat removal, and general chassis components.

Estimated Page Count:

Typically 300-500 pages, reflecting comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), designed for easy navigation and printing.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanicals:

Top-end (cylinder head, valves, camshafts), bottom-end (crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), timing, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (Motronic), ignition timing, sensor diagnostics, error code interpretation.

Powertrain:

Clutch, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive).

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting guides for electrical faults.

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, pressure regulator, injector servicing.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter (if applicable for the market), mufflers, exhaust routing.

Suspension Components:

Front fork (telelever or similar BMW system), rear shock absorber, swingarm, linkages.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting/balancing (though specialized equipment is usually needed).

Control Systems:

Throttle cables, clutch cables, brake levers, handlebar controls.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain/drive maintenance (though this model is shaft-driven).

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed instructions for disassembling and reassembling major and minor components.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Complete overhaul procedures for the engine and gearbox.

Torque Specifications:

Accurate torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, easy-to-read electrical schematics.

Calibration Procedures:

Idle speed adjustment, throttle position sensor (TPS) calibration.

Fluid Level Checks:

Procedures and specifications for checking and filling all necessary fluids.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes guidance on using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW GS-911 compatible procedures) and interpreting fault codes.

Performance Tuning:

While not primarily a tuning manual, it provides foundational knowledge for performance optimization.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable, allowing quick location of specific information.

Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)

Displacement:

848 cc (cubic centimeters)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

Two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated (OHV)

Cooling System:

Air/oil cooling

Horsepower Output:

Approximately 70 hp (52 kW) at 6750 rpm (manufacturer specific, can vary slightly by market and tune).

Torque Output:

Approximately 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) at 5000 rpm (manufacturer specific, can vary slightly by market and tune).

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

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

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approximately 20-25 liters (5.3-6.6 US gal), varies by specific R850GS model iteration.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Five-speed manual gearbox

Clutch:

Single dry plate clutch, cable actuated.

Optional Gearbox:

N/A (Five-speed was standard and only option for this model year).

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to the rear wheel.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual, crucial for performance and maintenance.

Transmission Fluid:

Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5 specification, SAE 85W-90 (check manual for exact BMW part number).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 2150-2200 mm (84.6-86.6 inches) depending on fairing and accessories.

Width:

Approximately 850-950 mm (33.5-37.4 inches) including mirrors.

Height:

Approximately 1350-1450 mm (53.1-57.1 inches) to top of windscreen/fairing.

Seat Height:

Approximately 820-840 mm (32.3-33.1 inches) for standard seat, lower/higher options may exist.

Dry Weight:

Approximately 210-225 kg (463-496 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle specific VIN plate and manual for exact GWVR.

Payload Capacity:

Sufficient for rider, passenger, and luggage, detailed in manual.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 inches).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash testing like cars; safety relies on design and rider skill.

Braking System:

Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available on many models, check manual for specific ABS system details and troubleshooting.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED tail light/brake light, turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel trellis or monocoque frame designed for stability and rider feedback.

Ergonomics:

Designed for comfortable riding posture, reducing fatigue on longer journeys.

Wind Protection:

Standard windscreen and fairing offer moderate wind protection for the rider.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

OEM audio systems were not standard on the R850GS in 2001. Aftermarket communication systems or audio units may have been installed.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (optional availability, crucial diagnostic coverage in the manual).

Instrument Cluster:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, with digital odometer, trip meter, and basic warning lights. Some models may have a basic onboard computer.

Diagnostic Ports:

The manual will detail the location and type of diagnostic connectors for accessing the Motronic unit.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Always consult the manual for precise intervals and conditions.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Approximately every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), as per manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Gearbox Oil Change:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or two years.

Final Drive Oil Change:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or two years.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle engine oil, API SG/SH/SJ or higher, JASO MA compliant, viscosity grade 15W-40 or 20W-50 (consult manual for precise BMW recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual). Replace every 2 years.

Coolant:

If oil cooler is present and integrated into a coolant loop (unlikely for basic R850), use a 50/50 mix of BMW-approved coolant and distilled water. Standard R850s primarily rely on air/oil cooling.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, suspension seals, and exhaust system components can wear over time.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring harness can cause intermittent electrical faults. The manual will guide troubleshooting these areas.

Fuel Injection Issues:

While generally reliable, throttle position sensor (TPS) issues or injector clogging can occur; manual provides diagnostic steps.

ABS Faults:

Early ABS systems can be sensitive to voltage fluctuations or sensor damage; the manual is critical for diagnosing ABS faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorrad Legacy:

BMW Motorrad, established in 1916, has a long history of producing innovative and reliable motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engines and pioneering technologies like shaft drive and ABS.

R850 Lineage:

The R850 series was introduced as a mid-range offering, leveraging the established R11xx platform but with a smaller displacement engine for reduced cost, weight, and improved fuel economy, making BMW's touring and adventure capabilities more accessible.

Production Period:

The R850GS and R850R were primarily produced from the late 1990s through the early 2000s, with the 2001 model being a significant iteration.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Berlin-Spandau plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the R850GS in 2001 are not widely publicized, BMW motorcycles generally receive acclaim for build quality, engineering, and rider comfort in enthusiast reviews and long-term tests.

Owner Satisfaction:

BMW R-series motorcycles typically score high in owner satisfaction for reliability and long-term ownership experience, supported by comprehensive service documentation like this manual.

Manual Quality:

This manual adheres to industry standards for technical documentation, providing clear, accurate, and actionable information for vehicle repair and maintenance.