Market Position:
The R850GS and R850R were positioned as more accessible, smaller-displacement variants of BMW's successful R-series adventure and roadster platforms, offering BMW quality and engineering at a competitive price point.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other mid-size displacement motorcycles offering touring, adventure, or standard roadster capabilities. Its key differentiators included the boxer twin engine, shaft drive, BMW's build quality, and the specific ergonomic and technological features of the GS and R variants.
Key Features:
The R850 models offered a balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. The GS variant focused on light off-road capability and touring, while the R variant emphasized comfortable street riding. Both featured BMW's signature boxer engine and shaft drive.
Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour in shop labor costs. Empowers owners to understand and communicate effectively with mechanics.
Manual Purpose:
To guide owners through the fundamentals of maintaining and repairing their BMW R850GS/R850R, teaching them what factory-trained technicians know.
Coverage Areas:
All styles covered, General Information, Fuel system, Cooling system, Engine top end, Clutch, Engine lubrication system, Engine Removal/Installation, Crankshaft/Transmission, Wheels/Tires, Final Drive, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System, Appendix
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Manual Authenticity:
Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manuals, not 3rd party publications.
Delivery Method:
Instant PDF download link provided on the checkout page after payment completion.
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader.
Systems Covered:
Engine (top end, lubrication, removal/installation), Fuel System, Cooling System, Clutch, Transmission, Final Drive, Wheels and Tires, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams)
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for electrical issues, component testing, and analysis of engine management systems.
Fuel System Coverage:
Includes details on the fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, and fuel pressure regulation.
Procedures Included:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Repair procedures (step-by-step), Troubleshooting, Engine fault symptom diagnosis, Part testing techniques, Wiring diagram tracing, Engine management system analysis, Common fixes, Pre-emptive maintenance tips
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive engine fault symptom diagnosis, troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics, and suspected part testing.
Tuning Procedures:
Instructions for service, maintenance, repairs, and tuning are covered in detail.
Repair Procedure Structure:
Features detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings for critical information, alongside numbered instructions and bold figure numbers for easy cross-referencing with illustrations.
Technical Depth:
Complete official full factory service repair manual, covering everything needed to repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, or restore the vehicle. Information equivalent to what professional technicians and mechanics use.
Illustrations Diagrams:
Contains all necessary illustrations, detailed drawings, and photos to guide through every procedure, including enlarged insets for detailed part examination.
File Format Details:
PDF. High resolution. Searchable text. Compatible with all PC based Windows operating systems and Mac.
File Organization:
Can be printed in its entirety or selectively by page or chapter. Searchable for quick information retrieval.
Download Availability:
Available for download immediately after purchase.
Print Quality:
Printable without any restriction. Individual pages or the entire manual can be printed.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - Printable)
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine
Engine Displacement:
848 cc
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, operated by pushrods and rocker arms (OHV)
Horsepower Approximate:
70 hp @ 7,500 rpm (R850R), ~60 hp (R850GS - depending on market configuration)
Torque Approximate:
77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5,000 rpm (R850R)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with throttle body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (min. 95 RON)
Wheelbase Approximate:
1430 mm (56.3 in) for R850R, potentially longer for R850GS
Seat Height Approximate:
820 mm (32.3 in) for R850R, 860 mm (33.9 in) for R850GS (unladen)
Dry Weight Approximate:
195 kg (430 lbs) for R850R, ~205 kg (452 lbs) for R850GS
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approximate:
390 kg (860 lbs)
Fuel Capacity Approximate:
20 L (5.3 gal) including reserve.
ABS Availability:
Optional ABS (BMW Motorrad ABS Generation 2)
Braking System:
Front: Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers. Rear: Single 276 mm disc with 2-piston caliper.
Suspension Front:
BMW Telelever front suspension with single shock absorber
Suspension Rear:
Paralever single-sided swingarm with monoshock absorber
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog instrumentation with speedometer, tachometer, and warning lights. No advanced infotainment systems typical of modern motorcycles.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was the primary driver assistance technology available.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually. (Refer to manual for specific engine oil type).
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles). (Requires specialized tools and knowledge).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years. (Refer to manual for specific procedure).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher. (Refer to manual for exact specification and quantity).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4. (Flush and replace every 2 years).
Gearbox Oil Specification:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5. (Refer to manual for quantity).
Final Drive Oil Specification:
BMW recommends specific final drive lubricant. Refer to manual for type and capacity.
Common Issues:
While generally robust, potential issues can include fuel injector clogging, aging fuel lines, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and wear on suspension components. Electrical connectors can sometimes corrode. ABS system components may require specialized diagnostics.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular cleaning of the fuel injectors and checking for vacuum leaks can prevent running issues. Proper maintenance of the clutch hydraulic system ensures smooth operation.
Common Fault Symptoms:
The manual assists in diagnosing engine fault symptoms such as rough idling, poor acceleration, or starting issues.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its innovative engineering, boxer engines, and durable, well-built motorcycles, particularly in the touring and adventure segments.
Model Evolution:
The R850 series was introduced in the mid-1990s as a derivative of the successful R1100 models, offering a more accessible displacement and price point. The R850GS specifically adapted the adventure styling and ergonomics of the larger GS models.
Model Designation:
The 'GS' designation signifies 'Geländestraße' (off-road street), highlighting its dual-purpose capability, while 'R' denotes the standard roadster configuration.
Production Period:
Mid-1990s to early 2000s
