🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850R/GS, R1100R/RT/RS/GS

Product Name:

BMW R850R-GS R1100R-RT-RS-GS Workshop Manual (French)

Chassis Codes:

R850R: R21, R850GS: R21, R1100R: R259, R1100RT: R259, R1100RS: R259, R1100GS: R259

Engine Codes:

R850: 848cc Boxer Twin, R1100: 1085cc Boxer Twin (Fuel Injected)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Touring and Sport Touring motorcycles, with the GS models representing the Adventure/Dual-Sport segment.

Competitors:

Honda ST1100, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1400, Moto Guzzi California, Ducati Multistrada (older generations), Triumph Tiger.

Vehicle Highlights:

BMW's characteristic boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, innovative Telelever front suspension (on R1100 models), integrated ABS braking, strong touring capability, and robust build quality.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential French-language technical guidance for maintaining and repairing these robust German motorcycles, crucial for owners in French-speaking regions or those comfortable with French technical documentation.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

BMW R850R, R850GS, R1100R, R1100RT, R1100RS, R1100GS

Page Count:

Varies by edition, typically 300-500+ pages for comprehensive coverage

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

French

Format:

Likely printed book format, potentially available as PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (EFI), ignition, exhaust

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch, gearbox (5-speed), final drive (shaft drive), maintenance, repair

Chassis Suspension:

Frame, front Telelever suspension, rear Paralever suspension, forks, shock absorbers, bearings

Brakes:

ABS (Bosch), brake calipers, master cylinders, fluid, lines, discs, hydraulic system troubleshooting

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, electronic control units (ECUs), diagnostics

Bodywork Fittings:

Fairings, fuel tank, seat, body panels, fairing removal and installation, accessory fitting

Fuel System Components:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, throttle body synchronization.

Wheel Tire:

Wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting and balancing, spoke tensioning (for spoked wheels on GS models).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold removal and installation, catalytic converter inspection and replacement (if applicable).

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, brake bleeding, drive shaft lubrication

Repair Procedures:

Engine top-end rebuild, gearbox overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, brake system overhauls

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues

Suspension Setup:

Adjustments for preload, rebound damping (where applicable), and fork height for optimal handling.

Wiring Diagram Analysis:

Detailed interpretation of complex wiring schematics to trace electrical faults and understand system operation.

Recalibration Procedures:

Procedures for resetting throttle position sensors or other ECU parameters after component replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Procedures for using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) or compatible aftermarket tools for ECU reading and function testing.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, engine bolts, chassis components, and suspension parts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If PDF: Searchable text, high-resolution scans, printable pages.

Print Quality:

If printed: High-quality paper, clear legible text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

If printed: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

If printed: Durable, workshop-friendly paper that resists grease and oil.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled/oil-cooled (R1100) 4-stroke Boxer Twin

Bore X Stroke R850:

81 mm x 83 mm

Bore X Stroke R1100:

101 mm x 68 mm

Horsepower R850:

Approx. 70-75 hp (51-55 kW)

Horsepower R1100:

Approx. 80-90 hp (59-66 kW)

Torque R850:

Approx. 75 Nm (55 lb-ft)

Torque R1100:

Approx. 95-100 Nm (70-74 lb-ft)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)

Valvetrain:

2 valves per cylinder, overhead camshaft (SOHC), pushrod actuated

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Final Drive:

Shaft drive with single-sided swingarm

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

Transmission Fluid:

Typically SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil for gearbox and final drive. Manual will specify exact type and quantity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by model (e.g., R1100RT ~2250 mm, R1100GS ~2230 mm)

Width:

Varies by model (e.g., R1100RT ~930 mm at handlebars, R1100GS ~920 mm at handlebars)

Height:

Varies by model (e.g., R1100RT ~1370 mm at windscreen, R1100GS ~1250 mm at handlebars)

Dry Weight R850:

Approx. 210-220 kg

Dry Weight R1100:

Approx. 220-240 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 19-25 liters depending on model (e.g., R1100GS 25L, R1100RT 25L)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS (often optional or standard depending on model and year)

Braking System:

Dual disc front, single disc rear with unified braking (lever actuates front and rear; pedal actuates rear and partially front).

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, LED taillight (depending on model/year).

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD multi-function display for fuel level, odometer, trip meters, gear indicator (on some models), clock, temperature warning lights.

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS system, a pioneering feature in its time, offering unified braking control.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) via specific BMW diagnostic tools, covered in detail within the manual for fault code retrieval and analysis.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first. Manual will confirm.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Typically every 20,000 km. Manual is essential for this procedure.

Drive Shaft Lubrication:

Recommended at every major service or as per manual, often every 10,000-20,000 km.

Engine Oil:

Mineral or semi-synthetic SAE 20W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil. Specific API rating will be in the manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid is typically specified for ABS and non-ABS systems.

Coolant:

For R1100 models with oil coolers, coolant is usually not a primary system. The manual will clarify if any coolant is used in auxiliary systems.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, fuel pump issues, ABS sensor failures, wiring harness degradation (especially around the steering head), paralever pivot bearings.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common in older BMWs, often related to corrosion or loose connections in the wiring harness, particularly the main connector and grounds.

Telelever Issues:

Wear in the ball joint and pivot bearings of the Telelever system can lead to imprecise steering and handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing durable, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer-twin engines and shaft drive.

R1100 Series Introduction:

The R1100 series marked a significant technological leap for BMW's boxer line, introducing fuel injection, 4-valve cylinder heads, and the Telelever front suspension. It evolved from the R100 series.

R850 Introduction:

The R850 was introduced as a more accessible and slightly less powerful variant of the R1100, often aimed at riders seeking a more manageable machine.

Production Period:

Mid-1990s to early 2000s (e.g., R1100GS: 1993-1999, R1100RT: 1994-2001, R1100R: 1993-2001, R1100RS: 1992-2001, R850R/GS: 1995-2006).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Reputation:

These models are generally regarded as durable, comfortable, and capable touring machines, praised for their longevity and build quality when properly maintained.

Specific Model Accolades:

The R1100GS, in particular, was highly regarded as a capable adventure touring platform, earning acclaim for its versatility.