Market Position:
The K1100LT and RS were BMW's flagship touring and sport-touring motorcycles in the early to mid-1990s, targeting riders seeking comfort, performance, and advanced engineering.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other large-displacement sport-touring and touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (ST1100), Yamaha (Venture), Kawasaki (Concours), and various European brands. Key differentiators were BMW's characteristic shaft drive, inline-four engine, and advanced features like ABS.
Key Features:
Smooth inline-four engine, robust shaft drive, advanced ABS II braking system, comfortable ergonomics (especially LT), excellent weather protection (fairings), durable construction.
Ergonomics Lt:
Designed for long-distance comfort with a more upright riding position, substantial fairings for wind and weather protection, and often came equipped with saddlebags and a top case.
Ergonomics Rs:
Sportier ergonomics with clip-on handlebars mounted above the triple clamp, offering a more aggressive yet still comfortable riding stance suitable for spirited touring.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Transmission, Clutch, Drivetrain (Shaft Drive), Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (ABS II), Electrical System, Bodywork & Fairings, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Engine Management:
Detailed coverage of the Bosch Motronic EFI system, including sensor diagnostics, fuel injection control, and ignition timing.
Fuel System Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting for fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, and sensors. Includes pressure testing procedures.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Testing & Replacement, Suspension Adjustments & Overhaul, Bodywork Repair & Fairing Removal/Installation, Wheel & Tire Service, Final Drive Maintenance
Electrical Diagnostics:
Includes wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting guides for the entire electrical system.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Complete step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly, including torque specifications.
Print Quality:
High-quality print on durable paper, designed for workshop use.
Searchability:
For printed manuals, index-based searching. If a digital version is implied, searchability would be text-based.
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or Saddle-stitched for lay-flat readability
Illustrations:
Features detailed line drawings, exploded views, and photographic illustrations to clarify procedures.
Paper Type:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and workshop grime.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1093 cc (1.1 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
72.5 mm x 67.5 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 100 HP @ 7,500 RPM
Torque:
Approx. 101 Nm (74.5 lb-ft) @ 6,000 RPM
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 Liters (5.5 US gallons)
Fuel Injector Type:
Single injector per cylinder
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1495 mm (58.9 inches)
Length Lt:
Approx. 2260 mm (89 inches) for LT
Length Rs:
Approx. 2165 mm (85.2 inches) for RS
Seat Height Lt:
Approx. 810 mm (31.9 inches) for LT
Seat Height Rs:
Approx. 790 mm (31.1 inches) for RS
Dry Weight Lt:
Approx. 250 kg (551 lbs) for LT
Dry Weight Rs:
Approx. 235 kg (518 lbs) for RS
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
GVWR will be specified in the manual, typically around 470 kg.
Braking System:
BMW Motorrad ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Front Brakes:
Dual 305 mm discs with four-piston calipers
Rear Brakes:
Single 278 mm disc with two-piston caliper
Front Suspension:
Telescopic fork with adjustable preload and damping
Rear Suspension:
Monolever swingarm with single shock absorber, adjustable for preload and rebound damping
Frame Construction:
Steel-trellis frame for rigidity and weight distribution
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation; often features analog gauges, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, clock. Some models might have provision for aftermarket radio/communication systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS II Anti-lock Braking System is the primary advanced safety feature.
Traction Control:
No integrated traction control system on these models.
Connectivity Options:
Limited; typically includes hazard light switch, turn signals, and basic lighting controls. No modern connectivity features.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or annually
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil (e.g., BMW Advantec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil (e.g., BMW final drive oil)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., BMW coolant or equivalent)
Known Issues:
Fuel pump failure (common on older models), starter motor issues, tendency for ABS II pump seals to wear, potential for wear in the driveshaft splines if not greased regularly, aging electrical connectors.
Brake System Maintenance:
ABS II system requires specific bleeding procedures detailed in the manual to avoid issues.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of engineering and performance, known for its innovative technologies and durable motorcycles.
Model Evolution:
The K1100 series succeeded the K100 and K75 models, representing an evolution in BMW's inline-four technology, offering increased displacement and improved performance. The LT variant focused on comfort and touring, while the RS offered a sportier, yet still comfortable, riding experience.
Engine Development:
The K1100 engine was a development of the earlier K100 'flying brick' engine, featuring four valves per cylinder and a revised crankshaft for smoother operation and increased power.
Production Years:
1991-1996 (K1100LT), 1993-1996 (K1100RS)
