Category:
Premium Sport Touring Motorcycle
Segment:
The K1100RS and K1100LT were BMW's flagship touring and sport-touring machines of the 1990s, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced engineering.
Competitors:
Honda ST1100, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJ1200, Moto Guzzi California
Distinction:
Characterized by BMW's signature flat-four engine, shaft drive, robust build quality, and rider-focused ergonomics. The LT model offered enhanced touring comfort with a larger fairing, integrated luggage, and more amenities.
Model Years Covered:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Estimated Page Count:
300+
Type:
Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Clutch, Drive Shaft
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, ECU, ABS (if equipped)
Bodywork:
Fairings, Seat, Fuel Tank, Body Panels, Windscreen, Luggage Systems (LT)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Valve Adjustments, Brake Fluid Flush, Coolant Flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Problem Resolution
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Disassembly/Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Special Tools:
Identification and use of BMW-specific and essential aftermarket tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic owner maintenance checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Type:
Inline-four cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled
Displacement:
1031 cc (1.03 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
73.0 mm x 59.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Approx:
90 hp @ 7500 rpm (K1100RS), 100 hp @ 7500 rpm (K1100LT)
Torque Approx:
95 Nm @ 5500 rpm (K1100RS), 100 Nm @ 5500 rpm (K1100LT)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON or higher recommended)
Ignition:
Electronic Ignition (Motronic)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter (Euro 1/2 compliant)
Length Approx:
K1100RS: 2170 mm (85.4 in) / K1100LT: 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Width Approx:
K1100RS: 755 mm (29.7 in) / K1100LT: 930 mm (36.6 in)
Height Approx:
K1100RS: 1230 mm (48.4 in) / K1100LT: 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Wheelbase Approx:
1495 mm (58.9 in)
Dry Weight Approx:
K1100RS: 232 kg (511 lbs) / K1100LT: 264 kg (582 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 Liters (5.5 US gal), including 3.5L reserve
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings differ from automotive; focus is on rider protection and system integrity).
Braking System:
Dual 330 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 280 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear).
ABS:
Optional BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models/years.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, integrated turn signals, LED tail light.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy steel trellis frame providing excellent rigidity and rider protection.
Features:
Analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer), trip computer, engine temperature gauge, fuel gauge. Higher-spec LT models often featured integrated radio/cassette systems.
ABS:
Optional Integral ABS system provided enhanced braking safety.
Diagnostic Ports:
Utilizes BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector, requiring specific tools for advanced diagnostics.
ECU:
Bosch Motronic engine management system controlling fuel injection and ignition timing.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km or annually (whichever comes first)
Major Service:
Every 20,000 km (includes valve clearance check, fuel system inspection)
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 Liters (with filter change)
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 80W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Coolant:
BMW Motorrad Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump, regulator rectifier, swingarm pivot bearings, clutch slave cylinder, brake line degradation.
Electrical:
Corrosion on wiring connectors, potential failure of Motronic unit components with age.
Engine:
While generally robust, some models may experience minor oil leaks from seals or gaskets over time. Valve adjustment is critical for smooth operation.
Legacy:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing innovative and durable motorcycles, renowned for engineering, quality, and rider safety.
Predecessors:
Built upon the foundation of the K100 and K1100 series, refining the flat-four engine and chassis for improved performance and comfort.
Development:
The K1100RS (1992-1996) was the sportier variant, while the K1100LT (1992-1999) offered enhanced touring comfort and features. The K1200RS and K1200LT succeeded this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Production Years:
1992-1999
Industry Perception:
The K1100 series were widely praised for their engineering, long-distance comfort, and build quality, cementing BMW's reputation in the sport-touring segment.
Consumer Reviews:
Consistently rated highly by owners for reliability, performance, and comfort on extended journeys.
