Positioning:
The BMW K1100 series represented BMW's entry into the sport-touring and luxury touring segment with a powerful and sophisticated transverse four-cylinder engine. This manual targets owners and technicians who maintain these high-performance machines.
Competition:
Competed against other premium touring motorcycles of the era, such as Honda Gold Wing variants, Kawasaki GTR series, and Yamaha FJR models, offering a blend of German engineering and performance.
Manual Value:
Provides essential, in-depth technical guidance to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and safety of the K1100 LT and RS models, offering significant cost savings compared to professional servicing for many tasks.
Vehicle Characteristics:
Known for its smooth, torquey engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics (especially the LT touring model), and robust build quality characteristic of BMW motorcycles.
Covered Models:
BMW K1100 LT, BMW K1100 RS
Covered Years:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Estimated Pages:
Likely extensive, typically 300-800+ pages for a comprehensive workshop manual covering multiple models and years.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Digital Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Accessibility:
Printable, Zoomable
Engine Mechanical:
Yes, comprehensive coverage of engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair.
Engine Electrical:
Yes, including ignition system, starting system, charging system, and ECU diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Yes, covering fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank.
Emission Control:
Yes, details on emission control systems relevant to the period.
Transmission Clutch:
Yes, covering clutch operation, inspection, and potential repair procedures. Note: K-series are shaft-driven, so transmission covers standard manual transaxle.
Drivetrain:
Yes, including driveshaft, final drive, and related components.
Suspension:
Yes, front and rear suspension systems, including forks, shock absorbers, and linkage.
Steering:
Yes, covering steering head bearings and linkage.
Brakes:
Yes, front and rear brake systems, including calipers, master cylinders, and ABS (if equipped).
Bodywork Interior Exterior:
Yes, covering fairings, body panels, seating, and general interior/exterior components.
Body Electrical:
Yes, including lighting, instrumentation, switches, and accessories.
Restraint Systems:
Yes, likely covering safety systems and considerations.
Maintenance:
Yes, routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, etc.
Troubleshooting:
Yes, diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Yes, detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Rebuilds:
Yes, likely covers complete engine and major component rebuilds.
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes, crucial for electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Level:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Content Detail:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, specifications, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Type:
1093cc (1092cc) Liquid-cooled, Four-stroke, Inline-Four Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
72 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-105 hp @ 7500 rpm (Varies slightly by specific model/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm (Varies slightly by specific model/tuning)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 liters (refer to manual for exact spec and oil type)
Crash Test Results:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles. Safety relies on rider skill, adherence to maintenance, and inherent design features.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available on many models, particularly the LT variant.
Braking System:
Powerful disc brakes front and rear, often with BMW's advanced ABS for the era.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability and handling.
Features:
Basic by modern standards. Primarily focused on instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge), warning lights, and often a stock radio/cassette player on LT models.
Features:
ABS (optional), which was a significant technological advancement for motorcycles at the time.
Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or annually. Refer to manual for exact intervals.
Valve Clearance:
Typically every 10,000 - 20,000 km (6,000 - 12,000 miles). Specific interval found in manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; often tied to major service intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50) and API/JASO rating for wet clutches. BMW recommended oil like BMW Motor Oil Advanced 15W-50 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Refer to manual for specific mixture ratio and BMW coolant type.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity (e.g., SAE 90 Hypoid Gear Oil).
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump reliability, ABS sensor issues, steering head bearings, clutch slave cylinder leaks, aging electrical connectors.
Maintenance Focus:
Regular inspection of fuel lines, electrical connections, and proper maintenance of the fuel injection system are critical for optimal performance.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad, established in 1916, has a long history of producing reliable, innovative, and high-quality motorcycles, particularly known for touring and adventure bikes.
K Series Origins:
The K-series, introduced in the early 1980s, marked BMW's shift to inline multi-cylinder engines, featuring a distinctive transverse mounting for improved weight distribution and handling. The K1100 was an evolution of the K75 and K100 platforms.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany