Segment:
Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Segment Description:
The R1150GS is a highly capable and durable motorcycle designed for long-distance touring and off-road exploration, known for its robust engineering and reliability.
Key Competitors Era:
Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Super Tenere, Triumph Tiger, Ducati Multistrada (earlier models)
Distinctive Features:
Boxer-twin engine, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, shaft drive, robust build quality, excellent touring comfort and off-road capability.
Primary Coverage:
Full service, repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, downloadable)
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, valve adjustment, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/connecting rod service, oil pump, timing chain, fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox disassembly/assembly, clutch service, final drive, driveshaft maintenance, wheel bearing replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, ignition switch, instrument cluster, diagnostics for electronic control units (ECU)
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (Telelever) overhaul and adjustment, rear shock absorber (Paralever) service, frame inspection, swingarm maintenance, wheel and tire service, brake system overhaul (ABS components if applicable)
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairing removal/installation, fuel tank service, seat assembly, body panel repairs, luggage system mounting
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular servicing, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant service, chain adjustment (if applicable, though R1150GS is shaft drive), valve clearance checks
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement, transmission repairs, suspension upgrades/repairs, electrical fault finding and repair, brake caliper rebuild, ABS system bleeding
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation (if applicable), component testing methods
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine
Displacement:
1130 cc (1.13 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated OHV
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 85 hp @ 6750 rpm (EU specification)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (EU specification)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 20W-50 (or equivalent)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts)
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition (CDI)
Spark Plugs:
NGK CR9EK or Champion RA6HC
Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in) at handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 248 kg (547 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 440 kg (970 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 Liters (6.6 US Gallons), including 4L reserve
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Braking System Front:
Dual 305 mm floating discs with 4-piston calipers
Braking System Rear:
Single 276 mm disc with 2-piston caliper
Suspension Front:
BMW Motorrad Telelever single-sided leading link suspension
Suspension Rear:
BMW Motorrad Paralever single-sided swingarm with adjustable shock absorber
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, gear indicator (optional), clock.
Instrument Panel:
Comprehensive analog and digital instrumentation, often with provision for heated grips and accessory power sockets.
ABS:
Optional ABS significantly enhances braking safety, particularly in adverse conditions.
Diagnostic Port:
Early diagnostic systems may rely on specialized BMW tools, but the manual will cover basic troubleshooting steps.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Check Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Coolant Type:
BMW Motorrad Approved Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder seal, rear wheel splines (lubrication is key), alternator brushes, Telelever pivot bearings, fuel pump O-rings.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally robust, some early models can experience intermittent electrical faults due to vibration or aging connectors. The manual would detail diagnostic procedures.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), Germany
Heritage Focus:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its boxer engines and adventure touring capabilities.
R1100Gs Predecessor:
The R1150GS is an evolution of the successful R1100GS, featuring an increased engine capacity for enhanced performance and torque.
Production Years Series:
The R1150GS series was produced from 1999 to 2005, with the R1150GS Adventure variant introduced later.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad's main production facility)
Reputation:
The R1150GS is widely regarded as an icon in the adventure touring segment, praised for its durability, comfort, and go-anywhere capability.
Reliability:
High reliability ratings for long-distance travel, provided regular maintenance is performed as outlined in the service manual.
