Market Segment:
Touring motorcycle, known for its comfort, reliability, and Boxer engine character.
Competitors 1998:
Honda VFR800, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJR1300 (early versions).
Design Philosophy:
Practical, comfortable, and capable touring motorcycle with BMW's signature Boxer twin engine and shaft drive.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Bodywork, Troubleshooting
Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as 'very detailed')
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed based on product description)
Format:
Digital (PDF or similar electronic format implied by 'manual')
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the boxer engine, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train.
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system components, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, throttle body, and sensors.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, timing, and Motronic control unit diagnostics.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, final drive maintenance, shaft drive inspection.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Telelever suspension, Paralever rear suspension, wheel bearing service, steering head bearing maintenance.
Braking System:
BMW EVO disc brakes (front and rear), ABS II system troubleshooting and maintenance (if applicable to 1998 model).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, starter motor, alternator, lighting system, instrument cluster troubleshooting.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Removal and installation of body panels, seat, fuel tank, and related components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, lubrication points, brake fluid flush.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component overhaul, replacement, and adjustment for all major systems.
Technical Data And Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance values.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for both novice DIY mechanics and experienced technicians. Covers everything from basic adjustments to full engine rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, air-cooled, boxer-twin (flat-twin)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (Typical)
Valve Train:
Overhead camshafts (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower Approx:
70 hp @ 7,000 rpm (Approximate, may vary by market/tune)
Torque Approx:
77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5,000 rpm (Approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
3.0 Liters (3.2 US Quarts)
Oil Type Recommended:
SAE 15W-50 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic motorcycle oil (refer to manual for specific BMW approval)
ABS Availability:
Optional on some models/markets (ABS II system)
Brakes Front:
Dual 305 mm (12.0 in) discs with dual-piston calipers
Brakes Rear:
Single 276 mm (10.9 in) disc with dual-piston caliper
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (typical for the era)
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, warning lights.
ABS System Details:
BMW ABS II, a reliable two-channel anti-lock braking system (if equipped).
Onboard Computer:
Not typically equipped on the 1998 R850R. Some later models may have had basic computer functions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Final Drive Oil Change:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW specification)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fuel pump reliability, alternator output, steering head bearings, exhaust header pipe corrosion.
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical faults related to wiring harness connectors and grounds are not uncommon on older BMWs.
Bmw Motorcycles Legacy:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its boxer engines, shaft drive, and robust touring capabilities.
R Series Evolution:
The R850R is part of BMW's air-cooled R series, evolving from iconic models like the R75/5 and R100RT. It represented a more accessible entry point into BMW's boxer-twin touring platform.
Production Period:
Mid-1990s to early 2000s
Motorcycle Reviews 1998:
Generally well-received for its comfort, engine character, and solid build quality, though often criticized for being slightly underpowered compared to its larger siblings and competitors.
Reliability Reputation:
Good, known for long-term durability when properly maintained, with a few specific electrical and fuel system quirks.
