Positioning:
The R1100RS was positioned by BMW as a sport-touring motorcycle, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and touring capability. It appealed to riders seeking a refined German engineering experience for long-distance travel and spirited riding.
Competitors:
Competed against other European and Japanese sport-touring motorcycles of the era, such as certain Honda VFR models, Kawasaki GTR series, and Yamaha FJR.
Design:
Distinctive Boxer Twin engine, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear drive, integrated fairing for aerodynamic protection, comfortable rider ergonomics.
Performance:
Capable of spirited riding and comfortable long-distance touring, known for its smooth power delivery and shaft drive convenience.
Value:
Essential tool for maintaining and repairing the R1100RS, enabling owners to perform complex tasks, diagnose issues, and ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their motorcycle.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, inspection, and repair of the Boxer Twin engine, including valve adjustments, piston ring replacement, bearing checks, and torque specifications.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system diagnosis and repair, fuel injection system (Motronic), sensor testing, alternator and starter motor operation, wiring diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, injector service, fuel pressure regulation, fuel filter replacement.
Transmission:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch inspection and replacement, shaft and bearing checks, shift mechanism adjustments, transmission fluid specifications and change intervals.
Drivetrain:
Paralever rear drive system maintenance and repair, driveshaft and universal joint inspection, final drive gear oil specifications.
Brakes:
ABS II system troubleshooting and bleeding procedures, brake caliper servicing, pad replacement, brake fluid specifications, rotor inspection.
Suspension:
Front telelever fork servicing (oil change, seal replacement), rear monolever shock absorber adjustments and overhaul, bearing checks.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery testing and maintenance, lighting system troubleshooting, instrument cluster diagnostics, horn and starter circuit.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Fairing removal and installation, seat servicing, fuel tank removal and replacement, frame inspection, handlebar and control lever adjustments.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, lubrication points, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable for Motronic system), performance problems.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacements, and electrical system repairs.
Inspections:
Detailed inspection checklists for critical components, wear limits, and damage assessment.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization (if applicable), throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever free play, idle speed settings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat twin (Boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
99.0 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Horsepower Hp:
90 hp (66 kW) @ 7,250 rpm (approximate)
Torque Lb-Ft:
70.8 lb-ft (96 Nm) @ 5,500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.4 fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 motorcycle-specific oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change
Length:
Approx. 2,220 mm (87.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,280 mm (50.4 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 256 kg (564 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 liters (6.6 US gallons), including 4 liters reserve
ABS:
BMW ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System) standard
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake with ABS II integration.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, LED taillight.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy steel trellis frame, integral fairing providing rider protection from elements.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, gear indicator, and warning lights. Often equipped with an optional heated grip indicator.
ABS System:
BMW ABS II provides significant safety enhancement for braking, reducing the risk of wheel lock-up under hard braking.
Accessories:
Provisions for heated grips, auxiliary power sockets, and often fitted with an aftermarket alarm system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Coolant Type:
Air/Oil cooled, no coolant required for engine.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fuel pump relay issues, ABS sensor faults, wheel bearings, and fork seals are common maintenance points.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, occasional issues with the Motronic wiring harness or accessory wiring can occur.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing innovative and durable motorcycles, known for their engineering excellence, boxer engines, and shaft drive systems dating back decades.
R Series Legacy:
The R1100RS is part of BMW's successful 'R' series, evolving from earlier air-cooled boxer twins. It represented a significant step forward with the introduction of the 4-valve per cylinder Boxer engine and advanced chassis designs like Telelever.
Production Period:
The R1100RS was produced from 1992 to 2001, with the 1999 model year being a key iteration.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
