Segment:
Dual-purpose adventure touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast riders, independent repair shops, and professional BMW technicians.
Competitors:
Honda Africa Twin, Suzuki V-Strom, Kawasaki KLR, Yamaha Ténéré (at the time of its release).
Distinctive Features:
Robust Boxer engine, long-travel suspension, shaft drive, integrated ABS, excellent off-road capability combined with touring comfort.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the 1130cc flat-twin Boxer engine, including maintenance, disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, and sensors.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition system, spark plugs, coils, and timing.
Transmission:
Six-speed gearbox, clutch assembly (single dry plate), final drive, and driveshaft maintenance.
Brakes:
Integral ABS II braking system, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, brake fluid specifications, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front Telelever suspension, rear Monolever swingarm, shock absorber servicing, and adjustments.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame, subframe, fairing, fuel tank, seat, and other body components.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire specifications, and pressure recommendations.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter service, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement, clutch adjustment.
Engine Overhaul:
Top-end rebuild (cylinder heads, valves), bottom-end procedures (crankshaft, bearings), piston and ring replacement.
Transmission Service:
Gearbox disassembly/reassembly, clutch replacement, final drive oil changes, driveshaft U-joint inspection.
Brake System Repair:
Brake bleeding, caliper rebuilding, line replacement, ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension Servicing:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, linkage lubrication.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common symptoms and fault codes.
Depth Level:
Detailed technical information suitable for professional technicians, including torque specifications, clearances, and specialized procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for electronic control units (ECU) and sensor systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine, transmission, and component rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (Boxer) engine.
Displacement:
1130 cc (1130cc)
Bore X Stroke:
95 mm x 79 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated.
Horsepower:
Approx. 85 hp (63 kW) at 6750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 97 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 fuel injection with electronic throttle control (EVO).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline, minimum 91 octane.
Oil Type:
BMW recommends SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil.
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS II (optional on earlier models, standard on some later versions of the R1150GS platform, likely available as an option for the 1999 model based on its introduction era).
Braking System:
Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 276 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear), linked system with ABS.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as per manual's recommendation for the boxer engine.
Transmission Oil Change:
Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-50.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder seal leaks, driveshaft U-joint wear, ABS sensor issues, alternator output degradation over time.
Electrical Concerns:
Can include corrosion in connectors, especially in adverse weather conditions.
