Market Position:
The BMW R1150GS is positioned as a premium, versatile adventure touring motorcycle, known for its robust engineering, long-distance comfort, and off-road capability. This manual targets owners and technicians who maintain and repair this specific high-performance machine.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other large-displacement adventure bikes of its era, such as the Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, and Moto Guzzi Norge. Its boxer engine and Telelever/Paralever suspension offered unique handling characteristics.
Key Features:
The R1150GS is renowned for its durable boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, advanced suspension systems (Telelever front, Paralever rear), and comprehensive rider amenities for long-distance travel. Its modular design allows for extensive customization and long service life.
Engine Management:
Includes fuel injection (EFI), ignition timing, emissions control
Power Transmission:
Covers the 5-speed gearbox, clutch operation, and driveshaft/final drive maintenance
Braking System:
Details ABS (if equipped), disc brake overhaul, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures
Telelever Paralever:
Extensive coverage of BMW's proprietary front and rear suspension systems
Electrical Diagnostics:
Covers starter, alternator, battery, lighting, and instrument cluster diagnostics
Cooling System:
Details oil cooling circuit and recommended coolant (if applicable for specific variants)
Exhaust System:
Maintenance and repair of exhaust headers and mufflers
Engine Rebuild:
Comprehensive instructions for piston, ring, valve, and bearing replacement
Fuel Injector Service:
Cleaning, testing, and replacement procedures for the EFI system
Clutch Replacement:
Step-by-step guide for single-plate dry clutch service
Suspension Overhaul:
Rebuilding/replacing fork seals, shock absorbers, and linkage components
Brake Bleeding:
Detailed procedures for bleeding both standard and ABS-equipped systems
Wheel Bearing Service:
Front and rear wheel bearing inspection and replacement
Electrical Component Testing:
Diagnostic methods for testing alternators, starters, ignition coils, and sensors
Valve Adjustment:
Correct procedures for setting valve clearances
Spark Plug Replacement:
Specifications and procedures
Oil And Filter Change:
Detailed instructions including capacities and filter part numbers
Air Filter Replacement:
Procedures and specifications
Depth:
Professional Level - Suitable for independent workshops and experienced DIY mechanics
Diagnostic Codes:
Likely includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting flowcharts
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Lists necessary BMW special tools for specific procedures
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval
Print Quality:
High-resolution digital scans suitable for printing
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder boxer
Displacement:
1130 cc (1.13 liters)
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, SOHC (camshaft in cylinder head)
Fueling:
Electronic fuel injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic 2.4
Horsepower:
Approximately 85 hp (63 kW) @ 6,250 rpm (for standard R1150GS)
Torque:
Approximately 71 lb-ft (96 Nm) @ 5,250 rpm (for standard R1150GS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/2 rating recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 20 liters (5.3 US gallons)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch
Final Drive:
Shaft drive via single-sided swingarm
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would be detailed within the manual, crucial for performance analysis.
Length:
Varies slightly by year and specific sub-model, typically around 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Varies, typically around 900 mm (35.4 in) at handlebars
Height:
Varies, typically around 1,350 mm (53.1 in) at seat
Dry Weight:
Approximately 230 kg (507 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 450 kg (992 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles generally do not receive formal crash test ratings like cars. Safety is inherent in design and rider skill.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on many models
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Specific caliper types (e.g., Brembo) and rotor sizes are detailed in the manual.
Frame Type:
Three-piece tubular steel frame providing rigidity and impact absorption.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals. Manual covers bulb replacement and electrical system diagnostics.
Infotainment Features:
Basic for the era. Typically includes an analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meters, clock, and potentially fuel level and gear indicator. Some models offered heated grips and a CAN-bus system for diagnostics.
Driver Assistance Features:
The primary driver assistance feature is the optional ABS system. Traction control was not a standard feature on this model. The manual covers ABS system diagnostics and maintenance.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily refers to the CAN-bus diagnostic port, which allows technicians to interface with the motorcycle's electronic control unit (ECU).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Specifics in manual.
Valve Check Interval:
Typically every 20,000 km or as specified by BMW.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years due to hygroscopic nature of brake fluid.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG/SH or higher specifications. Exact spec in manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil meeting API GL-4 or GL-5 specifications.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.65 liters (0.69 US quarts).
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 or 85W-140 gear oil.
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.25 liters (0.26 US quarts).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 hydraulic brake fluid.
Known Issues:
Potential issues may include alternator bearing failure (early models), fuel pump issues, ABS modulator problems, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and paralever joint wear. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these common problems.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history dating back to the 1920s, renowned for engineering innovation, boxer engines, and durable motorcycles, particularly in touring and adventure segments.
Model Evolution:
The R1150GS is part of the successful 'GS' lineage, evolving from the R100GS. It was later succeeded by the R1200GS, representing a significant step in performance and technology.
Production Years:
1999-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin Spandau, Germany
