🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R 1150 GS

Model Nickname:

Güsse

Generation Code:

R21

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW R 1150 GS was a highly successful adventure touring motorcycle, renowned for its versatility, durability, and capability on both paved roads and off-road terrain. It competed against other large-displacement adventure bikes from manufacturers like KTM, Honda, and Triumph.

Key Competitors:

KTM Adventure series, Honda Africa Twin (older models), Triumph Tiger, Moto Guzzi Stelvio.

Model Key Features:

Flat-twin engine, shaft drive, robust suspension (Telelever front), long-travel suspension, extensive luggage options, comfortable ergonomics for touring, ABS (optional), heated grips (optional).

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

Likely covers models from its introduction around 2000-2005, as specific year is not provided. The R1150GS was produced from 1999 to 2005.

Page Count:

Not specified in product information. Typical comprehensive service manuals for this era and complexity can range from 300 to 800+ pages.

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

Assumed English based on product description. Official BMW manuals are often multilingual.

Format:

Not specified in product information. Could be printed, digital (PDF), or a combination.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (disassembly, assembly, inspection), cylinder heads, valve train, lubrication, cooling (air/oil), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission Systems:

Clutch (single plate dry clutch), gearbox (6-speed sequential manual), final drive (shaft drive), rear swingarm, Paralever system.

Electrical Systems:

Engine electrics, alternator, starter motor, battery, lighting system, ignition coils, sensors (e.g., crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position), ABS II (if equipped).

Chassis Systems:

Frame, suspension (Telelever front, Monolever rear with adjustable shock), brakes (dual front discs, single rear disc, ABS), wheels, tires, steering.

Bodywork And Controls:

Fairings, seating, fuel tank, handlebars, rider controls, instrument cluster, body panels.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance adjustment, brake fluid flush, clutch fluid flush, final drive oil change, gearbox oil change.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (if OBD-II applicable or via diagnostic port), electrical system diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component replacement, body panel repair/replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Expected to cover everything from basic routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, measurements, and component diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Unknown. If digital, likely PDF. If printed, bound pages.

Print Quality:

Unknown. High-quality service manuals typically feature clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding Type:

Unknown. If printed, likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop.

Paper Type:

Unknown. Professional manuals often use durable, often laminated, paper to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine

Engine Displacement:

1130 cc (1130cc)

Bore X Stroke:

101 mm x 70.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated rockers.

Power Output:

Approximately 85 hp (63 kW) at 6750 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by market/year).

Torque Output:

Approximately 97 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5250 rpm (specifications can vary slightly by market/year).

Cooling System:

Air and oil cooling via oil cooler.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic 2.4

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (octane rating may vary by region).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

20.5 liters (5.4 US gal)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed, constant-mesh, sequential manual gearbox

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel via Paralever single-sided swingarm

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios. Typical first gear is lower for off-road use, with higher gears for highway cruising.

Transmission Oil Type:

BMW recommends specific gearbox oil, often a synthetic gear oil meeting API GL-5 specifications. Consult manual for exact BMW part number and viscosity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

2230 mm (87.8 in)

Width:

900 mm (35.4 in) at handlebars

Height:

1350 mm (53.1 in) at seat

Wheelbase:

1487 mm (58.5 in)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 220 kg (485 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approximately 242 kg (533 lbs) with full fluids

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult manual and local regulations. Typically around 450 kg (990 lbs).

Front Suspension Travel:

190 mm (7.5 in)

Rear Suspension Travel:

200 mm (7.9 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS Availability:

Optional (BMW Motorrad Integral ABS)

Braking System:

Hydraulically operated disc brakes front and rear. Integral ABS unit typically links front and rear brakes. Front: Twin 305 mm discs. Rear: Single 265 mm disc.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, integrated turn signals.

Frame Type:

Three-piece frame consisting of front, main, and rear frame sections. Trellis design.

Impact ABSorption:

Frame structure and suspension design contribute to rider comfort and impact absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD multi-function display for fuel level, gear indicator, trip meters, time, temperature, and warning lights.

ABS:

Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (anti-lock braking system), which can be deactivated for off-road use. Early versions were ABS II, later versions integrated braking.

Power Outlet:

Typically includes a 12V power outlet for accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. Refer to manual for exact BMW recommendations.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles). Check manual for specific intervals for intake and exhaust valves.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Check manual, typically around 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Final Drive Oil Change:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or annually. Check manual for exact BMW recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW recommends specific semi-synthetic or synthetic motorcycle oils meeting API SG/SH/SJ/SL or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity grade 20W-50 or 15W-50. Consult manual for exact BMW part number (e.g., BMW Motor Oil ADVANTEC ASC 15W-50).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (for ABS and non-ABS systems). Replace every 2 years or as per manual.

Clutch Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (same as brake fluid). Replace every 2 years or as per manual.

Coolant Type:

Not applicable, engine is air/oil cooled. Some minor components might use specific greases or lubricants.

Common Issues:

Paralever spline wear (requires periodic greasing and inspection), fuel pump issues, alternator output issues (rectifier/stator), ABS sensor failures, clutch slave cylinder leaks, oil leaks from engine seals, exhaust cam follower wear.

Recalls:

Specific recalls vary by market and year. Owners should consult BMW Motorrad or official recall databases for their specific VIN.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and adventure touring capabilities. The 'GS' designation stands for Gelände/Strasse (Off-road/Street).

Predecessor:

BMW R 1100 GS

Successor:

BMW R 1200 GS

Key Updates From R1100Gs:

Increased engine displacement, improved fuel injection, higher power output, updated suspension geometry, revised styling, optional ABS II, and later integral ABS.

Production Years:

1999 - 2005

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

Highly regarded for its durability, comfort, and go-anywhere capability. Often cited as one of the best adventure bikes of its era.

Magazine Reviews:

Consistently received high marks from motorcycle publications for its performance, comfort, and versatility in road tests and adventure comparisons.