Segment:
Sport Touring / Standard Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge for the BMW R850R/R850C.
Competitors:
Models from Honda (ST series), Yamaha (FJR), Kawasaki (GTR), Moto Guzzi (California, Norge), and Ducati (ST series) offered comparable versatility and touring capabilities.
Features:
Smooth Boxer twin engine, comfortable ergonomics for touring, reliable shaft drive, and BMW's signature build quality.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, throttle body, idle control, and fuel pressure regulation.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, and troubleshooting. Clutch operation and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, ignition system, lighting, instruments, switches, fuses, relays, and ECU diagnostics.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic, possibly with Telelever system depending on exact variant), rear shock absorber (Monolever system), swingarm, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, and alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely Brembo calipers), brake discs, brake lines, master cylinders, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures, and ABS (if equipped).
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel removal and installation, tire pressure, tire replacement, and wheel balancing.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, tank, seat, fenders, and other body panels removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Routine service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant check/replacement, and valve clearance adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, error code interpretation (if applicable), and fault finding across all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for component replacement and overhaul, including engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, and electrical system fixes.
Installation:
Instructions for installing replacement parts and accessories, ensuring correct fitting and function.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical tolerances, and diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine overhaul and electrical diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (Boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated overhead valves (OHV)
Horsepower:
Approx. 70 hp (51 kW) at 6750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) at 5250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91-98 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (5.5 US gallons)
Type:
Wet sump lubrication
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change
Recommended Oil:
BMW recommends SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle oil meeting API SG or higher specification (e.g., Castrol Power 1).
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the same way as cars; focus is on rider safety through design and features.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes (likely 305mm) with twin-piston calipers, single disc rear brake (likely 276mm) with twin-piston caliper. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) often available.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Frame:
Steel tube frame providing rigidity and rider protection.
Ergonomics:
Comfortable riding position designed to reduce fatigue on longer journeys.
Defensive Driving:
Good visibility due to upright seating position and effective mirrors.
Infotainment System:
Basic for its era. Typically features an analog speedometer, tachometer, and basic warning lights. No integrated infotainment systems like modern motorcycles.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available, significantly enhancing safety during braking.
Connectivity:
No integrated electronic connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
ECU:
Bosch Motronic 2.2 engine management system for fuel injection and ignition timing.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact BMW recommendations.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter should be replaced at every oil change.
Spark Plug Service Interval:
Typically around 20,000 km (12,400 miles). Check and adjust gap as needed.
Valve Clearance Interval:
Usually at 10,000 km or 20,000 km intervals, depending on model variations and recommendations. This is a critical maintenance item for Boxer engines.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage, to maintain braking performance.
Drive Shaft Maintenance:
Lubrication and inspection of drive shaft splines and universal joints is crucial and recommended periodically (e.g., annually or every 10,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle oil, API SG or higher.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (or specified by BMW).
Coolant:
If equipped with an oil cooler that uses coolant, use a mix of BMW approved coolant and distilled water. Check specific model details.
Final Drive Oil:
Hypoid gear oil SAE 90 (API GL-5).
Common Issues:
Spline wear on the drive shaft and rear wheel hub can occur if not properly lubricated. Valve clearance adjustment is critical for smooth operation and longevity.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history dating back to the early 20th century, known for pioneering boxer engines, shaft drive, and innovative designs like the Telelever and Duolever suspension systems.
Predecessors:
The R850R/R850C evolved from the R-series boxer platform, particularly the R100 and the R80. It served as a more accessible and less powerful alternative to the larger R1100/R1150 models.
Successors:
The R850R was succeeded by models like the R1150R and later the R1200R series, which continued the naked sport-touring tradition.
Production Years:
The R850R and its variants were produced from 1995 to 2006.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
