🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1100RT / R1100RS / R1100GS

Model Variant:

RT (Touring), RS (Sport Touring), GS (Enduro/Dual-Sport)

Applicable Years:

2000 onwards (00-ON)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW R1100 series (RT, RS, GS) represented BMW Motorrad's successful expansion into larger displacement touring and dual-sport motorcycles, known for their distinctive Boxer engine, Telelever suspension, and robust build quality. They competed with other premium touring and adventure motorcycles of their era.

Competitors:

In the touring segment, competitors included models like the Honda ST1100, Kawasaki Concours 14. For the GS variant, it competed against bikes like the Honda Africa Twin and Triumph Tiger.

Engine Layout:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed two-cylinder 'Boxer' engine.

Suspension Front:

BMW Telelever system for precise steering and reduced fork dive under braking.

Suspension Rear:

BMW Monolever system with single-sided swingarm and adjustable rear shock.

Braking System:

BMW Integral ABS (optional on some models/years, standard on later R1100RT/RS) offering combined braking.

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive for low maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Overhaul

Secondary Coverage:

Restoration, Refurbishment, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (implied by typical professional automotive documentation)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage of the BMW R1100 series Boxer engine (oil-cooled, 2-valve configuration), including assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, and emissions.

Transmission:

Detailed information on the 5-speed transmission, clutch operation (dry single-plate clutch), final drive, and driveshaft maintenance.

Chassis And Suspension:

Coverage of the Telelever front suspension, Monolever rear suspension, shock absorber adjustments, wheel bearing maintenance, and steering head bearing service.

Brakes:

In-depth coverage of the BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for front and rear brakes, brake fluid replacement, caliper overhaul, and disc inspection.

Electrical System:

Extensive documentation on the motorcycle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), lighting, starter motor, and instrumentation.

Fuel System:

Detailed procedures for the Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, throttle body synchronization, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel filter replacement.

Bodywork And Fairings:

Information on disassembly and reassembly of body panels, fairings (specific to RT and RS models), seat, and luggage systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, valve clearance checks and adjustments, coolant checks, and brake fluid flushes.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable to this generation's diagnostic capabilities), and problem-solving guides.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components like the engine, transmission, and braking system.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Guidance on testing electrical components, tracing wiring faults, and understanding circuit functions with provided wiring diagrams.

Suspension And Steering Service:

Procedures for fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, wheel balancing, and steering head bearing adjustment.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely searchable text content within the PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-quality, clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Horizontally opposed twin-cylinder Boxer, four-stroke

Displacement:

1085 cc (1085 cm³)

Bore X Stroke:

99 mm x 70.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Cooling System:

Air/oil-cooled

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, overhead camshaft (OHC) driven by a timing chain

Power Output:

Approximately 90 hp (66 kW) at 7,250 rpm (varies slightly by model and tune)

Peak Torque:

Approximately 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm (varies slightly by model and tune)

Top Speed:

Approximately 200 km/h (124 mph) (model dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic 2.2 (or similar) electronic fuel injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as specified in manual, typically 95 RON)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gal), including a reserve of approximately 4 liters

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with oil filter change (refer to manual for exact spec)

Oil Type Specification:

Refer to manual for specific BMW approval oils, typically SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-50 motorcycle specific oil.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with dual spark plugs per cylinder

Exhaust System:

Two into one into two catalytic converter system (on models equipped with CAT)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh gearbox

Optional Features:

N/A (No automatic transmission option)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate clutch, hydraulically operated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive via single-sided swingarm

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.75 liters (0.79 US qt) (refer to manual for exact spec)

Transmission Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific BMW approval oils, typically SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length Rt:

Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)

Length Rs:

Approx. 2185 mm (86.0 in)

Length Gs:

Approx. 2210 mm (87.0 in)

Width Rt:

Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in) (including mirrors)

Width Rs:

Approx. 870 mm (34.3 in)

Width Gs:

Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in)

Height Rt:

Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 in) (windscreen adjusted)

Height Rs:

Approx. 1290 mm (50.8 in)

Height Gs:

Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 in) (seat height adjustable)

Wheelbase Rt:

Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)

Wheelbase Rs:

Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)

Wheelbase Gs:

Approx. 1474 mm (58.0 in)

Dry Weight Rt:

Approx. 251 kg (553 lbs)

Dry Weight Rs:

Approx. 224 kg (494 lbs)

Dry Weight Gs:

Approx. 215 kg (474 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate/manual, typically around 450 kg (990 lbs) (model dependent)

Seat Height Rt:

Approx. 805 mm (31.7 in) (adjustable)

Seat Height Rs:

Approx. 790 mm (31.1 in) (adjustable)

Seat Height Gs:

Approx. 840/860 mm (33.1/33.9 in) (adjustable)

Ground Clearance Gs:

Approx. 190 mm (7.5 in) (model dependent)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certifications:

CE marking (for European markets), compliance with relevant motorcycle safety standards of the era.

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available, often as an option, providing combined front and rear brake activation and anti-lock functionality.

Lighting:

Halogen headlights (dual bulbs on RT/RS), LED taillights (on later models), integrated turn signals.

Handling:

Telelever front suspension contributes to stable handling and braking. GS models feature more upright riding position for better control off-road.

Frame:

Steel tube frame providing rigidity and impact absorption.

Crash Protection:

Engine crash bars (standard on GS, optional on RT/RS), fairing protection for RT/RS models.

Mirrors:

Large, adjustable mirrors for good rearward visibility (RT models often featured integrated mirror housing).

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meter, gear indicator, fuel level, engine temperature, clock, and warning lights. RT models may have additional comfort features.

Audio System:

Some RT models were equipped with integrated audio systems, though typically basic by modern standards.

ABS System:

Integral ABS system significantly enhances braking safety.

Traction Control:

Not typically equipped with electronic traction control in this generation.

Diagnostic Port:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) capabilities may be present, allowing for connection to diagnostic tools via specific ports, detailed in the manual.

Windscreen:

Adjustable electric or manual windscreen on RT models for optimal rider comfort.

Heated Grips:

Available on most models, particularly RT and RS, as a factory option.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Always consult the manual for precise intervals.

Valve Clearance Check:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles). Requires engine disassembly to access adjusters.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual, generally around 20,000 km (12,000 miles) for standard plugs, potentially longer for iridium types.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Typically every 2 years to maintain optimal performance and prevent corrosion.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles) or as needed based on operating conditions.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW approval recommended, typically SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle specific.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 recommended (refer to manual for ABS specific requirements).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, BMW approved (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, fuel pump issues, alternator output fluctuations, starter motor solenoid, fuel injector clogging, wear in the Telelever pivot bearings, potential leaks from oil cooler lines.

Electrical Gremlins:

While generally robust, intermittent electrical issues can arise due to aging wiring connectors or components. The manual is crucial for diagnosing these.

ABS Modulator:

Older ABS units may require servicing or replacement if system faults occur.

Throttle Body Sync:

Requires periodic synchronization for smooth engine operation and optimal fuel delivery.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of engineering innovative motorcycles, particularly known for its Boxer engines and rider-focused design, emphasizing comfort, durability, and technological advancement.

Predecessors:

The R1100 series succeeded the R100 series, introducing significant technological upgrades such as fuel injection, ABS, and the Telelever front suspension. It represented BMW's modern approach to large-displacement motorcycles.

Successors:

The R1100 series was followed by the R1150 series and subsequently the R1200 series, continuing the evolution of the Boxer engine platform with further refinements and technological advancements.

Production Period:

The R1100 series was produced from 1993 through approximately 2006, with the '00-ON' in the product name indicating that this manual specifically covers models from the year 2000 onwards, which may include minor updates or variations within the R1100 platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily BMW's Berlin plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Overall Reputation:

The R1100 series is widely regarded as a milestone in BMW motorcycle development, praised for its comfort, stability, and engineering. The GS models cemented BMW's reputation in the adventure touring segment.

Reliability:

Generally considered reliable when properly maintained, with the Boxer engine known for its longevity. Specific component reliability can vary.

Technical Manual Quality:

The manual's 'Highly Detailed' and 'Hundreds Of Pages' description implies a high level of official or professionally produced documentation, meeting industry standards for technical repair information.