Market Position:
The K1100LT ('Tourer') and K1100RS ('Rennsport') represented BMW's premium sport-touring and sport-oriented motorcycles, respectively, during the mid-1990s. They are known for their distinctive 'flying brick' inline-four engine and robust touring capabilities.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other high-performance sport-touring bikes of the era from manufacturers like Honda (ST1100), Kawasaki (GTR1000), and Yamaha (FJ1200). Distinguished by its sophisticated engineering, shaft drive, and boxer-like engine layout.
Key Features:
1100cc Inline-4 Cylinder Engine, Fuel Injection, Shaft Drive, Integral ABS (optional), Comfortable Riding Position (LT), Sportier Ergonomics (RS), Full Fairings for Wind Protection.
Target Audience:
BMW K1100LT and K1100RS owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, and enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair these sophisticated machines.
Coverage Years:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Models Covered:
BMW K1100LT, BMW K1100RS
Regions Covered:
Global, with specific considerations for variations in emissions equipment or ABS systems by market (e.g., US vs. European models).
Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact count varies by edition, typically 500+ pages)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical, electrical, fuel injection), Transmission, Drivetrain (shaft drive), Suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), Brakes (ABS I/II), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, ignition, lighting, starting), Fuel System (fuel pump, injectors), Cooling System, Exhaust System, Frame and Bodywork, Instruments and Controls, Maintenance Procedures, Troubleshooting
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan operation, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, battery, alternator, starter, ignition, lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators), horn, instrument panel, sensors, and ECU.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Clutch Adjustment, Brake System Bleeding and Repair, Suspension Overhaul, Electrical System Diagnostics and Repair, Fuel System Cleaning and Testing, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Final Drive Service, Troubleshooting Faults, Wiring Harness Repair, ABS System Maintenance
Bodywork Repair:
Includes procedures for removing and installing fairings, body panels, seat assemblies, and luggage systems (LT).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic checks and adjustments to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and exploded views.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes detailed troubleshooting guides, fault code explanations (for Motronic system), and step-by-step diagnostic flows for electrical and mechanical issues.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline-four cylinder
Displacement:
1093 cc (1093 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
72 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Power Output:
Approx. 100 hp (74 kW) @ 8000 rpm (varies slightly by market)
Torque Output:
Approx. 101 Nm (74 lb-ft) @ 6750 rpm
Top Speed:
Over 200 km/h (125 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 Liters (5.5 US gal)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition (Motronic)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US qt)
Recommended Oil Grade:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific climates)
Valve Actuation:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox
Optional Transmission:
N/A
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Final Drive:
Enclosed driveshaft to rear wheel
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios are detailed in the manual, crucial for engine tuning and performance assessment.
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (for final drive and gearbox)
Length:
K1100LT: Approx. 2290 mm (90.2 in); K1100RS: Approx. 2190 mm (86.2 in)
Width:
K1100LT: Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in); K1100RS: Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in)
Height:
K1100LT: Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in); K1100RS: Approx. 1250 mm (49.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1510 mm (59.4 in)
Dry Weight:
K1100LT: Approx. 235 kg (518 lbs); K1100RS: Approx. 226 kg (498 lbs)
Wet Weight:
K1100LT: Approx. 257 kg (567 lbs); K1100RS: Approx. 246 kg (542 lbs)
Front Tire Size:
120/70 ZR 17
Rear Tire Size:
170/60 ZR 17
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum alloy
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety relies on rider skill and machine maintenance. Specific crash test ratings for motorcycles of this era are not directly comparable to automotive standards.
Active Safety Features:
BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) I and II (optional on RS, standard on later LT models). Powerful disc brakes front and rear.
Passive Safety Features:
Sturdy frame, integrated fairings for rider protection from elements, reliable lighting systems.
Front Brakes:
Dual 305 mm discs, 4-piston calipers
Rear Brakes:
Single 280 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Infotainment Features:
Basic analog instrumentation, tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, gear indicator. Optional radio/cassette player on some LT models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) I or II.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (no modern electronic connectivity features)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) includes valve clearance checks, spark plug replacement, and inspection of all major components. (Refer to manual for specific tasks at each interval).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommends their own brand or equivalent, usually a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for ABS and non-ABS systems)
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (shared with brake system)
Common Issues:
Fuel injector O-ring degradation, aging fuel lines, occasional issues with the Motronic control unit, wear on paralever pivot bearings, and starter motor solenoid problems. ABS system sensor/pump reliability can be a concern on higher mileage units. Rubber component aging (hoses, mounts).
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW Part # 11 42 1 458 096 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Part Number:
BMW Part # 13 72 1 454 501 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Engine Oil Drain Plug Torque:
Refer to manual, typically around 25 Nm (18.5 lb-ft)
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, robust build quality, and innovation in motorcycle design, particularly in touring and sport-touring segments.
Model Evolution:
The K1100 models evolved from the K100 series, featuring an increased displacement to 1100cc and significant chassis and aerodynamic improvements. The LT variant focused on long-distance comfort with a larger fairing and amenities, while the RS offered a sportier riding position and more aggressive styling.
Production Period:
1987-1993 (K100LT/RS), 1993-1997 (K1100LT/RS)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
