Market Position:
The BMW R1150GS is a highly regarded 'adventure touring' motorcycle, known for its robust engineering, long-distance comfort, and off-road capability, making it a popular choice for riders seeking versatility.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other large-displacement adventure motorcycles of its era, such as the Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, and Yamaha Super Tenere, offering a distinct blend of German engineering, Boxer engine character, and advanced rider aids like ABS.
Key Features:
Iconic Boxer-twin engine, Telelever front suspension for improved handling and comfort, Paralever rear suspension for stable power delivery, optional ABS II, durable construction, and a reputation for reliability on extended journeys.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of the 1130cc Boxer-twin engine, including cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system (air/oil), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, exhaust system, and engine management.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for the 5-speed gearbox, clutch operation (single dry plate), driveshaft, final drive (hypoid bevel gear), and rear axle assembly.
Chassis:
Complete guide to the steel tube frame, front suspension (BMW Telelever), rear suspension (BMW Paralever), steering system, bearings, and associated components.
Brakes:
In-depth information on the ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System), front and rear brake calipers, brake discs, master cylinders, brake lines, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, horn, and fuse box.
Fuel System:
Detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for the fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, and throttle body.
Bodywork:
Procedures for removing and installing body panels, fairings, seat, luggage systems, and minor cosmetic repairs.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, chain/driveshaft lubrication, brake fluid replacement, coolant checks (if applicable), air filter cleaning/replacement, and general inspection checklists.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic guides and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues, engine performance problems, starting difficulties, and braking system malfunctions.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, and suspension component refurbishment, including torque specifications and critical tolerances.
Adjustments:
Detailed instructions for valve adjustments, throttle cable adjustments, clutch cable adjustments, idle speed settings, and ABS system bleeding.
Depth:
Expert-level. Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to complex internal engine and transmission repairs, electrical diagnostics, and ABS system servicing.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) is most common for digital manuals, allowing for easy searching and printing.
Print Quality:
High resolution images and clear diagrams for accurate component identification and procedural guidance.
Binding Type:
Not applicable for digital format; for printed versions, typically comb-bound or perfect-bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format; for printed versions, typically durable, coated paper to withstand grease and shop conditions.
Engine Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin 'Boxer' engine
Displacement:
1130 cc (1130 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 85 HP (63 kW) at 6,750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 fuel injection system with electronic ignition
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG/SH/SJ motorcycle specific oil. Consult manual for exact BMW recommendations.
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 inches)
Width:
Approx. 910 mm (35.8 inches) (over fairing)
Height:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 inches) (seat height, unladen)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 220 kg (485 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 20 liters (5.3 US gallons), including a reserve of approx. 3.5 liters (0.9 US gallons)
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation cluster including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights. No integrated infotainment systems common in modern vehicles.
ABS System:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II system providing enhanced braking control and safety, especially in varied conditions. Manual provides full diagnostics and maintenance.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic electrical connections for accessories. No Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Final Drive Oil Change:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG/SH/SJ Motorcycle Specific. BMW Motorrad recommends specific brands/grades; consult manual.
Transmission Oil Specification:
N/A (Transmission uses engine oil)
Final Drive Oil Specification:
SAE 90 GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Known Issues:
Potential for clutch slave cylinder leaks, ABS sensor issues (particularly on early ABS II systems), final drive bearing wear (though generally robust), and occasional fuel pump issues. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for these and other common concerns.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history dating back to the early 20th century, renowned for its engineering prowess, innovative designs, and the development of the iconic Boxer engine, which has been a cornerstone of its motorcycle production for decades.
Model Evolution:
The R1150GS is the successor to the highly successful R1100GS, representing an evolution with a larger displacement engine, increased power and torque, refined suspension components (Telelever and Paralever), and an updated ABS system. It continued BMW's dominance in the adventure touring segment.
Production Years:
The R1150GS was produced from 1999 to 2003. The manual specifically references the 1994 model year. *Correction: The product title likely contains a typo. The R1150GS model line began in 1999. This manual is likely for a later model year R1150GS or is mislabeled for a 1994 model which would correspond to the R1100GS. Assuming the title's intent is to cover an R1150GS, the model details below are for the R1150GS platform.*