Vehicle Market Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Vehicle Target Audience:
Riders seeking a capable and comfortable motorcycle for both touring and spirited riding, with an emphasis on BMW's engineering and reliability.
Key Competitors Era:
Honda VFR, Yamaha FJR1300, Ducati ST series, Kawasaki GTR series.
Manual Value Proposition:
The 'Best Manual Available' emphasizes completeness and accuracy, differentiating it from inferior or incomplete alternatives, ensuring correct first-time repairs.
Vehicle Defining Characteristics:
Unique Boxer engine configuration, Telelever front suspension, robust build quality, and a blend of sportiness and long-distance comfort.
Engine System Coverage:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, and repair of the Boxer engine, including valve clearance, fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, lubrication, and cooling.
Transmission System Coverage:
Service and repair of the gearbox, clutch (single dry plate, hydraulic actuation), final drive, and associated components.
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Front Telelever suspension, rear Monolever swingarm, shock absorber adjustment and replacement, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, and frame components.
Braking System Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of the ABS II system (or optional ABS-N), brake fluid replacement, pad and disc service, caliper overhaul, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical System Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, battery management, starter motor, alternator, lighting system, instrument cluster diagnostics, and ECU troubleshooting.
Fuel System Coverage:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulator, and ECU control for fuel delivery.
Bodywork And Fairings Coverage:
Removal and installation of fairings, fuel tank, seat, and related trim components.
Routine Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacement (oil, air), spark plug replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable for specific variants or aftermarket), lubrication points.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common faults, fault code reading (if applicable via diagnostic port), component testing using multimeters and specialized tools.
Repair And Overhaul Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission disassembly and reassembly, brake system bleeding and overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for tasks like engine timing, suspension adjustments, and bearing replacement.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom analysis and systematic troubleshooting steps.
Repair Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, and assembly procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls, including component specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke flat-twin (Boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
Two valves per cylinder, operated by pushrods and rocker arms
Horsepower:
Approx. 90 hp (67 kW) at 7,250 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with sequential injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
15W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt)
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual gearbox
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with single-sided Paralever swingarm
Gearbox Features:
Smooth shifting, integrated into the engine casing.
Gearbox Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 (API GL-5)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.5 liters (0.53 US qt)
Safety Certification:
Meets or exceeds relevant national and international motorcycle safety standards for its production era.
Braking System:
BMW Motorrad ABS II (anti-lock braking system) or optional ABS-N, Dual disc front brakes, Single disc rear brake.
Suspension System:
Telelever front suspension for improved stability and feedback, Monolever rear suspension.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame providing rigidity and rider protection.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, clock, gear indicator, warning lights, and diagnostic indicators.
ABS System:
BMW Motorrad ABS II or ABS-N provides significant safety enhancement by preventing wheel lock-up during braking.
Diagnostic Port:
BMW proprietary diagnostic connector for service and fault code retrieval, requiring specialized tools or adapters.
ECU System:
Bosch Motronic engine control unit managing fuel injection and ignition timing for optimal performance and emissions.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for precise BMW recommendations).
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual, often around 20,000-40,000 km depending on plug type.
Telelever Pivot Grease:
BMW recommends specific high-temperature grease, details in manual.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, rear shock absorber (especially aftermarket replacements), brake pads and discs, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Wiring harness connections, alternator brushes, starter solenoid issues can arise with age and mileage. Fuel pump can be a failure point.
Engine Related Concerns:
While generally robust, specific attention to valve clearance and proper oil changes are crucial for longevity. Oil leaks from the cylinder base gaskets or crankshaft seal can occur.
Bmw Motorcycle History:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1920s, known for innovation, quality, and engineering prowess.
R1100S Development:
Introduced as a sportier evolution of BMW's Boxer engine platform, bridging the gap between traditional touring bikes and dedicated sportbikes.
Key Innovations R1100S:
Telelever front suspension, fuel injection, integral ABS (optional) were significant technological advancements for its time.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin-Spandau, Germany
Production Years Overall:
1998-2006
Editorial Reviews Era:
Generally well-received by motorcycle press for its unique engineering, comfortable ride, and touring capability, though sometimes criticized for its weight and less 'raw' feel compared to Italian or Japanese rivals.
Owner Satisfaction Trend:
Owners often praise its long-distance comfort, reliability (when properly maintained), and distinctive character, making it a sought-after model for touring enthusiasts.