Segment:
Sport touring motorcycle, known for its balance of performance, comfort, and technology.
Competitors:
Competed against other large-displacement sport-touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (VFR series), Kawasaki (ZZR series), and Yamaha (FJR series).
Engine Layout:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer engine).
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, reducing maintenance compared to chain-driven motorcycles.
Suspension Technology:
Paralever rear suspension for reduced drivetrain lash under acceleration and deceleration.
Braking System:
Optional or standard Integral ABS system, a significant safety feature for its time.
Engine:
Full coverage of the boxer-twin engine, including cylinder head, valve train, piston, crankshaft, lubrication, and cooling systems.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, and throttle body.
Ignition System:
Diagnosis and repair of the electronic ignition system, spark plugs, coils, and sensors.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 6-speed gearbox, clutch assembly, and final drive.
Suspension:
Front fork (Telelever or conventional depending on exact sub-model/year, R1100S typically has conventional front forks), rear shock absorber (Paralever system), and related components.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of the BMW Integral ABS (optional or standard depending on year/market), brake fluid replacement, caliper service, disc inspection, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, battery maintenance, alternator, starter motor, lighting, horn, and instrument cluster.
Bodywork And Frame:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, frame inspection, and body component repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common issues, including fault code interpretation if applicable to the era.
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid flushes, and general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical problems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools required for certain procedures.
Engine Rebuild:
Information on engine disassembly, component inspection, tolerances, and reassembly for major overhauls.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of sensors, actuators, wiring harnesses, and ECUs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures.
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Print Quality:
Crisp, clear text and sharp, detailed illustrations and photographs (if printed).
Binding:
Durable binding suitable for workshop use (if printed).
Paper Type:
High-quality, durable paper stock resistant to grease and oil (if printed).
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Cooling System:
Air/oil-cooled
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Power Output:
Approx. 95 hp (70 kW) at 7,250 rpm
Torque Output:
Approx. 106 Nm (78 lb-ft) at 5,750 rpm
Top Speed:
Approx. 220 km/h (137 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Fuel Capacity:
25 liters (6.6 US gallons)
Length:
Approx. 2,180 mm (85.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 860 mm (33.9 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1,275 mm (50.2 in) at seat
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 217 kg (478 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 235 kg (518 lbs) with full fluids
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 450 kg (992 lbs), consult manual for exact figures.
Crash Safety:
Motorcycles of this era did not have standardized crash ratings like automobiles. Safety is primarily inherent through design and optional features.
ABS:
Optional BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on many models, offering enhanced braking control.
Lighting:
Dual halogen headlights for improved visibility.
Frame Construction:
Robust chassis design providing stability and rider protection.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort over longer distances, reducing fatigue.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital odometer, trip meter, clock, and warning lights. Some models may have an external temperature gauge.
ABS System:
The Integral ABS system, when equipped, functions as both a linked brake system and an anti-lock system.
Diagnostics Port:
Early diagnostic ports may be present, primarily for technician use with specialized BMW diagnostic tools of the era.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Valve Adjustment:
Recommended every 20,000 km (12,500 miles) or as per manual. Requires checking clearances and shimming if necessary.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage, to maintain braking performance and prevent corrosion.
Gearbox Oil Change:
Recommended every 20,000 km (12,500 miles).
Final Drive Oil Change:
Recommended every 20,000 km (12,500 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50, API SG or higher. BMW recommends specific motorcycle oils. Consult manual for exact grade and quantity (approx. 4 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 gear oil. Consult manual for capacity.
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 gear oil. Consult manual for capacity.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or poor contact in electrical connectors, especially at the alternator and starter solenoid, can lead to starting issues or charging problems.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Leaking clutch slave cylinder seal is a common point of failure, leading to loss of hydraulic pressure.
Fuel Pump:
Occasional premature failure of the in-tank fuel pump.
Swingarm Bearings:
Wear in the swingarm pivot bearings can lead to imprecise handling.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad, a division of BMW AG, has a long and illustrious history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the early 20th century.
Predecessors:
Followed the R100RS and R100RT, offering a more modern and powerful platform.
Successors:
The R1100S paved the way for later Boxer-engined sport touring models like the R1150RS, R1200ST, and current R1250RT/RS.
Production Period:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau plant)
