Segment:
Luxury Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Touring riders, commuters, and enthusiasts seeking a comfortable, capable, and technologically advanced motorcycle.
Key Competitors:
Honda ST1100/ST1300, Kawasaki GTR1400, Yamaha FJR1300, Moto Guzzi Norge 1200.
Distinctive Selling Points:
BMW's signature Boxer twin engine, Telelever front suspension for enhanced ride comfort and handling, Integral ABS braking, robust build quality, and extensive touring capabilities.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the R1150 flat-twin engine, including disassembly, assembly, timing, valve adjustment, lubrication, cooling (oil), and fuel injection system.
Transmission:
Comprehensive instructions for the 5-speed gearbox, clutch operation, final drive unit (including driveshaft and paralever rear suspension).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (BMW Telelever front, Monolever rear with integrated Paralever), including fork overhaul, shock absorber servicing, and wheel bearing replacement.
Brakes:
Detailed information on the Integral ABS II braking system (if equipped), including hydraulic system bleeding, component replacement (calipers, master cylinders, lines), and brake pad maintenance.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the motorcycle's electrical systems, including wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, and starter motor.
Fuel System:
Service and troubleshooting for the fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4), fuel pump, fuel filter, and throttle body.
Bodywork And Fairing:
Information on removing and reinstalling fairings, body panels, seat assembly, windshield, and luggage systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug servicing, valve clearance checks and adjustments, tire pressure checks, brake fluid replacement, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common problems, electrical faults, engine performance issues, and braking system anomalies.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components like the clutch, transmission gears, engine bearings, suspension components, electrical sensors, and body panels.
Rebuilding And Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding the engine, transmission, fuel injection system, and brake system components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder, boxer engine
Displacement:
1130 cc (68.9 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm (3.90 x 2.78 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, OHC (pushrod actuation)
Horsepower Peak:
95 hp (70 kW) @ 7,250 rpm
Torque Peak:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5,750 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium, 95 RON (91 AKI)
Fuel Capacity:
25 L (6.6 US gal)
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with BMW Paralever system
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.46:1, 2nd: 2.34:1, 3rd: 1.76:1, 4th: 1.45:1, 5th: 1.22:1)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W/90 API GL-5 (refer to manual for specific BMW part numbers and capacities)
ABS:
Integral ABS II (optional, standard on some models)
Braking System:
Dual front discs with 4-piston calipers, single rear disc with 2-piston caliper (ABS system enhances safety).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, integrated turn signals.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy steel-trellis frame providing excellent rigidity and rider protection.
Audio System:
Optional integrated audio system (radio, CD player) available on some models, often with handlebar controls.
ABS System:
Integral ABS II (BMW's integrated braking system where both brakes can be actuated by the brake lever, with ABS control for both front and rear wheels).
Cruise Control:
Optional electronic cruise control system available on later models.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive dashboard with analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD multi-function display showing fuel level, gear indicator, clock, trip meters, and warning lights.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), inspect more frequently in dusty conditions.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years, or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad recommends BMW Motor Oil Super 20W-50 or equivalent API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3 rated oil. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fuel pump reliability (especially in earlier models), potential for FD spline wear if not regularly greased.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with the self-adjusting sidestand switch or dashboard indicator lights, though generally reliable.
Suspension Notes:
Telelever requires periodic checks for proper lubrication and seal integrity.
Spark Plugs:
Uses a dual-spark plug setup for improved combustion. Refer to manual for correct type and gap (e.g., NGK CR9EK or similar).
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Motorcycle Division Establishment:
Founded in 1916, BMW Motorrad established itself as a pioneer in motorcycle engineering.
Development Focus:
Enhancements over the R1100RT included a larger engine, improved ergonomics, a more advanced ABS system, and updated styling.
Production Years:
1995–2009 (R1150RT specifically 2001-2006/2007 depending on market)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
Market Reception:
Consistently praised for its comfort, stability, and long-distance touring capabilities.
Motorcycle Journal Reviews:
Received positive reviews for its blend of performance, comfort, and BMW's renowned engineering.
Emissions Standards:
Designed to meet contemporary emissions regulations for its respective production years.
