🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

K1100LT / K1100RS

Type:

Motorcycle

👋 Introduction

Description:

The BMW K1100LT and K1100RS represent BMW's flagship touring and sport-touring motorcycles of the early to mid-1990s, known for their distinctive boxer-twin (actually inline-four) engine configuration and robust build quality. This manual targets owners and independent workshops seeking professional-level repair and maintenance capabilities.

Context:

Competed with other premium touring and sport-touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (ST series), Yamaha (FJ series), Kawasaki (GTR series), and Moto Guzzi. BMW's unique engineering, especially the K-series engine layout and shaft drive, set it apart.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, factory-authorized procedures and specifications, enabling in-depth troubleshooting and repair that is essential for maintaining these complex German machines.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair for BMW K1100LT and K1100RS

Model Years:

Covers models produced from approximately 1992 through the end of the K1100 series production (around 1999).

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for comprehensive BMW workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (assumed, standard for most global service manuals)

Format:

Printed Book

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete teardown, assembly, diagnosis, and tuning of the K1100 engine

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, sensors

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, coil packs, timing adjustments, diagnostic procedures

Transmission:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, lubrication, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive system, universal joint, final drive unit maintenance and repair

Brakes:

ABS II system (where applicable), hydraulic system bleeding, pad and disc replacement, caliper service

Suspension:

Front fork overhaul (including oil and seal replacement), rear monoshock absorber service and adjustment

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant, fan, thermostat service and troubleshooting

Exhaust System:

Muffler, catalytic converter, header pipe inspection and replacement

Bodywork And Frame:

Fairing removal and installation, seat, tank, panel components, frame inspection

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication points, fluid checks

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable)

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair

Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Adjustment Procedures:

Valve clearance adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, idle speed setting

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque values, clearances, and critical dimensions for all components

Troubleshooting Guides:

Comprehensive troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostic trees.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams with component identification and troubleshooting steps for electrical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Exact torque values for all fasteners, critical for engine and chassis integrity.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for any specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic oil changes to complete engine and electrical system overhauls.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed steps for crankshaft, connecting rod, piston, and cylinder head overhaul.

Transmission Overhaul:

Procedures for gearbox disassembly, gear inspection, bearing replacement, and reassembly.

ABS System Service:

Specific procedures for bleeding the ABS system, checking hydraulic pressures, and component testing.

Classification:

Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Physical Printed Manual

Quality:

Professional printing, likely black and white diagrams and text. High-quality paper for workshop durability.

Binding:

Likely a perfect bound or spiral-bound format for ease of use on a workbench.

Type:

Durable, slightly glossy paper to withstand workshop conditions and repeated use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Configuration:

1093cc, 16-valve, Inline-Four Cylinder, DOHC

Bore X Stroke:

72.0 mm x 67.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

Approximately 100 hp (74 kW) @ 7500 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 101 Nm (74 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm

System:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)

Type:

Liquid-cooled

Engine Family:

BMW K-series Inline-Four

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, shim-adjusted valve clearance

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1495 mm (58.9 inches)

Dry Weight:

K1100LT: Approx. 265 kg (584 lbs); K1100RS: Approx. 237 kg (523 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 450-500 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS:

Optional ABS II system available on some models, particularly the LT

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes (typically 305mm), single rear disc brake (typically 274mm)

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, integrated turn signals, taillight/brake light

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, gear indicator, clock, hazard warning light.

ABS:

ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System) was a significant technological feature available on these models, enhancing braking safety.

Diagnostics:

The manual would cover diagnostic procedures for the Motronic system, which could involve proprietary BMW diagnostic tools of the era or manual testing methods.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact intervals and oil type)

Valve Check:

Every 20,000 km or as specified in the manual

Spark Plugs:

Replacement typically every 20,000-30,000 km

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (check manual for specific BMW approval)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change

Transmission Oil:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)

Final Drive Oil:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommended or equivalent)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Fuel Pump:

Older fuel pumps can become weak or fail, leading to starting issues or poor performance.

Hall Sender Unit:

Failure of the Hall sender unit can cause intermittent running or no-start conditions.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or loose connections in the wiring harness can lead to various electrical gremlins.

Clutch Slave Cylinder:

Leaking clutch slave cylinder can affect clutch operation.

Fork Seals:

Leaking front fork seals are a common maintenance item.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

K1100LT: 21 liters (5.5 US gal); K1100RS: 21 liters (5.5 US gal)

Front Tire:

Typically 120/70 ZR17 (check specific model and original fitment)

Rear Tire:

Typically 170/60 ZR17 (check specific model and original fitment)

📚 Vehicle History

Legacy:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of engineering excellence, particularly with its robust touring and sport-touring motorcycles, building on the legacy of the K-series.

Predecessors:

The K1100 series evolved from the K100 series, featuring an enlarged engine and improved chassis dynamics. The LT (Luxus Tourer) variant focused on comfort and touring, while the RS (Rennsport) variant offered a sportier profile.

Production Years:

Approximately 1992-1999

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Reputation:

The K-series motorcycles were generally praised for their performance, comfort, and build quality, particularly in the touring segment.