Market Position:
The BMW R 80 GS and R 100 R series are iconic 'adventure touring' and 'roadster' motorcycles, respectively, known for their robust engineering, air-cooled boxer twin engines, and versatility. This manual targets owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain and repair these classic machines.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with other large-displacement touring and off-road motorcycles of its era, but the BMW boxer platform offers a unique character and durability. Manual availability for these models is crucial for their continued usability.
Key Features:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams, wiring schematics, troubleshooting flowcharts, comprehensive torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, recommended service intervals.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Chassis, Electrical System, Bodywork, Suspension, Brakes, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Routine Service
Chassis And Suspension Coverage:
Front fork (including oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear suspension (Monolever/Paralever pivot bearing service, shock absorber maintenance), wheel bearings, steering head bearings, frame inspection and repair recommendations.
Manual Type:
Workshop/Service/Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Airhead Boxer Engine (R80GS, R100R variants), Gearbox, Drive Shaft, Suspension (Monolever/Paralever), Braking Systems (Disc Brakes), Fuel Injection (Motronic), Carburetion (for specific R80GS models), Ignition System, Electrical Components, Lighting, Charging System, Starting System
Electrical System Coverage:
Full wiring diagrams for various model year configurations, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), ignition system (points or electronic), lighting circuits, starter motor circuit, instrument cluster and controls.
Procedures Included:
Engine Rebuild, Carburetor Adjustment/Rebuild, Fuel Injection Diagnosis, Gearbox Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake Bleeding/Service, Suspension Fork Service, Rear Shock Absorber Maintenance, Electrical System Troubleshooting, Valve Adjustment, Spark Plug Replacement, Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Bearing Service, Wheel Service, Tire Mounting/Balancing, Frame Inspection, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications for all fasteners
Carburetor Specific Procedures:
Detailed overhaul, cleaning, jetting, synchronization, and troubleshooting for Bing and other carburetor types used on R80GS.
Fuel Injection Specific Procedures:
Diagnosis and troubleshooting of Motronic EFI system components (sensors, injectors, fuel pump, ECU), basic adjustments.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and gearbox rebuilds, detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting guides)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder boxer
Bore Stroke R80Gs:
82 mm x 74.6 mm (R80GS)
Bore Stroke R100R:
94 mm x 70.6 mm (R100R)
Displacement R80Gs:
797.5 cc (R80GS)
Displacement R100R:
979.7 cc (R100R)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod actuated
Horsepower R80Gs:
50 hp @ 6,500 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower R100R:
60 hp @ 7,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque R80Gs:
57 Nm @ 5,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque R100R:
70 Nm @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Compression Ratio R80Gs:
8.2:1 (approx.)
Compression Ratio R100R:
9.5:1 (approx.)
Fuel System R80Gs:
Dual 32mm Bing carburetors (typically)
Fuel System R100R:
BMW Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) or dual 32mm Bing carburetors depending on specific market/year
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON (87 AKI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (approx.)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than cars; focus is on design and handling)
Active Features:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, robust chassis, well-balanced suspension design (Monolever/Paralever), good rider ergonomics
Passive Features:
Durable frame construction, resilient boxer engine layout
Infotainment Features:
N/A (These are classic motorcycles, focus is on mechanicals and rider interface, not electronic entertainment systems)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS, traction control, etc., on most models of this era, though some later R100R variants may have ABS as an option)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or annually (whichever comes first)
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 10,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 10,000 km
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Every 20,000 km
Final Drive Oil Change Interval:
Every 20,000 km
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle-specific, API SG or higher (refer to manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 liters (with filter change)
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W/90 GL-5 (manual transmission fluid)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 liter
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 80W/90 GL-5 (manual transmission fluid)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.22 liters
Common Issues:
Gasket leaks (especially around engine cylinders and gearbox), wear on the Monolever/Paralever pivot bearings, starter motor solenoids, intermittent electrical connections, clutch slave cylinder leaks, carburetor synchronization issues (for carbureted models), fuel injector issues (for EFI models).
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history in motorcycle production, dating back to the early 20th century, with a reputation for engineering excellence and durability, particularly with its boxer-twin platform.
Model Evolution:
The R 80 GS, launched in 1980, was a groundbreaking motorcycle, blending the capabilities of an off-road bike with the touring comfort and reliability of BMW's boxer twins, creating the adventure touring segment. The R 100 R, introduced later, refined the street-oriented 'roadster' aspect of the boxer platform with a more powerful engine and often updated styling and suspension (Paralever).
Production Years R80Gs:
1980 - 1987 (primarily)
Production Years R100R:
1991 - 1996 (primarily)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Recognitions:
Widely recognized for creating the adventure motorcycle segment (R80GS). Both models are celebrated for their build quality, longevity, and rider satisfaction among enthusiasts.
Owner Ratings:
Consistently high ratings from owners for reliability, touring capability, and character.
Certifications:
N/A (Not applicable to aftermarket manuals)
