🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1100RT

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

R259

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Sport Touring Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Touring riders, BMW enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.

Competitors:

Honda ST1100, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJ1200, Triumph Trophy 1200.

Features Of Vehicle:

Shaft drive, powerful Boxer engine, Integral ABS, comfortable ergonomics, large fairing for weather protection.

Manual Utility:

Essential for maintaining the complex systems of the R1100RT, enabling owners to perform routine maintenance and advanced repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 BMW R1100RT

Secondary Coverage:

May include closely related model years or variants (verify with specific manual content)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical for comprehensive service manuals, often 500+ pages)

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair for the 1100cc Boxer engine.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, and emissions control.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Gearbox (5-speed), clutch operation, final drive, driveshaft, and universal joints.

Electrical System:

Full electrical system schematics, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system, lighting, starting system, and ECU.

Brakes:

BMW Integral ABS II system, front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, and ABS component diagnosis.

Suspension Steering:

Front Telelever suspension, rear Monolever swingarm, shock absorbers, fork seals, steering head bearings, and wheel bearings.

Bodywork Chassis:

Frame inspection, fairing removal and installation, seat, luggage systems, and general chassis components.

Instrumentation Controls:

Dashboard layout, instrument cluster functions, control levers, switches, and indicators.

Cooling System:

Oil cooling system, oil circulation, oil filter replacement, and related components.

Maintenance:

Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, drive shaft lubrication.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable for the era), electrical system testing.

Repair:

Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components.

Overhaul:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including component specifications for rebuilding.

Adjustment:

Valve clearance adjustments, throttle cable adjustments, clutch lever adjustments, suspension settings.

Installation Replacement:

Component replacement guides for wear items and upgraded parts.

Troubleshooting Electrical:

Detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures for all electrical components, including Motronic system issues.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and suspension fasteners.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic owner maintenance to full professional workshop level repairs and diagnostics.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston ring replacement, bearing checks, seal replacement, and cylinder head work.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Digital Delivery:

Instant download, providing immediate access to repair information.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing with diagrams and text.

Binding For Physical:

Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals were typically bound.

Paper Type For Physical:

Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals were typically printed on durable paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed flat-twin (Boxer) engine.

Displacement:

1085 cc

Bore X Stroke:

99 mm x 70.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated, overhead camshaft.

Cooling System:

Dual-circuit oil cooling for the cylinders and heads.

Horsepower:

90 hp (67 kW) @ 6750 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON

Oil Capacity:

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

Recommended Oil:

SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (check manual for specific BMW approval or alternative viscosities based on climate).

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox:

5-speed manual constant mesh gearbox.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive via Monolever single-sided swingarm.

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated clutch.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in the manual, crucial for performance and torque characteristics.

Transmission Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (check manual for exact BMW specification and capacity for final drive).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 945 mm (37.2 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in) at windshield

Dry Weight:

Approx. 247 kg (545 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 273 kg (602 lbs) (fully fueled, etc.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 480 kg (1058 lbs) for touring bikes.

Fuel Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gallons), including a 4-liter reserve.

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System) - standard on most markets for the R1100RT.

Braking System:

Linked braking (front lever actuates front and rear brakes, rear pedal primarily actuates rear brake with ABS logic). Full front and rear disc brakes.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, rear brake light.

Fairing:

Large, aerodynamic fairing with adjustable windscreen for rider protection.

Handling:

Stable chassis, Telelever front suspension for reduced dive under braking, contributing to rider confidence.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional factory-fitted radio/cassette or CD player, often integrated into the fairing.

ABS System:

BMW Integral ABS II: A significant safety feature for its time, improving stability and control.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on some models, controlled via handlebar switches.

Diagnostic Port:

Diagnostic connector for connecting to BMW diagnostic tools (for professional use or advanced DIYers).

Dashboard Features:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital clock, fuel gauge, gear indicator, warning lights, temperature gauge.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact schedule).

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as indicated by performance. (Refer to manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Usually around 20,000 km (12,000 miles). (Refer to manual).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Typically every 2 years. (Refer to manual for specific interval and type).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (verify manual for BMW approved oils like BMW Motor Oil SAE 20W/50).

Transmission Oil Specification:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (verify manual for specific BMW recommendation).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific ABS requirements).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, rear shock absorber, front fork seals, fuel pump issues, ABS system faults.

Diagnostic Challenges:

Diagnosing ABS faults and intermittent electrical issues can require specialized knowledge and tools, which this manual provides.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycle History:

BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to 1923, known for engineering excellence and innovative technology.

R Series Evolution:

The R1100RT is part of the evolution of BMW's Boxer engine motorcycles, building upon the legacy of the R100RT and introducing newer technologies like the Paralever, Telelever, and fuel injection.

Production Period:

The R1100RT was produced from 1995 to 2001, with the 1997 model being a significant part of its production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year are not readily cataloged, the R1100RT series generally received positive reviews for its touring capability and engineering. BMW motorcycles as a brand have consistently been recognized for quality and innovation.