Market Position:
Premium sport-touring and adventure touring motorcycles, known for their engineering and long-distance capabilities.
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing/ST1100, Yamaha FJ1200/GTS1000, Kawasaki GTR1000, Moto Guzzi California.
Engine Layout:
Longitudinal Boxer Twin (unique for motorcycles).
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, eliminating chain maintenance.
Suspension:
Advanced Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension systems for superior ride and handling.
Braking:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on many models.
Engine System:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication.
Transmission System:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch service, final drive.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (Telelever/Duolever variants where applicable), rear shock absorber (Paralever), steering head bearings, wheel bearings.
Braking System:
ABS II/III systems, brake fluid replacement, caliper overhaul, disc inspection, hydraulic lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition switch, instrument cluster, diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, throttle bodies, pressure regulator, fuel tank servicing.
Bodywork Trim:
Fairings, seat removal, luggage systems, body panel repair and replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Component Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding major components like engine, gearbox, and suspension.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Instructions for using BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1/DIS) where applicable for electrical system checks and fault code reading.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Depth:
Professional level, covering all aspects from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer twin-cylinder with DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts) and four valves per cylinder.
Displacement:
1085 cc (1085 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
~90 HP @ 7250 RPM (varies slightly by model)
Torque:
~98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5500 RPM (varies slightly by model)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON (Octane rating)
Ignition:
Digital ignition system with knock sensor.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission with constant mesh gears.
Clutch:
Single dry plate clutch, cable-actuated.
Final Drive:
Shaft drive to the rear wheel.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios provided in manual, but generally geared for touring and versatility.
Transmission Oil:
BMW recommends specific gear oil or suitable SAE 75W-90 synthetic GL-5 rated gear oil. Capacity approx. 0.25L (refer to manual for exact type).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1480 mm (58.3 inches) - varies by model and suspension settings.
Seat Height:
Approx. 790-820 mm (31.1-32.3 inches) depending on model and adjustments.
Dry Weight:
Approx. 220-240 kg (485-529 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs) (refer to specific model manual).
ABS:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) - often optional or standard depending on the specific R1100 variant and year.
Braking System:
Powerful dual-disc front brakes, single-disc rear brake, with optional ABS.
Frame Construction:
Sturdy steel frame and integrated crash protection features.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital odometer, trip meters, fuel level, clock, engine warning lights. RT models often feature more advanced displays.
ABS:
Integral ABS systems, which can be disengaged for off-road use on GS models.
Diagnostic Ports:
Specific diagnostic connectors for connecting BMW's proprietary diagnostic equipment.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. Engine oil and filter.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
BMW recommends specific grades, typically semi-synthetic or synthetic SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50, API SG or higher. Capacity: ~4.0L with filter change. (Refer to manual for exact specs).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type if ABS is present).
Coolant:
Air/oil-cooled, no coolant for the engine block. Transmission oil and final drive oil are specified separately.
Fuel Pump Relay:
Potential failure leading to intermittent or no-start conditions.
Hall Sender Unit:
Can cause engine misfires or stalling.
Brake Lever Actuation:
On ABS models, the brake lever actuates the front brake and a portion of the rear brake; incorrect bleeding or component failure can affect braking performance.
Fuel Injector Seals:
Can degrade over time, leading to vacuum leaks or fuel smell.
Brand History:
BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history dating back to the early 20th century, known for its engineering prowess and durable motorcycles.
R1100 Introduction:
The R1100 series represented a significant technological leap for BMW's boxer twins, introducing the four-valve cylinder heads, Motronic EFI, and advanced suspension systems.
Model Variants:
The R1100 was produced in various configurations: the touring-oriented R1100RT, the sportier R1100RS, the adventure-focused R1100GS, and the standard R1100R roadster.
Production Years:
Approximately 1993-2001 (model dependent).
Brand Reputation:
BMW motorcycles are consistently recognized for their build quality, engineering innovation, and rider comfort, particularly in the touring and adventure segments.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, the boxer engine is renowned for its longevity.
Manual Quality Standard:
Professional Workshop Standard (PWS), comparable to official dealer documentation.
