🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1150GS

Year:

1996

Market Segment:

Adventure Touring Motorcycle

Engine Configuration:

Flat-twin (Boxer) engine

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW R1150GS is a highly regarded adventure touring motorcycle, known for its robust construction, long-distance comfort, and off-road capability. This manual positions itself as an indispensable tool for maintaining and repairing this iconic machine.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other large-displacement adventure bikes such as the Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, and Ducati Multistrada. The R1150GS stood out with its boxer engine character and advanced (for its time) Telelever and Paralever suspension systems.

Key Features:

The R1150GS is renowned for its torque-rich Boxer engine, shaft drive, comfortable riding ergonomics for long distances, and the unique BMW Telelever front suspension, which provides excellent damping and stability.

Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, potentially saving significant costs and ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the motorcycle.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the BMW R1150GS 1996 model

Page Count:

Detailed page count not specified, but described as 'adequate data' for professional technicians.

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English (Assumed based on typical market availability for this model and manual description)

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, fuel injection system, ignition system, lubrication system.

Transmission:

Gearbox removal, inspection, repair, clutch system, final drive (bevel gear).

Chassis And Suspension:

Front fork (Telelever) overhaul, rear shock absorber (Paralever) maintenance, frame inspection, wheel bearings, steering head bearings.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, ABS (if equipped), rotor and pad replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery maintenance, lighting, instrumentation, diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, electronic fuel injection (EFI) control unit diagnostics.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe inspection, muffler maintenance, catalytic converter (if applicable).

Bodywork And Trim:

Fairing removal and installation, seat, luggage systems, fairing panels.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, brake adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common fault finding, solutions for performance issues, electrical problems, starting difficulties.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and major repairs, including engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, suspension repairs.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, valve adjustments, component measurements.

Depth:

Professional level, suitable for experienced technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed disassembly, assembly, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High resolution, designed for clear printing of diagrams, text, and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (Boxer) engine

Displacement:

1130 cc (1.13 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

101 mm x 70.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valve Train:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approx. 85 hp (63 kW) @ 6,750 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 73 lb-ft (99 Nm) @ 5,250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with 2 x 40mm throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (91 AKI)

Ignition:

Digital electronic ignition

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios available within the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.46, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.88, 4th: 1.50, 5th: 1.25)

Gearbox Oil Type:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 (or equivalent) - capacity typically around 1.0-1.2 liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 915 mm (36.0 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1,410 mm (55.5 in) at seat

Dry Weight:

Approx. 234 kg (516 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 475 kg (1047 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 Liters (6.6 US gallons), including 4 Liters reserve

Front Tire Size:

90/90-21 54V

Rear Tire Size:

130/80 R17 65W

Front Wheel:

2.50 x 21

Rear Wheel:

4.00 x 17

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycle safety is primarily assessed through design and component integrity. BMW motorcycles are generally built to high safety standards.

ABS:

Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II (Antilock Braking System) available on some models.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight and turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame offering high rigidity and impact resistance.

Ergonomics:

Designed for rider comfort and control during long-distance travel and varied terrain.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

No integrated infotainment system in the modern sense. Relies on aftermarket solutions for GPS and audio.

Driver Assistance:

Optional ABS II for enhanced braking control.

Connectivity:

N/A (Pre-smartphone era). No built-in Bluetooth or USB ports as standard.

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meters, clock, ambient temperature, gear indicator (on some models).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. The manual will provide precise intervals.

Valve Check Interval:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles). The manual will detail adjustment procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific mileage, but generally around 20,000-40,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG/SH or higher (check manual for precise specification, often synthetic blend or full synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change. Manual will confirm.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid

Coolant Type:

BMW specifies a glycol-based coolant (typically ethylene glycol with corrosion inhibitors) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio for the oil cooler circuit if applicable, and for fork oil.

Common Issues:

Potential for clutch slave cylinder leaks, alternator output issues, throttle body synchronization needs, ABS sensor failures (on equipped models), and paralever pivot bearing wear.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

Early models could experience fuel pump issues; regular use is often recommended to prevent this.

Hex Head Bolt Recall:

Some early R1150GS models were subject to recalls related to hex head bolts, particularly around the exhaust.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW Motorrad boasts a long and illustrious history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to 1923. Known for engineering excellence, durability, and innovation in touring and sport-touring segments.

Evolution:

The R1150GS is the successor to the highly successful R1100GS. It featured an enlarged engine, improved torque, higher horsepower, and minor chassis refinements. It was part of the 'GS' lineage that redefined the adventure touring category.

Production Years:

The R1150GS range was produced from 1999 to 2005, with the R1150GS Adventure variant introduced later. The 1996 designation in the product name might be slightly inaccurate for the R1150GS model itself, which debuted later; however, it could refer to manuals that also cover earlier R-series models that formed the basis of the GS line.

Significance:

The R1150GS cemented BMW's dominance in the adventure touring market, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and reliability that appealed to a wide range of riders.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The R1150GS consistently received high praise from motorcycle publications for its versatility, comfort, and ruggedness, often winning 'Adventure Bike of the Year' type awards in its segment during its production run.