Segment:
Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners and independent motorcycle repair shops focusing on BMW motorcycles.
Comparable Models:
Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Super Tenere, Kawasaki KLR650 (though R1150GS is generally positioned higher).
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Versatility for both on-road touring and off-road capability, with robust engineering characteristic of BMW.
Engine Coverage:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system.
Drivetrain Coverage:
Clutch, gearbox (5-speed), final drive, driveshaft, universal joint.
Chassis Coverage:
Frame, suspension (front Telelever, rear Paralever), steering, wheels, braking system (ABS optional).
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, starting and charging systems, ignition, ECU.
Bodywork Coverage:
Fairing, fuel tank, seat, fenders, luggage system components.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Management:
BMW Motoronic 2.4.1 fuel injection and ignition system, sensors (throttle position, lambda, air temperature), actuators, diagnostics.
Suspension Systems:
Detailed diagrams and service procedures for the BMW Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension system, including shock absorber and fork seal replacement.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake system inspection, pad replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system (optional) diagnostics and service.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump operation, fuel filter replacement, injector cleaning and testing, fuel tank removal and installation.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter inspection, muffler removal and installation, lambda sensor replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug inspection and replacement, valve clearance adjustment, brake fluid flush, final drive oil change.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues like starting problems, poor performance, and electrical faults.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal and installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft inspection, timing chain replacement.
Transmission Service:
Gearbox oil replacement, clutch inspection and replacement, driveshaft and universal joint maintenance.
Electrical System Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to complex engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer-twin engine.
Displacement:
1130 cc (1130 cmยณ)
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Valve Train:
Two valves per cylinder, operated by pushrods and rocker arms.
Horsepower:
85 hp (63 kW) at 6,250 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic 2.4.1 digital engine management system with sequential fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2.
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher motorcycle-specific oil.
Oil Capacity:
3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox.
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated.
Final Drive:
Shaft drive via bevel gear and universal joint.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each of the 5 speeds are detailed in the manual.
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5 gear oil for the final drive housing.
Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) across handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in) to handlebars
Dry Weight:
Approx. 231 kg (509 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 480 kg (1058 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 liters (5.3 US gallons), including 3 liters reserve.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available.
Braking System:
Dual front discs with 4-piston calipers, single rear disc with 2-piston caliper. ABS enhances control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals.
Frame Design:
Tubular steel frame providing structural integrity and rider protection.
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meters, clock, gear indicator, and basic warning lights. Optional heated grips.
ABS System:
Optional BMW Integral ABS with independent front and rear wheel control.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (or BMW's proprietary equivalent) diagnostic port for reading fault codes.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Valve Adjustment:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Final Drive Oil:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher.
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5.
Common Problems:
Hall sensor failure (leading to starting issues), clutch slave cylinder leaks, alternator bearing wear, ABS modulator issues (if equipped), fuel pump relay issues.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), known for its engineering prowess in both automotive and motorcycle sectors.
Gs Lineage:
The GS (Gelรคnde/Straรe - off-road/road) line is BMW's flagship adventure touring series, with roots tracing back to the R80G/S.
R1150Gs Introduction:
The R1150GS replaced the R1100GS, offering increased engine displacement, torque, and chassis refinements.
Production Years:
The R1150GS model range was produced from 1999 to 2004, with the 1997 date likely referring to a specific pre-production or early model year in documentation context, or potentially a typo for the 1999 launch year. However, this manual explicitly states 1997. The R1100GS preceded it and was available in 1997.
