🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850R / R850GS

Year:

1994

Engine Code:

850cc Boxer Twin

Chassis Code:

R850R / R850GS

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW R850R and R850GS were positioned as accessible, reliable, and versatile touring and all-road motorcycles, offering BMW's signature boxer engine reliability and build quality in a slightly more manageable displacement than their larger R1100 counterparts.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against models like the Moto Guzzi California, Honda ST1100 (though slightly larger displacement), and other middleweight European and Japanese touring/sport-touring motorcycles. Key differentiators included the boxer engine's smooth power delivery, shaft drive, and robust construction.

Key Features:

Characterized by its air-cooled, two-valve per cylinder boxer engine, telescopic front forks (R850R) or the Telelever front suspension system (R850GS), monolever rear suspension with shaft drive, and robust build quality synonymous with BMW motorcycles.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models, engines, trims, and transmissions for the 1994 BMW R850R and R850GS.

Page Count:

Estimated 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission, Drive Shaft, Final Drive, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear ABS/Non-ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams), Lighting, Instruments, Frame, Bodywork, Wheels, Tires, Tools, Troubleshooting & Diagnostics.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Engine Overhaul & Rebuild, Fuel Injection System Servicing, Ignition Timing, Clutch Adjustment & Replacement, Gearbox Overhaul, Drive Shaft Inspection & Maintenance, Suspension Fork & Shock Absorber Servicing, Brake System Bleeding & Component Replacement, Electrical System Diagnostics & Repair, Lighting System Checks, Instrument Cluster Functionality, Body Panel Removal & Installation, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Tire Mounting & Balancing, Diagnostic Codes & Fault Finding.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for digital viewing and printing. Clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder horizontally opposed (boxer) engine.

Displacement:

848 cc

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1

Valve Train:

OHV, 2 valves per cylinder

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Lubrication System:

Wet sump

Horsepower:

Approximately 70-75 hp @ 6750 rpm (varied slightly by model/market).

Torque:

Approximately 70-75 Nm (51-55 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON (87 AKI).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 20-26 Liters (5.3-6.9 US Gallons), depending on specific model variant.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive.

Gear Ratios:

Detailed in the manual, typically close-ratio for versatile performance.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific GL specification, typically a high-quality gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by model (R850R vs R850GS), detailed in manual.

Width:

Varies by model (R850R vs R850GS), detailed in manual.

Height:

Varies by model (R850R vs R850GS), detailed in manual.

Dry Weight:

Approx. 210-230 kg (463-507 lbs) depending on specific model variant.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Detailed in manual, typically around 450 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No standardized crash test ratings like cars; safety dependent on rider skill and adherence to maintenance.

Active Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models; responsive braking system.

Passive Features:

Sturdy frame construction, effective lighting, rider ergonomics designed for stability.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic by modern standards. Typically features analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, and essential warning lights. Some models may have provision for accessory radios or GPS units.

Driver Assistance:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was a significant safety technology for its time. No other electronic rider aids common on modern motorcycles.

Connectivity:

None inherent to the motorcycle's original design.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Recommended intervals: Oil change every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles), Valve adjustment every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles), Full service typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles). Specifics detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil, viscosity grade 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (refer to manual for exact specifications and temperature ranges). API SG or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0-3.5 Liters (3.2-3.7 US Quarts) with filter change. Check manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 hydraulic brake fluid (depending on ABS system compatibility and manual recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Gear oil, typically SAE 80W-90 GL-5 or equivalent. Check manual for exact specification and capacity.

Final Drive Oil Type:

Gear oil, typically SAE 80W-90 GL-5 or equivalent. Check manual for exact specification and capacity.

Common Issues:

Potential for wear on the spline lubrication of the driveshaft and final drive, ignition coil failure, fuel injector issues, and clutch slave cylinder leaks. Refer to manual for troubleshooting these and other common problems.

Maintenance Tips:

Regular cleaning and lubrication of the driveshaft splines is critical. Checking and topping up the gearbox oil is essential. Ensuring the fuel injection system is clean and properly adjusted can prevent many running issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW Motorrad, established in 1923, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, innovation, and producing durable, reliable motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer engine and shaft drive configurations.

Model Evolution:

The R850 series was introduced in the mid-1990s as a more accessible alternative to the larger R100/R1100 models. It inherited the boxer engine layout and shared many components with its larger siblings, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and utility. The R850R is the standard roadster, while the R850GS is the adventure-touring variant with higher ground clearance and often more suspension travel.

Production Years:

Approx. 1994-2000 for the R850R and R850GS. The R850RT (touring) also existed.

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1994 R850R/GS are not widely documented as major accolades, BMW motorcycles of this era consistently received praise for their engineering, durability, and touring comfort from motorcycle publications and rider communities.

Ratings:

Rider reviews and magazine comparisons often highlighted their reliability, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding, and the distinctive character of the boxer engine.

Certifications:

Compliant with relevant European emission and safety standards for motorcycles of the period.