Motorcycle Segment:
Sport Touring / Roadster
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, enthusiasts looking for in-depth technical knowledge.
Key Competitors 1997:
Honda VFR750F, Yamaha FZR600R, Kawasaki ZX-6R, Suzuki Bandit 600/1200.
Unique Selling Proposition Vehicle:
Torquey boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, robust build quality, comfortable ergonomics for touring.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their motorcycle efficiently, saving on labor costs and increasing understanding of the machine.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, assembly of engine components (pistons, rings, cylinders, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing). Specifics on torque values and clearances.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Bing or similar) tuning, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel pump operation, fuel lines, filters. Injection system if applicable (less likely for this specific model year and variant).
Ignition System:
Spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, coil and ignition module testing and replacement.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, maintenance, and adjustment; gearbox inspection, repair, and fluid changes; shaft drive system maintenance and inspection.
Brake System:
Hydraulic brake system maintenance (fluid replacement, bleeding), caliper inspection and service, master cylinder overhaul, rotor and pad replacement, ABS system (if equipped) troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (lights, horn, starter, alternator, battery), troubleshooting electrical faults, fuse box layout, battery maintenance.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorber maintenance and adjustment, steering head bearing inspection and adjustment, wheel bearing service.
Bodywork Chassis:
Frame inspection, fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, fuel tank removal and installation, general body component repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though R850R is shaft-driven), brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical gremlins, braking complaints, and handling issues.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component repair/replacement.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearance specifications, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, timing marks, ignition timing data.
Special Tools:
Identification of BMW-specific or recommended tools required for certain procedures (e.g., flywheel holding tools, seal drivers, torque wrenches).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Displacement:
848 cc (850 cc designation)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (Typical)
Valve Train:
Overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder, 2 valves per cylinder
Power Output:
Approximately 65 hp @ 7000 rpm (Manufacturer's claim for R850R)
Torque Output:
Approximately 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 4750 rpm (Manufacturer's claim for R850R)
Fuel Delivery:
Twin Carburetors (likely Bing 32mm or similar) or Fuel Injection (less common for base R850R, more for R1100 series).
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 23 liters (6.1 US gallons)
Length:
Approximately 2200 mm (86.6 in)
Width:
Approximately 850 mm (33.5 in)
Height:
Approximately 1350 mm (53.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 215 kg (474 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 230 kg (507 lbs) (Estimate with fluids)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Motorcycle Specification)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (specific BMW recommendation may vary, consult original owner's manual if available).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.8 liters (0.85 US quarts)
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W (Specific weight may vary; manual will detail correct type)
Common Wear Items:
Starter motor brushes, clutch plates (depending on riding style), wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with wiring harness integrity, particularly around the steering head.
Engine Performance:
Carburetor synchronization can be critical for smooth running; potential for oil leaks from seals over time.
Bmw Motorcycle History:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1920s, known for engineering excellence, reliability, and boxer-twin engines.
R850R Development:
The R850R was introduced as a more accessible and lighter alternative to the popular R1100 series, offering similar boxer-twin character with slightly reduced performance, making it attractive for riders seeking comfort and manageability.
Production Period:
The R850R was produced from 1995 to 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad's primary manufacturing facility)
