🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R 850 GS / R 850 R

Engine Type Identifier:

Boxer Twin

Chassis Codes:

R22 / R24 (typical BMW internal designations, specific year/model variants may exist)

👋 Introduction

Target User:

BMW motorcycle technicians, independent repair shops, and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts.

Value Proposition:

Provides the same authoritative, vehicle-specific information used by authorized BMW dealerships.

Differentiation:

Unlike generic repair guides, this manual is tailored to the R850 GS and R850 R models, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific, ensuring all procedures and specifications are correct for the R850 GS/R.

Completeness:

Covers all aspects of maintenance, repair, and diagnostics from A-Z.

Dealer Equivalence:

Authorized dealership-level technical information, ensuring professional repair quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive A-Z repair and maintenance for all models and repairs.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 500+ pages (typical for full workshop manuals covering multiple models/variants)

Type:

Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English (assumed based on typical availability for global markets, actual may vary)

Format:

Digital (PDF implied by common sales practices for such manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and repair, emissions control.

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (top-end, bottom-end, timing), clutch, transmission (gearbox, drive shaft), final drive.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front forks (BMW Telelever or conventional), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system.

Braking System:

Hydraulic brake system (front and rear), ABS (if equipped), brake caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, fault finding for all electrical components.

Bodywork And Accessories:

Fairings, seats, fuel tank, luggage systems, mounting hardware, body panel repair and removal.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance adjustment, final drive oil service.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system fault tracing.

Engine Repair:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly; piston ring replacement, cylinder head service, gasket replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Gearbox disassembly, clutch replacement, shaft inspection and replacement, final drive overhaul.

Suspension And Steering Overhaul:

Fork seal replacement, damper service, steering head bearing replacement, shock absorber adjustment/replacement.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter, ignition coil, fuel pump, sensors, ECU replacement and testing.

Brake System Overhaul:

Brake pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinder rebuild, ABS module testing/replacement.

Depth:

Full workshop level, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capability:

Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and explanations for electrical and mechanical issues, potentially referencing BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, ISTA).

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive torque specifications for all fasteners, critical for safety and component longevity.

Special Tools:

Details required BMW special tools for specific procedures, aiding in accurate and safe repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) - typically searchable and printable.

Resolution And Clarity:

High-resolution diagrams and text for clear readability and accurate interpretation of procedures.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Configuration:

Two-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) four-stroke engine.

Displacement:

848 cc (for R850 variants)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical for R850 engine family)

Power Delivery:

Known for smooth, linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 70-77 HP (depending on specific model year and tuning)

Torque Range:

Approximately 77-80 Nm (57-59 lb-ft) at specific RPMs.

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Motronic engine management system.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher, consult manual for precise specification).

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled (primarily), with oil cooling assistance.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox (depending on model year and variant).

Automatic Transmission:

Not available for these models.

Drive System:

Shaft drive (final drive) to the rear wheel.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch (operated hydraulically).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by model and year, typically around 1430-1450 mm (56.3-57.1 inches).

Seat Height:

Varies, generally lower than R1100/R1150 models, around 770-800 mm (30.3-31.5 inches) for R850R, higher for R850GS.

Dry Weight:

Approximately 200-220 kg (441-485 lbs) depending on model and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult manual for specific GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings differ from automotive, focus on component integrity and design safety).

ABS Availability:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on many models.

Traction Control:

Typically not equipped on these R850 models, focus on rider skill and ABS for control.

Lighting System:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight (on later models), turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meter, clock, and indicator lights.

Audio System:

Not typically equipped with an integrated audio system from the factory.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an optional feature for enhanced safety.

Diagnostic Port:

Diagnostic port for reading fault codes and system diagnostics, potentially requiring BMW-specific tools or adapters.

🔧 Maintenance

Major Service:

Typically every 10,000-12,000 km (6,000-7,500 miles) or annually, including valve checks, spark plug replacement, etc.

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-6,000 km (3,000-3,750 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-40 or 15W-50 semi-synthetic or synthetic motorcycle oil, API SG or higher. Consult manual for specific BMW recommendations and viscosity charts based on temperature.

Transmission Oil:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil.

Final Drive Oil:

SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (low moisture absorption type).

Fuel Level Sender:

Occasional issues with the fuel level sender unit in the fuel tank.

Alternator Brushes:

Wear on alternator brushes can occur over high mileage, requiring replacement.

ABS Sensor Rings:

Accumulation of dirt or debris on ABS sensor rings can lead to intermittent ABS warnings.

Paralever Splines:

Lubrication of the paralever spline can be crucial to prevent wear and seizing.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorrad Legacy:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing robust, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for their Boxer engine and touring capabilities.

R850 Series Introduction:

The R850 series was introduced as a more accessible and user-friendly option compared to the larger displacement Boxer models (like the R1100/R1150 series), offering a balance of performance and manageable power.

Gs Variant Focus:

The R850GS variant offered a lighter, more agile package for adventure touring and light off-road use, featuring longer travel suspension and a higher riding position.

R Variant Focus:

The R850R variant was the roadster version, emphasizing comfortable street riding, touring, and general usability.

Production Years:

Mid-1990s to early 2000s (e.g., roughly 1996-2006, specific start/end dates vary by market and model variant).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (BMW Motorrad factories)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

BMW Boxer twins are consistently recognized for their durability, reliability, and enduring design.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally high consumer satisfaction due to BMW's engineering and build quality.

Emissions Standards:

Designed to meet applicable emissions standards for their respective production years.