Vehicle Class:
Motorcycle (Air-cooled Boxer Twin)
Target Audience:
BMW R80 owners and enthusiasts requiring in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data and repair procedures for one of BMW's iconic boxer-engined motorcycles, enabling cost-effective ownership and maintenance.
Manual Focus:
Detailed, practical guidance for maintaining and repairing the 1978 BMW R80.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, carburetor service, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specifics)
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, shifting mechanism, clutch service, final drive maintenance
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, fork overhaul, shock absorber service, wheel bearing replacement, steering head bearing adjustment
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system service (master cylinder, calipers, brake lines), rear drum brake maintenance
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition coil, starter motor, battery charging system, instrument cluster troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable), carburetor tuning and rebuilding (e.g., Bing carburetors)
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, fender repairs, minor bodywork guidance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, valve adjustments, brake fluid changes
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: From basic owner maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Digital Format:
PDF, optimized for searchability and digital viewing.
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Physical Format Note:
As this is a digital product, binding type is not applicable; however, it is structured for easy navigation.
Digital Paper Simulation:
Content presented in a clear, page-like format simulating high-quality manual paper.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally-opposed boxer twin
Displacement:
797.5 cc (798 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.5 mm x 74.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.2:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Cylinder Head Design:
Overhead valves (OHV), pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approximately 50 HP (37 kW) at 6200 RPM (typical)
Torque:
Approximately 58 Nm (43 lb-ft) at 4500 RPM (typical)
Carburetors:
2 x Bing 32mm constant velocity carburetors (typical)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum octane rating as specified in manual, typically 91 RON)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle-specific oil (refer to manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 liters (2.6 US quarts) with filter change
Ignition Type:
Battery and Coil, Electronic Ignition (often aftermarket upgrade, but manual may cover breaker points for stock models)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1460 mm (57.5 inches)
Seat Height:
Approximately 820 mm (32.3 inches)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 195 kg (430 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
As specified by manufacturer, typically around 370 kg (816 lbs)
Crash Safety Note:
Motorcycle safety is primarily rider-dependent; manual focuses on mechanical safety and reliability.
Braking System:
Front: Single disc brake with hydraulic actuation. Rear: Drum brake with mechanical actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame, designed for stability and durability.
Infotainment System:
Basic analogue instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, and indicator lights. No advanced infotainment features.
Driver Assistance Features:
None. Focus is on rider control and mechanical operation.
Connectivity Options:
None.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval).
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle oil (check manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid (ensure compatibility with seals)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, output shaft splines, swingarm pivot bearings, steering head bearings, exhaust system corrosion.
Engine Considerations:
Potential for oil leaks from engine seals and gaskets, carburetor synchronization issues, and wear in the valve train over high mileage.
Electrical Considerations:
Aging wiring insulation, failing rectifier/regulator units, and connection point corrosion are common.
Manufacturer Origin:
Germany
Series Introduction:
The R80 was part of BMW's long-standing tradition of boxer-twin motorcycles, evolving from earlier models like the R75/5 and R90/6.
R80 Variants:
The R80 series included models such as the R80/7, R80 G/S (off-road), R80ST, and the R80RT (touring), with the 1978 model likely referring to the R80/7 or a similar standard variant.
Production Period:
The R80 series was produced from the late 1970s through the 1980s.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau plant)
Model Recognition:
The R80 series is widely recognized for its reliability, durability, and the distinct character of BMW's boxer engine. Often lauded for its touring capabilities and ease of maintenance for its era.
Owner Satisfaction:
Consistently high owner satisfaction ratings for longevity and build quality, though often requiring specific maintenance knowledge.
Historical Certifications:
Compliant with relevant European motorcycle safety and emissions standards of the period.
