Positioning:
The BMW K100 series represented BMW's venture into modern, liquid-cooled, multi-cylinder motorcycles, offering a sophisticated and refined touring and sport-touring experience. It was positioned as a premium motorcycle for discerning riders.
Competitors:
Competed against other large-displacement touring and sport-touring motorcycles of the era, such as those from Honda (e.g., GL series, CBX), Yamaha (e.g., FJ series), and Kawasaki (e.g., Z series).
Engine Layout:
Unique transverse inline-four engine with crankshaft on the right, cylinders canted forward for a lower center of gravity.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive via a single-sided swingarm, contributing to a clean aesthetic and low maintenance.
Brakes:
Powerful dual front disc brakes and single rear disc, often featuring Brembo calipers. ABS was an option on later models.
Build Quality:
Renowned BMW build quality with extensive use of stainless steel for the exhaust and rust-resistant aluminum for the fuel tank (though low points can corrode).
Ergonomics And Comfort:
Varied by model, from the naked K100 to the fully faired K100LT, offering excellent wind protection and comfortable seating for long-distance riding.
Applicable Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Estimated Page Count:
Highly Comprehensive (Specific number not provided in product description, typically 500+ pages for a full FSM)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed, based on product listing and target market)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Accessibility:
Instant download provides immediate access for technicians or owners needing quick repair information.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of the 987cc four-cylinder boxer engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic, depending on year/model), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank maintenance and inspection.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shift mechanism, final drive (shaft drive).
Brakes:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake, hydraulic system, caliper maintenance, pad replacement, bleeding procedure, ABS system diagnosis and repair (where applicable).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), starter motor, battery maintenance, lighting, accessories, diagnostics of electrical components.
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork service (Showa/Fichtel & Sachs), rear shock absorber maintenance, swingarm inspection, Paralever rear suspension system (later models), steering head bearing service.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, side covers, fenders, handlebars.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid changes, valve adjustments, and other routine maintenance tasks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code interpretation (if applicable to ECU), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major motorcycle systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise technical data, torque specifications, clearances, measurements, and tolerances required for accurate assembly and repair.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine rebuilding and electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and rectifying faults across all vehicle systems.
Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
74 mm x 58 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.2:1 (Typical, may vary slightly by model year)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 90 hp (67 kW) @ 8,000 rpm (Typical, depending on model/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (Typical)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (5.5 US gal)
Length:
Varies by model (e.g., K100 ~2220 mm, K100RS ~2170 mm)
Width:
Varies by model (e.g., K100 ~850 mm, K100RS ~750 mm)
Height:
Varies by model (e.g., K100 ~1250 mm, K100RS ~1230 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 215-230 kg (depending on model)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 235-250 kg (depending on model)
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are typically not standardized like automotive crash tests).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Available as an option on later model years (ABS).
Braking System:
Dual hydraulic disc brakes front, single hydraulic disc brake rear.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (typical for era), integrated turn signals.
Infotainment Systems:
Basic instrumentation with speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights. No advanced infotainment systems typical of modern motorcycles.
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on later models, a significant technological advancement for its time.
Accessory Plug:
Features a standard Hella accessory plug for powering auxiliary devices like GPS or heated gear.
Alternator Capacity:
High capacity 460 watt alternator, providing ample power for accessories and heated grips.
Signal Lights:
Self-canceling turn signals.
Headlight Adjustment:
Adjustable headlight for optimal beam pattern.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact intervals and oil type.
Valve Adjustment:
Recommended at intervals of 10,000 - 20,000 km. Manual details the procedure and clearances.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years. Manual specifies fluid type (DOT 4).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW recommends a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil, typically 10W-40 or 20W-50, meeting API SG/SH or JASO MA specifications. Manual provides precise grades.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters with filter change. Manual confirms exact capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual specifies BMW-approved coolant.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, SAE 90. Manual confirms specific grade and capacity.
Fuel Tank Corrosion:
The aluminum fuel tanks are prone to corrosion at the lower points due to moisture accumulation. Regular inspection and potential sealing are recommended. Manual will guide on inspection.
Fuel Line Cracking:
Older fuel lines can become brittle and crack. Replacement with modern fuel-resistant lines is advised. Manual will detail fuel system routing.
Brake Caliper Seals:
Seals in Brembo calipers can degrade over time, leading to sticky pistons. Regular cleaning and seal replacement are maintenance items. Manual covers caliper service.
Stator Failure:
While the K100 has a robust 460W alternator, stator or regulator failures can occur and are detailed in the manual's electrical troubleshooting section.
Heritage:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence, reliability, and innovative technology.
K Series Introduction:
The K100 was a significant departure for BMW, marking their entry into the modern multi-cylinder sportbike and touring segment, challenging established Japanese manufacturers.
Paralever Introduction:
The Paralever rear suspension system, introduced on the K1 and later adapted to some K100 models (and other K-series), improved handling and ride comfort by reducing drivetrain-related suspension forces.
Production Years:
1983 - 1992
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
