🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R100

Year:

1992

Engine Code:

Type 247 (Airhead Boxer)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW R100 series, particularly the 1992 models, represents the pinnacle of BMW's air-cooled boxer twin motorcycle technology. It was positioned as a premium touring and sport-touring motorcycle, known for its robust build, reliable performance, and distinctive character.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other large-displacement touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (e.g., GL1500 Gold Wing), Kawasaki (e.g., GTR1000), and Yamaha (e.g., FJ1200) in its era. Its key differentiators were its shaft drive, boxer engine layout, and emphasis on rider feedback and handling.

Key Features:

Legendary air-cooled 'boxer' twin engine, Monolever rear suspension for low-maintenance shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding, robust construction, excellent build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 1992 BMW R100 series.

Page Count:

Estimated 300-400 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (Driveshaft), Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Monolever), Brakes (Disc Brakes), Electrical System (Ignition, Charging, Lighting), Fuel System (Carburetors), Frame and Bodywork, Wheels and Tires, Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Procedures.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Engine Overhaul (piston rings, valve adjustments, cylinder head removal), Carburetor Rebuilding and Synchronization, Transmission Servicing, Driveshaft U-joint Inspection and Replacement, Brake System Bleeding and Pad Replacement, Electrical System Troubleshooting (wiring diagrams, component testing), Suspension Adjustments and Overhaul, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Tire Mounting and Balancing, Frame Inspection.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and component-level repair instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, suitable for digital viewing and printing of individual pages. Text is likely searchable if OCR processed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)

Displacement:

980 cc (971 cc for R100RS/RT/S, 980 cc for R100GS)

Bore X Stroke:

94 mm x 70.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 to 9.5:1 (depending on model variant)

Valve Train:

Overhead valves (OHV), pushrod actuated, 2 valves per cylinder

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change

Horsepower:

Approx. 60-70 hp @ 7000 rpm (model dependent)

Torque:

Approx. 70-75 Nm (51-55 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (model dependent)

Fuel System:

Dual Bing Constant Velocity (CV) Carburetors (e.g., Bing 32/40/42)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, minimum 90 RON / 87 AKI

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch:

Single dry plate, diaphragm spring

Final Drive:

Shaft drive via bevel gear and universal joint

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.75 liters (0.79 US quarts) SAE 75W/90 API GL-5

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by model (e.g., R100GS ~2230 mm, R100RT ~2270 mm)

Width:

Varies by model (e.g., R100RT ~950 mm)

Height:

Varies by model (e.g., R100RT ~1420 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 200-230 kg (440-507 lbs) depending on model

Wet Weight:

Approx. 220-250 kg (485-551 lbs) depending on model

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 430-460 kg (948-1014 lbs) depending on model

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings as understood today were not prevalent in this era. Focus is on design integrity and rider control.)

Active Features:

Effective dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake (on most models), responsive handling, good chassis stability.

Passive Features:

Robust frame construction, rider-centric ergonomics contributing to control, durable componentry.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Focus on mechanical and functional systems; no integrated infotainment.)

Driver Assistance:

N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control were standard or widely available on this model year.)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (CDI or similar system from Bosch/Motorola)

Charging System:

Alternator with external voltage regulator (often a point of failure, upgrades available).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually. Refer to manual for specific conditions.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles).

Gearbox Oil Change:

Every 10,000-20,000 km (6,000-12,000 miles).

Final Drive Oil Change:

Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle-specific (API SG or higher, JASO MA recommended)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 15W or 20W (Specific viscosity may vary by model and preference)

Known Issues:

Oil leaks from pushrod tubes, exhaust flanges, and transmission output seal. Carburetor synchronization drift. Potential for worn clutch plates at higher mileage. Chronically leaking starter motor seal. Regulator/rectifier failures. R100GS specific: Monolever pivot bearing wear, subframe stress cracks near battery box.

Repair Notes:

Many common issues are addressed with readily available aftermarket parts and documented repair procedures within the manual. Proactive maintenance can mitigate many potential problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and the iconic 'boxer' engine. This heritage is deeply embedded in the R100 series.

Model Evolution:

The R100 lineage evolved from the earlier R90S and R100/7 models. The 1992 models represent the later iterations of the airhead boxer, including variants like the R100GS (dual-sport), R100RS (sport-touring), R100RT (touring), and R100R (naked roadster).

Production Years:

The R100 series was produced from the late 1970s through the mid-1990s. Specific R100 models covered by this manual are from the 1992 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently recognized by motorcycle enthusiasts and publications for its durability, versatility, and timeless design. Often cited as a benchmark for reliable long-distance travel.

Ratings:

Highly rated in period reviews for handling and comfort, particularly the RS and RT models. The GS is lauded for its off-road capability within the adventure touring segment.

Certifications:

N/A (As this is a service manual for a specific model year, it does not carry certifications itself, but documents compliance with original BMW specifications.)