Segment:
Adventure Touring Motorcycle
Reputation:
Renowned for durability, off-road capability, and touring comfort
Competitors:
Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, Yamaha Super Tenere
Engine Type:
Air-cooled Boxer Twin
Drive System:
Shaft Drive
Suspension Front:
BMW Telelever (typical for R1150GS)
Fueling:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Manual Utility:
Essential for owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, maximizing longevity and performance.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, component replacement
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, maintenance, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Final drive, driveshaft, clutch system
Suspension:
Front forks (BMW Telelever/Duolever variants), rear shock absorber, linkage
Brakes:
Brake system overhaul, fluid replacement, ABS (if equipped), pad/rotor replacement
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, charging system, starter, electronic control units (ECU)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body
Cooling System:
Oil cooling system (air-cooled boxer with oil cooler)
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable)
Bodywork:
Fairing removal/installation, body panel repair, seat
Chassis:
Frame, subframe, steering head
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, valve adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault identification, symptom-based problem solving
Repair:
Component replacement, reassembly, calibration, performance tuning
Rebuilding:
Engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, carburetor rebuild (if applicable to specific models within range)
Electrical Repair:
Wiring repairs, component testing, sensor diagnosis
Installation:
Accessory installation guidance, component upgrades
Depth:
Comprehensive (From basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds)
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and data interpretation
Type:
Step-by-step diagrams and detailed illustrations
Electrical Diagrams:
Full electrical schematics for all systems
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke boxer twin-cylinder engine
Displacement:
1130 cc (1130 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm (typical)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 or 10.0:1 (depending on specific model variant)
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 85-95 hp (depending on variant and market regulations)
Torque:
Approx. 95-105 Nm (depending on variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating 91 RON minimum
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (with filter change)
Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle-specific, API SG or higher
Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Features:
Some models may feature different gear ratios or electronic aids
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with universal joint
Oil Specification:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 gear oil
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 liter
Crash Test Information:
Motorcycles typically do not undergo standardized crash testing like cars. Focus is on rider protection.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models
Traction Control:
Not typically equipped on models within this year range
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight (depending on variant)
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control during long-distance travel and off-road excursions
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), Air filter inspected every 10,000 km, replaced as needed or annually.
Valve Adjustment:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant:
Not applicable (Air-cooled engine with oil cooler)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, alternator output issues, fuel pump reliability, ABS sensor failures, regulator/rectifier failures
Maintenance Tips:
Regular lubrication of the driveshaft splines is critical. Proper torque settings are essential for engine components.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Motorcycle Division:
BMW Motorrad, established in 1923
Gs Lineage:
The 'GS' designation stands for 'Gelände/Straße' (Off-road/Street), a series known for its versatility.
R1150Gs Introduction:
Evolved from the R1100GS, featuring a larger displacement engine for increased power and torque.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Production Years:
The R1150GS model line generally ran from 1999 to 2005, with the specified manual covering the earlier years leading up to its official release or early variants.
Market Reception:
Highly regarded in the adventure touring segment for its capability and durability. Often lauded by motorcycle publications for its all-around performance.
Reliability:
Generally good, but specific components like the regulator/rectifier and fuel pump can be prone to failure if not maintained.
Manual Quality:
Professional workshop standard, designed for trained technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
