🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1100RS

Model Code:

R1100RS

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Sport touring motorcycle, premium segment

Key Competitors:

Honda ST1100, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJR1300 (later models), Moto Guzzi California.

Model Highlights:

Shaft drive, boxer-twin engine, integral ABS, Telelever front suspension, aerodynamic fairing, comfortable seating for two, versatile for touring and sport riding.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Years Covered:

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual (WSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque specifications for cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, oil pump, timing chain.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel tank, lines, and troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition control module, troubleshooting ignition faults.

Cooling System:

Oil cooler system, oil circulation, oil filter replacement, troubleshooting oil pressure issues.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch assembly (dry single-plate), gearbox (5-speed), driveshaft, final drive (Paralever), troubleshooting clutch and gearbox issues, lubrication requirements.

Brakes:

Front and rear braking systems (BMW Integral ABS), brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS modulator, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front Telelever suspension, rear Monolever (Paralever) suspension, fork seals, shock absorber replacement, steering head bearings, wheel alignment, tire wear diagnosis.

Electrical System:

Battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting system (headlights, taillights, indicators), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all electrical components, instrument cluster diagnostics.

Chassis Bodywork:

Frame, fairing removal and installation, body panel replacement, seat, luggage systems, stands, fairing components, mounting points.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed instructions for routine maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement, brake fluid changes, drive shaft lubrication, valve clearance checks.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, electrical circuit diagnosis, engine performance issues, braking system anomalies.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly for virtually all parts of the motorcycle.

Technical Specifications:

Comprehensive torque specifications for all fasteners, engine component clearances, fluid capacities, tire pressure recommendations, electrical system voltages.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnostics. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (likely searchable text)

Print Quality Digital:

High resolution, clear diagrams, legible text for easy printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, air-cooled, flat-twin (boxer) engine

Displacement:

1085 cc (1.1 L)

Bore X Stroke:

99 mm x 70.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.3:1

Valve Train:

Four valves per cylinder, actuated by pushrods and rocker arms (OHV)

Horsepower:

90 hp (67 kW) @ 7250 rpm

Torque:

95 Nm (70 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 electronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 recommended for general use. Refer to manual for seasonal variations.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, hydraulic actuation

Final Drive:

Shaft drive with Paralever single-sided swingarm

Transmission Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 80W-90

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) over fairing

Height:

Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in) to top of windshield

Dry Weight:

Approx. 247 kg (545 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gallons), including 4-liter reserve

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS System:

BMW Integral ABS (available as option on some models, standard on later ones). Two-channel, partial integral system.

Braking System Type:

Hydraulic disc brakes, front dual discs, rear single disc with ABS capability.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, LED taillight.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional radio/cassette player or CD player available on some models, typically integrated into the fairing.

ABS:

BMW Integral ABS (optional or standard depending on year/market), improving braking control and safety.

Diagnostic Port:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) port for connection to BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1/DIS) for fault code reading and system checks.

Heated Grips:

Often equipped as standard or optional feature for rider comfort.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact intervals.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years or as recommended by BMW.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations).

Transmission Oil Specification:

Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 80W-90

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4, low viscosity for ABS systems

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, rear shock absorber degradation, starter motor brushes, alternator drive belt, wheel bearings, pivot bearings (Paralever and Telelever).

Electrical Concerns:

Corrosion on connectors, ABS sensor faults, regulator/rectifier issues (less common than on earlier airheads).

Engine Performance Issues:

Potential for surging at low RPM due to fueling or air leaks, rough idle, misfires.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:

BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, quality, and engineering excellence since the early 20th century.

R Series Development:

The R1100RS is part of BMW's long-standing R-series boxer twin tradition. It evolved from earlier models like the R100RS, incorporating new technologies such as fuel injection, catalytic converter (on some models), and the advanced Telelever front suspension.

Production Years:

1993-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin Spandau, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Reviews:

Consistently praised for its touring capability, comfort, stability, and robust engineering. Often cited as a benchmark in the sport-touring category of its era.

Reliability Reputation:

Generally considered a reliable motorcycle with proper maintenance. BMW boxer twins are known for their longevity.