Positioning:
The BMW R1100RT was positioned as a premium, comfortable, and technologically advanced sport-touring motorcycle, ideal for long-distance riding with a passenger and luggage.
Competitors:
Competed with other large-displacement sport-touring motorcycles such as the Honda ST1100 Pan European, Kawasaki GTR1000, and Yamaha FJ1200.
Features:
Characterized by its boxer twin engine, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear drive, Integral ABS, integrated fairing with adjustable windscreen, and comfortable ergonomics for rider and passenger.
Engine Mechanical:
Full coverage including disassembly, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting of the boxer twin engine.
Fuel System:
Detailed procedures for fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, and lines.
Ignition System:
Information on the electronic ignition system, spark plugs, coils, and timing.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Coverage of the 5-speed gearbox, clutch operation (dry single-plate or optional wet clutch on later models), driveshaft, and final drive (Paralever system).
Brakes:
Comprehensive details on the BMW Integral ABS system (Generation I), brake fluid flushing, caliper maintenance, disc replacement, and ABS module diagnostics.
Suspension:
Detailed procedures for the Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension, including fork seal replacement, shock absorber adjustment, and bearing maintenance.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the wiring harness, lighting, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, and instrument cluster.
Chassis Bodywork:
Information on frame components, fairings, seat, fuel tank, and all body panels, including removal and installation procedures.
Exhaust System:
Details on the exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if applicable), and muffler assembly.
Cooling System:
Information on the oil cooling system, oil filter, and oil changes.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, clutch adjustment, and valve clearance checks.
Engine Repair:
Detailed instructions for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft inspection, and camshaft timing.
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox disassembly and reassembly, clutch replacement, and final drive service.
Brake System Overhaul:
Brake pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinder rebuild, ABS system bleeding and diagnostics.
Suspension Rebuild:
Front fork oil and seal replacement, rear shock absorber service.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, and common issue solutions.
Fuel Injection Tuning:
Basic troubleshooting and adjustment procedures for the fuel injection system.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common performance issues, starting problems, and electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and ABS system specific troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine.
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-operated overhead valves (OHV).
Horsepower:
90 hp (67 kW) @ 7250 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 (API SG or higher) motorcycle specific oil recommended. Manual may specify BMW approved oils.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS (Generation I) - combined front and rear braking system with optional ABS functionality.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, taillight, and brake light.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with 4-piston calipers, single rear disc brake with 2-piston caliper, linked via Integral ABS.
Chassis Design:
Robust steel-tube frame providing excellent stability and rigidity.
Fairing Windscreen:
Full fairing with adjustable windscreen to provide rider protection from elements.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, gear indicator, and warning lights. Often equipped with an analog clock.
ABS System:
BMW Integral ABS (Generation I) provides combined braking and anti-lock functionality for enhanced safety.
Optional Features:
Some models could be optioned with heated grips, heated seats, cruise control (on later models), and an aftermarket radio/audio system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 motorcycle oil, API SG or higher.
Final Drive Oil:
Hypoid gear oil SAE 90 (check manual for specific BMW recommendation).
Common Problems:
Stator failure leading to charging system issues, embrittlement of fuel lines (especially on earlier models due to fuel composition), ABS sensor faults, and occasional clutch slave cylinder leaks.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect fuel lines for cracking, ensure proper maintenance of the ABS system, and use high-quality battery for reliable starting.
