Positioning:
The BMW R850R was positioned as a more accessible, touring-oriented variant of BMW's iconic R-series boxer platform, offering comfort and practicality for everyday riding and long-distance journeys.
Competitors:
Competed with other mid-weight to large-displacement touring and sport-touring motorcycles from Japanese and European manufacturers.
Features:
Characteristic boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics, Telelever front suspension, and robust build quality typical of BMW.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting for the R850R boxer engine.
Transmission:
Maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of the 5-speed gearbox and clutch assembly.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper overhaul, hydraulic system bleeding, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of ignition, lighting, charging, and starting systems.
Suspension:
Front fork (telelever) and rear monoshock absorber maintenance, adjustment, and rebuild procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and testing (if applicable).
Bodywork:
Fairing removal/installation, seat maintenance, fender replacement, and general body panel repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, and general upkeep.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all torque values for critical fasteners.
Diagnostic Charts:
Flowcharts and tables to assist in identifying and resolving problems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Advanced diagnostic procedures included.
Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke boxer twin
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
70 hp (51 kW) @ 7000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Ignition:
Digital electronic ignition system
Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox
Clutch:
Single dry plate, mechanically operated diaphragm spring clutch
Drive:
Shaft drive to rear wheel
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5 Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific mineral oil)
Length:
Approx. 2190 mm (86.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 800 mm (31.5 in) (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 in) (seat height)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 227 kg (500 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 249 kg (549 lbs) (fully fueled)
Max Load:
Approx. 495 kg (1091 lbs) (GVWR)
Front Tire Size:
110/80 ZR 18
Rear Tire Size:
140/80 R 17
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Not Applicable (shaft drive)
Crash Test Results:
Not typically rated for motorcycles in the same manner as automobiles.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes with 4-piston calipers, single disc rear brake with 2-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, full complement of LED tail and indicator lights.
Frame:
Steel tube frame providing robust structural integrity.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Adjustment:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W/50 API SG or higher (mineral-based often recommended by BMW for air-cooled boxers)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.75 liters (2.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant:
Not applicable (air-cooled engine)
Common Issues:
Potential for clutch slave cylinder leaks, early ABS system faults (if equipped), and occasional ignition module issues. Routine maintenance is key to longevity.
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW Part # 11 42 1 451 010 (example, verify with VIN)
Air Filter Part Number:
BMW Part # 13 72 1 451 078 (example, verify with VIN)
Heritage:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the early 20th century, renowned for its boxer-twin engines, shaft drive, and engineering prowess.
Evolution:
The R850R is a descendant of BMW's R-series, evolving from earlier models like the R75/5 and R100 series. It introduced modern features while retaining the classic boxer configuration.
Production Years:
1994-2000 (for R850R variant)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau Plant)
