🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850R

Year:

1996-2000

Engine Code:

M72

Chassis Code R850Gs:

R21

Chassis Code R850R:

R20

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size adventure touring and roadster motorcycles

Target Audience:

BMW motorcycle owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed technical information for maintenance and repair

Comparison Points:

Offers a more accessible entry point into BMW's boxer-twin platform compared to larger R11XX models, focusing on practicality and touring capability.

Engine Layout:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder boxer engine

Drive System:

Shaft drive

Design Philosophy:

Robustness, reliability, and versatility for both commuting and long-distance touring.

📋 Manual Details

Mechanical Repairs:

All (A-Z)

Electrical Systems:

All (A-Z)

Models Covered:

All variants of R850GS and R850R

Estimated Pages:

Comprehensive (specific number not provided, but implied extensive)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Printable Pages)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, crankshaft, bearings, etc.)

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection (Motronic), starter system, charging system (alternator, regulator), sensors, wiring diagrams

Transmission:

Clutch, gearbox (5-speed sequential), final drive, lubrication, troubleshooting

Suspension:

Front fork (telescopic, conventional), rear monoshock, adjustments, seals, fluid changes

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (optional), brake fluid replacement, pad/disc wear, caliper service

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulation

Cooling System:

Oil cooling system (air-cooled with oil cooler), oil circulation

Electrical Components:

Lighting, instrumentation, switches, battery, fuses, relays, horn, starter motor

Chassis And Frame:

Frame inspection, disassembly, assembly, bodywork components

Exhaust System:

Exhaust headers, muffler, emissions control (if applicable)

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain/shaft drive checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable)

Disassembly And Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for all major components and systems

Rebuilding Procedures:

Engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, suspension overhauls

Adjustments:

Valve clearance adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, suspension settings

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all systems

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics

Detail Level:

Extensive, with 'tons of detailed pictures & diagrams'

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF (implied by 'printable pages')

Printability:

All pages printable

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke boxer twin, OHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Displacement:

848 cc (850cc class)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Horsepower:

Approx. 70-75 HP (subject to regional variations and specific model tuning)

Torque:

Approx. 76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (subject to regional variations)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (BMW Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON

Ignition System:

Digital ignition (BMW Motronic)

Lubrication System:

Wet sump, forced lubrication with oil cooler

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual sequential gearbox

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Varies by model (R850GS typically longer than R850R)

Width:

Varies by model

Height:

Varies by model

Dry Weight R850Gs:

Approx. 200 kg (441 lbs)

Dry Weight R850R:

Approx. 199 kg (439 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified, but typically around 380-400 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

N/A (Motorcycle specific safety ratings are less standardized than automotive)

Brakes:

Hydraulically operated disc brakes front and rear. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame providing rigidity and rider protection.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals.

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature light, neutral indicator, oil pressure light, turn signal indicators, odometer, trip meter.

ABS:

Optional ABS system (BMW Motorrad ABS II), highly effective for its era.

Diagnostic Port:

Diagnostic capabilities via specific BMW connectors (manual would detail access and procedures).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. Check oil level more frequently.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Gearbox Oil Change:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Final Drive Oil Change:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle specific, API SG or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US qt) with filter change.

Gearbox Oil Type:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5

Gearbox Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.75 liters (0.79 US qt)

Final Drive Oil Type:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5

Final Drive Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.20 liters (0.21 US qt)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Fork Oil Type:

SAE 5W or 7.5W (refer to manual for exact specification)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, rear shock absorber, fork seals, fuel pump

Electrical Gremlins:

Potential issues with aging wiring harnesses, connectors, and voltage regulators. The manual's detailed wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.

Engine Maintenance:

Regular valve adjustments are critical for optimal performance and longevity of the boxer engine.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)

Heritage:

BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its boxer-twin engines and innovation in touring and adventure bikes.

Predecessors:

Evolved from the R100 series and part of the lineage leading to the R11XX GS and R11XX R models. The R850 range was introduced as a slightly smaller displacement option.

Characteristics:

The R850GS offered a more accessible adventure touring experience, while the R850R provided a classic roadster aesthetic with the boxer engine's unique character.

Production Period:

1996-2000 (covered by this manual)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

The R850 series is generally well-regarded for its build quality, reliability, and the characteristic smooth power delivery of the BMW boxer engine. It serves as a capable and comfortable motorcycle for touring and everyday use.