🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850 R850GS

Year:

1997

Engine Code Designation:

Type 259

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size adventure touring motorcycle, known for its versatility and robust engineering.

Competitors 1997:

Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha TDM850, Kawasaki KLR650.

Features:

Air-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, shaft drive, ABS (optional).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service Repair and Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

500-700 (typical for comprehensive repair manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), Print (potential for physical copy)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, cylinder head, valves, crankshaft, piston, connecting rods, timing chain, lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, throttle body, fuel tank, fuel lines.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, sensors.

Transmission Gearbox:

Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear selection mechanism, lubrication.

Drivetrain Final Drive:

Driveshaft, universal joints, bevel gear drive, rear axle assembly, lubrication.

Suspension Front:

Telelever front suspension, fork seals, damper unit, steering head bearings, wheel bearings.

Braking System:

Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), starter motor, lighting, horn, dashboard instruments, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.

Frame Chassis:

Frame inspection, disassembly, and reassembly of major components, side stand, center stand.

Bodywork Fairings:

Removal and installation of fairings, seat, fuel tank cover, fenders, luggage rack.

Rear Suspension:

Paralever rear suspension, shock absorber unit, swingarm, wheel bearings.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, drive belt inspection, tire pressure checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, fault codes (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications.

Transmission Repair:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, and associated adjustments.

Suspension Overhaul:

Fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, steering head bearing adjustment.

Brake System Maintenance:

Brake pad replacement, caliper servicing, bleeding procedures, ABS system checks.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic servicing to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans or digitally produced, ensuring clear text and diagrams; searchable PDF functionality is highly desirable.

Print Standards:

Professional printing with clear, legible text and high-contrast illustrations/diagrams. Spiral binding or sturdy paperback for workshop use.

Binding:

Likely Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Quality:

Durable, coated paper stock to withstand workshop conditions and repeated use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (boxer)

Displacement:

848 cc

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approximately 70 hp @ 7,500 rpm (claimed)

Torque:

Approximately 72 Nm (53 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm (claimed)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91-98 RON)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.5 Liters (including filter)

Oil Type Recommendation:

SAE 20W-40 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific BMW approval)

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Type:

5-speed manual constant mesh

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,150 mm (varies slightly with GS configuration)

Width:

Approx. 870 mm (over handlebars)

Height:

Approx. 1,400 mm (over windscreen)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1,450 mm

Dry Weight:

Approx. 215 kg

Wet Weight:

Approx. 235 kg (fully fueled)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 450 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 20 Liters (including reserve)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.5 Liters (with filter change)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS:

Optional BMW Integral ABS

Brakes:

Dual 305mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 276mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear)

Suspension Damping:

Adjustable front and rear suspension for optimal handling and stability.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, front and rear turn signals.

Ergonomics:

Upright riding position for rider comfort and control on varied terrain.

💡 Technology Features

Dashboard:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meter, clock, and warning lights. Optional heated grips indicator.

ABS:

Optional BMW Integral ABS system, a significant technological feature for its time, integrating braking effort across both wheels.

Diagnostic Port:

On-board diagnostics capability via a diagnostic port, essential for troubleshooting EFI and ABS systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km or 12 months (check manual for exact BMW recommendation)

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km or 24 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (check manual for specific plug type and gap)

Air Filter Service:

Check every 10,000 km, clean/replace as needed (depending on conditions)

Engine Oil:

BMW Motorrad recommends specific engine oils, typically semi-synthetic or fully synthetic 20W-40 or 15W-50 conforming to API SG/SH or JASO MA standards. Always consult the manual for precise BMW approvals.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for compatibility and specifications). Must be replaced every 2 years.

Transmission Oil:

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

Coolant:

Not applicable (air-cooled engine)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, wear in the paralever pivot bearings, potential for ABS sensor issues, throttle cable adjustment.

Fuel Injection System:

Occasional issues with fuel pump reliability or injector clogging under certain conditions. Motronic system diagnostics are crucial.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion in connectors, especially on older models, can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable, innovative, and durable motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and touring capabilities.

Series Introduction:

The R850 series was introduced as a slightly detuned and more accessible variant of the R1100 series, offering a balance of performance and manageability.

R850Gs Positioning:

The R850GS specifically offered the adventure styling and capabilities of the GS line with a more manageable engine for riders who didn't require the full power of the R1100GS.

Production Period:

The R850 series, including the R850GS, was produced roughly from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reception:

The R850GS was generally well-received for its comfortable ride, reliability, and versatility, particularly among riders who appreciated BMW's engineering and touring prowess.

Durability Reputation:

Reputed for its robust construction and long-term durability, characteristic of BMW motorcycles of this era.