Category:
Mid-size adventure touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Competitors 1998:
Honda Transalp, Suzuki V-Strom (later models), Kawasaki KLR650, Yamaha XT660 Tenere (later models).
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, flat-twin (boxer) engine.
Suspension Front:
BMW's patented Telelever front suspension for improved handling and reduced dive.
Suspension Rear:
Paralever single-sided swingarm for shaft drive.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for the 848cc boxer-twin engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, lines, and filters.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, timing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox internal components, shift mechanism, final drive.
Suspension:
Front Telelever suspension system, rear Paralever swingarm, shock absorbers, fork seals, bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely ABS II or ABS III), brake discs, calipers, master cylinders, fluid replacement, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, battery, lighting, switches, fuses, relays, instrument cluster.
Frame Chassis:
Frame inspection, alignment, steering head bearings, wheel bearings.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, tank cover, mudguards, side panels.
Maintenance:
Regular service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, valve clearance adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Rebuild:
Complete engine and gearbox rebuild procedures with torque specifications.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling all major vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic rider maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine.
Displacement:
848 cc (51.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (3.54 in x 2.60 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder.
Horsepower:
Approx. 70 hp @ 7000 rpm (manufacturer specific).
Torque:
Approx. 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm (manufacturer specific).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 20 liters (5.3 US gal).
Length:
Approx. 2,225 mm (87.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1,400 mm (55.1 in) at seat
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,490 mm (58.7 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 212 kg (467 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 420 kg (926 lbs)
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meters, fuel level, and warning lights. May include optional analog temperature gauge.
ABS:
Optional anti-lock braking system (ABS) available, providing enhanced safety during braking.
Charging Port:
Provision for optional accessory socket/cigarette lighter for charging electronic devices.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Major Service:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) including valve checks, fuel system inspection, etc.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 API SG or higher (refer to manual for exact BMW specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US qt) without filter change, 3.5 liters (3.7 US qt) with filter change.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5.
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5.
Common Problems:
Potential for wear in the Telelever ball joint, clutch slave cylinder leaks, occasional ABS system issues, fuel pump reliability.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of suspension components, timely brake fluid changes, and ensuring proper fuel system cleaning.
Bmw Motorcycles:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1920s, known for engineering excellence, boxer engines, and shaft drive.
R Series Lineage:
The R850GS is part of the R-series GS (Gelände/Straße - Offroad/Road) line, which began with the R80G/S, evolving into the R100GS, R1100GS, R1150GS, and later R1200GS and beyond.
Production Period:
The R850GS was produced from 1996 to 2000.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad factory).
Overall Reputation:
The R850GS is recognized as a reliable and capable mid-weight adventure tourer, praised for its comfort and handling.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, benefiting from BMW's robust engineering.
Manual Quality:
Professional technical documentation designed to meet automotive service standards.
