Positioning:
The BMW R1150GS is a flagship adventure touring motorcycle known for its robust engineering, long-distance comfort, and off-road capability. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair this iconic machine.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Honda Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger, and Yamaha Super Tenere in the adventure touring segment.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on reliability, rider comfort for long distances, and versatile performance across various terrains.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and electrical systems, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, specifications, diagnostic procedures
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 400-600
Type:
Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system (oil cooler), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, driveshaft maintenance, final drive unit service
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork (BMW Telelever), rear suspension (BMW Paralever), wheel bearing service, steering head bearing maintenance
Brakes:
ABS II system troubleshooting and maintenance, brake fluid replacement, caliper and master cylinder service, rotor and pad replacement
Electrical System:
Battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams for all circuits
Fuel System:
Fuel pump operation, fuel filter replacement, fuel injector cleaning and testing, throttle body adjustment
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat adjustments, luggage system mounting, body panel repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake bleeding, valve clearance checks
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension overhauls, electrical diagnostics and repair, braking system component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues
Specifications:
Torque values, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, wear limits
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic user maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer-twin engine
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Horsepower:
85 hp @ 6,750 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON recommended)
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition
Oil Type:
BMW Motor Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol GPS 15W-50)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 3.0 liters
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled with oil cooling circuit
Gearbox Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
Shaft drive to rear wheel
Gear Ratios:
Detailed ratios provided within the manual.
Transmission Oil:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 80W-90 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140)
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width W Mirrors:
Approx. 940 mm (37.0 in)
Height W O Mirrors:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 220 kg (485 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 242 kg (534 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 liters (5.3 US gal), including 4-liter reserve
ABS System:
BMW Motorrad ABS II (Optional on some models, standard on many markets for 2000)
Braking System:
Dual disc front, single disc rear with ABS capability.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, turn signals.
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, fuel gauge, gear indicator, warning lights.
ABS:
BMW Motorrad ABS II (often equipped, highly effective for its era).
Charging Socket:
Standard 12V accessory socket for charging electronics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 6,000 miles (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km or 12,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 20,000-40,000 km depending on plug type.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 (API SG/SH/SJ or JASO MA compatible)
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
SAE 80W-90 (API GL-5)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Glycol-based)
Coolant Type:
Not applicable (air/oil-cooled)
Common Problems:
Oil leaks (especially around cylinder head), clutch slave cylinder leaks, ABS sensor issues, paralever spline lubrication wear.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and lubricate the paralever splines, inspect and replace the clutch slave cylinder seal as preventative maintenance.
Bmw Motorrad Legacy:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing robust, reliable motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and touring capabilities since the early 20th century.
R1150Gs Lineage:
The R1150GS succeeded the R1100GS and was part of the evolving 'GS' line, designed to blend on-road touring comfort with off-road prowess. It featured engine enhancements and chassis improvements over its predecessor.
Production Years R1150Gs:
1999-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
