Market Position:
The BMW R850 series targeted riders seeking a more accessible yet still premium Boxer-engined motorcycle, often positioned as a versatile touring and commuting machine.
Competitors:
Competed with touring and sport-touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (ST series), Yamaha (FJ/FJR series), Kawasaki (Concours), and Triumph (Trophy series).
Key Features:
Iconic BMW Boxer engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics, reliable performance, and solid build quality.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the R850 boxer engine.
Transmission:
Details on the gearbox, clutch, and final drive.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of lighting, ignition, and charging systems.
Suspension:
Front fork and rear shock absorber servicing and adjustment.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, component testing, and cleaning.
Cooling System:
Engine oil cooling system maintenance and fluid checks.
Frame And Bodywork:
Body panel removal, fairing components, and chassis maintenance.
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Engine management system diagnostics, sensor testing, and actuator checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (Boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Valve Train:
Overhead camshaft (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder
Power Output:
Approximately 70 hp (51 kW) at 7250 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) at 5500 rpm
Top Speed:
Approximately 185 km/h (115 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Capacity:
19.5 liters (5.1 gallons)
Oil Capacity:
3.0 liters (3.17 quarts) with filter change
Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-40 or SAE 15W-50 motorcycle oil meeting BMW specifications (e.g., BMW Motorrad Special Oil)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Standard 5-speed for this model year)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Gearbox Oil Specification:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 synthetic gear oil
Final Drive Oil Specification:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 synthetic gear oil
Length:
Approximately 2245 mm (88.4 in)
Width:
Approximately 900 mm (35.4 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approximately 1350 mm (53.1 in) at seat (unladen)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 220 kg (485 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 235 kg (518 lbs) (fully fueled)
Max Load:
Approximately 200 kg (441 lbs)
Infotainment System:
Basic; typically analogue instrumentation with an LCD display for odometer, trip meter, and clock. Heated grips were a common option.
ABS:
Optional ABS system for enhanced braking control.
Connectivity Options:
None (standard for the era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Filter Change Interval:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).
Valve Adjustment:
Refer to manual, typically around 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW approval)
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine, oil cooling only)
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 (shared with brake system)
Common Issues:
Leaking output shaft seal, ABS sensor issues, occasional electrical connector corrosion.
Engine Wear Points:
Cam chain tensioner, piston rings (at high mileage).
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW part number 11 42 1 450 895 (or equivalent aftermarket, e.g., Mahle OC 91 or KN-160)
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing heritage of producing high-quality motorcycles, particularly known for its innovative Boxer engine design and enduring touring capabilities.
Model Evolution:
The R850 series was developed as a more accessible alternative to the larger displacement R1100/R1150 models, offering a similar character and technology with a smaller engine.
Production Years:
The R850R and R850C models were produced for various years, with the 2000 model year being a significant iteration.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Industry Recognition:
While specific awards for the R850R/C are not widely documented, the model benefited from BMW's established reputation for quality, durability, and engineering excellence in the motorcycle market.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally positive for its comfort, reliability, and Boxer engine character, though some riders found the 850cc displacement slightly underpowered compared to larger bikes.
