Market Position:
The BMW R1100S was positioned as a sporty tourer and all-around sport motorcycle, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and BMW's renowned engineering. It competed with other large-displacement sport-touring bikes from manufacturers like Ducati, Honda, and Yamaha.
Competitive Analysis:
The R1100S offered a unique boxer-twin engine platform, characteristic BMW handling (Telelever front, Paralever rear), and robust build quality. It was often lauded for its torque, shaft drive, and comfort on longer rides, differentiating it from more aggressively styled or inline-four powered competitors.
Key Features:
Torquey 1085cc Boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, optional ABS, comfortable ergonomics for sport-touring, durable construction.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine Management, Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2), Ignition System, Clutch, Gearbox, Driveshaft, Paralever Rear Suspension, Telelever Front Suspension, ABS II Braking System, Integral ABS (if equipped), Electrical Components, Lighting, Instrumentation, Battery, Charging System, Starter Motor, Body Panels, Seat, Fairings, Windscreen, Fuel Tank, Luggage Systems
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Oil and Filter Changes, Valve Clearance Adjustment, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Service, Fuel Filter Replacement, Clutch Adjustment and Service, Gearbox Oil Change, Driveshaft U-joint Inspection and Lubrication, Suspension Adjustments, Brake Pad and Disc Replacement, Bleeding Brake System, Electrical Troubleshooting, Component Testing and Replacement, Engine Diagnostics, ECU Fault Code Retrieval, Carburetor Cleaning (if applicable to specific sub-models/emissions), Tire Mounting and Balancing, Wheel Bearing Service, Fairing Removal and Installation, Wiring Harness Repair
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis repairs. Includes detailed exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat twin (boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Power Output:
90 hp (67 kW) @ 7250 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
97 Nm (71.5 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Top Speed:
Approx. 210 km/h (130 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.2 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (Octane)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 Liters (approx. 6.6 US gallons)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 (API SG/SH or higher)
Oil Capacity:
3.0 Liters (approx. 3.2 US quarts) without filter change; 3.2 Liters (approx. 3.4 US quarts) with filter change
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with Paralever single-sided swingarm
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (typically close-ratio for sporty performance)
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.23 Liters (approx. 0.24 US quarts)
Length:
Approx. 2180 mm (85.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 840 mm (33.1 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1260 mm (49.6 in) at handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 247 kg (545 lbs) with full fluids
Load Capacity:
Refer to owner's manual for specific rider and luggage limits
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are not standardized like automotive crash tests)
Active Safety Features:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II (later Integral ABS), powerful dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, responsive suspension, excellent braking feel.
Passive Safety Features:
Sturdy frame construction, rider protection via fairings and windscreen, potential for aftermarket crash protection (e.g., engine guards).
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation with analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD multi-function display. No integrated infotainment system in the modern sense. Provision for heated grips and accessory power outlets.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional ABS II or Integral ABS, hazard warning lights.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone integration)
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, multi-reflector tail light and indicators.
Routine Service Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. This includes oil and filter change, checking all fluid levels, inspecting brake pads, tire pressure, and overall condition. Valve clearance checks typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 20W-50, API SG/SH or higher
Transmission Oil Spec:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Coolant Spec:
BMW recommends a 50/50 mix of distilled water and BMW approved coolant concentrate (ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors) for the oil cooler circuit (if equipped and integrated).
Known Issues:
Common issues can include: fuel pump relay failures, failing alternator brushes, wear on the rear driveshaft splines (requiring periodic lubrication), occasional issues with the ABS control module, and potential fuel injector leaks. Some owners report clutch slave cylinder seal wear. The wiring harness can be a point of concern if not properly maintained.
Spark Plug Type:
NGK BKR7EKC-N or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec and torque)
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW Part Number: 11 42 1 450 904 (or equivalent from Hiflofiltro HF160, K&N KN-160)
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and distinguished history of motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to 1923. Known for innovation, quality, reliability, and a focus on touring and sport-touring motorcycles, particularly with its boxer-twin engine platform.
Model Evolution:
The R1100S was introduced in 1998 as a sportier interpretation of BMW's boxer-twin platform, building upon the R1100R and R1100GS. It featured a lower, more aggressive riding position, revised suspension geometry, and sportier styling. The 2001 model year represents a mature iteration of this design, often benefiting from minor updates and improvements over earlier versions.
Production Years:
1998 - 2005
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
