🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850R / R850C

Year:

2003

Engine Code:

M850

Generation:

Second Generation R850 (based on R1150 platform)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size touring motorcycle, known for comfort and versatility.

Competitors:

Competed with models like Moto Guzzi California, Harley-Davidson Sportster variants, and other European touring bikes of similar displacement.

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, two-cylinder boxer engine.

Chassis:

Robust steel frame, featuring BMW's signature Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension for superior ride quality and handling.

Target Audience:

Touring riders, commuters, and riders seeking a comfortable and reliable machine with BMW build quality.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types

Estimated Page Count:

Likely between 300-600 pages, typical for comprehensive workshop manuals.

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, piston/connecting rod, crankshaft, oil system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4/MGM-4), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel tank, lines.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, timing, ECU control.

Transmission:

Gearbox (5-speed), clutch operation, internal components, gear shift mechanism.

Drivetrain:

Final drive, driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, brake discs, calipers, master cylinders, hydraulic lines, ABS (optional).

Suspension:

Front Telelever suspension, Paralever rear suspension, shock absorbers, fork seals, linkage maintenance.

Electrical System:

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

Electronics:

Engine Control Unit (ECU), ABS control module (if equipped), diagnostics interface.

Chassis Bodywork:

Frame, subframe, fuel tank, seat, fairings, fenders, instrument panel.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, valve clearance checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, fault codes, intermittent issues, electrical system diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension repairs, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical tolerances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW diagnostic software) for fault finding.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

Designed for clarity, with high-resolution diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format - prints on standard paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

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

Displacement:

848 cc (cubic centimeters)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valve Train:

Overhead camshaft (OHC), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod operated.

Cooling System:

Air cooling, with oil cooler.

Horsepower:

Approximately 70 hp (51 kW) at 7000 rpm (figures can vary slightly by region).

Torque:

Approximately 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) at 5500 rpm (figures can vary slightly by region).

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), model MA 2.4/MGM-4.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 2.5 liters (including oil filter).

Recommended Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil is common. Check manual for exact BMW specification.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed, constant mesh, sequential gearbox.

Clutch:

Single dry plate clutch, operated by hydraulic actuation.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to the rear wheel.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual, typical for this model.

Transmission Oil:

Specific transmission/final drive oil type and capacity detailed in manual. Often a gear oil or specific transmission fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 2150 mm (84.6 in)

Width:

Approximately 800 mm (31.5 in) (at handlebars)

Height:

Approximately 1330 mm (52.4 in) (at handlebars/seat)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 in)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 207 kg (456 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approximately 228 kg (503 lbs) (fully fueled)

Max Load:

Consult manual for exact payload capacity.

Fuel Tank Capacity:

21 liters (5.5 US gal), including a 3-liter reserve.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing in the same way as cars. Safety is inherent in design and rider skill.

Brakes:

Standard dual front disc brakes and single rear disc brake. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models, providing enhanced control during braking.

Suspension:

Telelever front and Paralever rear suspension contribute to stability and predictable handling, improving active safety.

Lighting:

Effective headlight, taillight, and turn signals for visibility.

Chassis Design:

Robust frame designed for stability and rider confidence.

Ergonomics:

Comfortable riding position designed to reduce fatigue on longer journeys.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, with LCD display for odometer, trip meters, clock, and warning lights. Often includes fuel level indicator.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, enhancing safety during braking in various conditions.

Diagnostics:

Features a diagnostic port for connecting specialized BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) to read fault codes and perform system tests, as covered in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Change:

Recommended every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Service:

Inspect every 10,000 km (6,000 miles), replace as needed or at 20,000 km (12,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).

Valve Clearance Check:

Recommended every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

If equipped with oil cooler and associated plumbing for cooling assist, refer to specific intervals in manual.

Engine Oil:

BMW recommends specific motorcycle oil meeting their FQ-ML 001/04 standard. SAE 20W-50 is typical. Check manual for exact part number/specification.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid. Always use a fresh, sealed container.

Final Drive Oil:

Refer to manual for specific BMW gearbox oil specification, likely a high-quality gear oil.

Hall Sensor:

The Hall sensor (engine position sensor) can sometimes fail, leading to starting issues or stalling. Replacement is straightforward.

Fuel Pump:

While generally reliable, the fuel pump can eventually wear out. Symptoms include hard starting or loss of power.

Clutch Actuator:

Occasionally, the hydraulic clutch actuator can develop leaks or stiff operation. Proper maintenance and bleeding are key.

Suspension Seals:

Like any motorcycle, fork seals and rear shock seals can eventually wear, requiring replacement to prevent leaks and maintain damping performance.

ABS Module:

On models equipped with ABS, the ABS control module can sometimes be a point of failure, though typically robust.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long and distinguished history of motorcycle production, dating back to the 1920s, known for engineering excellence, innovation, and durability.

Lineage:

The R850R and R850C models are part of BMW's long-standing tradition of Boxer-engined motorcycles. They represent a slightly detuned and more accessible variant of the popular R1100/R1150 series, offering a balance of performance and manageable power.

Production Period:

The R850R model was produced from approximately 1995 to 2007. The R850C Cruiser variant was introduced later, around 2001-2006.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured by BMW Motorrad in Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

BMW motorcycles, including the R850 series, are consistently recognized for their build quality, engineering, and long-term durability, making them popular in the used market.

Owner Satisfaction:

Owner satisfaction surveys for BMW motorcycles generally rank high due to reliability and performance characteristics.

Manufacturing Standards:

Produced under stringent ISO quality standards by BMW Motorrad.