Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: K1100LT / RS Generation Model Years Covered: 1989-1999 (estimated, common manual coverage for this generation) Codes Engine Code: K1100 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The...
1989-1999 (estimated, common manual coverage for this generation)
Codes
Engine Code:
K1100
Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The K1100LT and RS were BMW's flagship touring and sport-touring motorcycles of their era, known for their advanced engineering, performance, and comfort. This manual caters to owners and technicians seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with other high-end touring motorcycles from Japanese manufacturers (e.g., Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha Venture) and other European brands. The K1100 offered a unique inline-four engine configuration and BMW's characteristic build quality.
Key Features
Manual Value Proposition:
Ensures owners can perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership services. Provides detailed technical information crucial for preserving the performance and longevity of these sophisticated machines.
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and workshop procedures
Engine rebuild, transmission repair, suspension overhaul, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, brake system bleeding and component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, error code interpretation (if applicable to the era's diagnostic capabilities)
Technical Depth
Depth:
Expert-level, covering complete disassembly, assembly, and calibration of all major vehicle components.
Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
High-resolution PDF with searchable text for efficient information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
Crisp, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke inline-four cylinder
Displacement:
1092 cc (1.1 L)
Bore X Stroke:
72 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Power Output Hp:
90-100 hp (approximate, varies by tuning and market)
Power Output Kw:
67-74 kW (approximate)
Torque Nm:
96-100 Nm (approximate)
Performance
Top Speed Kph:
200+ km/h (125+ mph)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity Liters:
22 L
Fuel Consumption L100Km:
5.0 - 7.0 L/100km (approximate, depending on riding conditions)
Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated dry single-plate clutch
Features
Drive Type:
Shaft drive to rear wheel
Gear Ratios:
Detailed in manual (specific ratios for each gear)
Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
2230 mm (LT), 2190 mm (RS) (approximate)
Width Mm:
900 mm (LT), 850 mm (RS) (approximate)
Height Mm:
1400 mm (LT), 1280 mm (RS) (approximate)
Wheelbase Mm:
1495 mm
Weights
Dry Weight Kg:
254 kg (LT), 235 kg (RS) (approximate)
Wet Weight Kg:
275 kg (LT), 256 kg (RS) (approximate, with fluids)
Max Load Kg:
450 kg (approximate, rider + luggage)
Safety Features
Ratings
ABS:
BMW Motorrad ABS available as an option on many models
Active Features
Braking System Front:
Dual disc brakes, 305 mm diameter, 4-piston calipers
Braking System Rear:
Single disc brake, 277 mm diameter, 2-piston caliper
Passive Features
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight (depending on specific year/model)
Technology Features
Infotainment
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital odometer and trip meter, fuel level gauge, engine temperature gauge, warning lights.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Optional BMW Integral ABS (first generation) offering linked braking functionality.
Connectivity
Charging System:
12V electrical system with alternator and battery for power supply and ignition.
Diagnostic Interface:
Early diagnostic capabilities often involved specialized BMW tools or manual troubleshooting procedures described in detail within this manual.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Km:
10,000 km or annually
Valve Clearance Km:
20,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
20,000 km (or as specified by BMW, often using specific long-life plugs)
Brake Fluid Change Years:
2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50, API SG or higher, JASO MA certified (check manual for exact specification)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.0 L (with filter change)
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Stiff gear shifting (especially after prolonged use), occasional issues with the Motronic fuel injection system sensors (e.g., throttle position sensor), rear shock absorber wear, ABS system faults (if equipped and not properly maintained), clutch slave cylinder leaks.
Preventative Measures:
Adhering to the strict maintenance schedule, using high-quality fluids, keeping electrical connections clean, and addressing any unusual noises or performance deviations promptly.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and distinguished history dating back to 1923, renowned for its engineering prowess, reliability, and innovation in motorcycle design.
Model Evolution
K Series Origin:
The K1100 is part of BMW's K-series, introduced in the early 1980s featuring a revolutionary longitudinally mounted inline-four engine. The K1100 was an evolution, refining the earlier K100 and introducing a larger displacement and improved chassis.
Lt Vs Rs:
The LT (Luxus Touren) variant was focused on touring comfort with full fairings, wind protection, and amenities. The RS (Rennsport) variant offered a sportier riding position and more aerodynamic fairing for a more performance-oriented experience.
Production
Production Period:
Mid-1989 to mid-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards Achievements:
While specific 'awards' for this model are less common in the automotive press of its era, the K1100 series was widely recognized for its engineering, reliability, and successful integration of automotive-derived technology into a motorcycle platform, solidifying BMW's reputation in the premium touring segment.
Ratings
Build Quality Reputation:
Consistently rated highly for build quality and durability by owners and specialized motorcycle publications.
Certifications
Manual Quality Claim:
Marketed as the 'Best Manual Available,' 'Complete Manual - No Missing Pages!', and 'Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed,' indicating a commitment to providing a high-quality, comprehensive resource.