Positioning:
The BMW R 1100 R was positioned as a versatile, comfortable sport-touring motorcycle with a focus on road performance andBMW's signature engineering.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a reliable, shaft-driven motorcycle for commuting, touring, and general spirited riding, appreciating BMW's Boxer engine character.
Key Competitors:
Honda VFR750F, Yamaha FJ1200, Kawasaki GTR1000, Triumph Trophy 900/1200.
Bmw Advantages:
Unique Boxer engine layout, shaft drive, Telelever front suspension offering improved ride comfort and handling, ABS availability, robust build quality.
Features:
Air/oil-cooled Boxer twin, electronic fuel injection, Monolever rear swingarm (with Paralever linkage), Telelever front suspension, optional ABS, comfortable ergonomics for touring.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for BMW R 1100 R models
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, diagnostics, troubleshooting, electrical system, mechanical components, bodywork
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, timing, valve adjustment, cooling system (oil), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic M3.1), ignition system
Transmission:
Clutch (dry, single-plate), gearbox (5-speed), final drive (shaft drive), lubrication, disassembly, reassembly
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front Telelever, rear Paralever), steering, wheel bearings, brake system (ABS optional), ABS hydraulic unit
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, lighting, instrumentation, diagnostics, ECU troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, air filter system
Bodywork:
Fairing, seat, fuel tank, fenders, exhaust system, side stands, center stand
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements, chain/drive adjustments, bolt torquing
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable), component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor synchronization (if applicable, though fuel injected), throttle cable adjustment, clutch adjustment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW specific tools
Depth:
Full mechanical and electrical repair, from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, OHC, pushrod actuated (initially OHC, later models adopted OHC with single overhead cam per cylinder)
Horsepower:
90 hp @ 6750 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M3.1 electronic fuel injection with digital engine management
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Cooling Method:
Air/oil cooled
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (with filter change)
Recommended Oil Grade:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 (check manual for specific ambient temperature ranges)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (BMW CDI)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
Shaft drive via BMW Monolever system with Paralever linkage
Gear Ratios:
Varies by model year, consult manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.46:1, 2nd: 2.16:1, 3rd: 1.52:1, 4th: 1.17:1, 5th: 0.97:1)
Final Drive Ratio:
3.00:1 (typical)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 liters
Gearbox Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (BMW recommends their own or equivalent)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.2 liters
Final Drive Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 75W-90
Length:
Approx. 2,170 mm (85.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 840 mm (33.1 in) (over handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1,280 mm (50.4 in) (over windscreen)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,486 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 234 kg (516 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 460 kg (1014 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 liters (6.6 US gal), including 4-liter reserve
ABS Availability:
Optional (BMW Motorrad ABS)
Braking System:
Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 276 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear). Optional integrated ABS.
Suspension Design:
Telelever front suspension for improved stability and feel, Paralever rear for reduced drivetrain reaction.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight (typical for the era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), including valve adjustment, spark plug replacement, and thorough inspection.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Coolant:
N/A (Air/oil cooled engine)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, output shaft seal.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can sometimes experience issues with wiring harness connectors or sensor failures, particularly at higher mileages. Crucial for the manual to detail diagnostic steps.
Fuel Injection System:
While robust, can require periodic cleaning of injectors or adjustment of throttle bodies. Motronic system diagnostics are key.
Suspension Wear:
Telelever and Paralever joints can eventually show wear, affecting handling. Proper lubrication and checking of pivot points is essential.
Bmw Motorrad Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles, particularly known for their Boxer engine configuration and shaft drive.
Predecessors:
Successor to the R 100 RT/RS/GS series, incorporating a larger engine and updated chassis/suspension technology.
Successors:
Evolved into the R 1150 R and subsequent R 1200 R models.
Production Period:
1994-1996 (for this specific manual coverage)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
Awards Received:
While specific awards for this model might not be widely documented, BMW motorcycles of this period were consistently praised for their engineering, durability, and touring capabilities by automotive press.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally regarded as very reliable and durable, especially with proper maintenance as outlined in the service manual.