🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R 850 C

Year:

1998-1999

Engine Code:

Not explicitly specified, but assumed to be the R 850 series boxer twin

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Touring/Cruiser motorcycle, blending BMW's engineering with a more relaxed riding posture and styling.

Competitors:

Likely competed with other large-displacement cruisers and touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (e.g., Magna), Yamaha (e.g., V-Star), and possibly Harley-Davidson.

Unique Selling Points:

BMW's signature boxer-twin engine known for its torque and smooth power delivery, shaft drive for low maintenance, and distinctive styling. Emphasis on comfortable long-distance touring.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Maintenance and repair procedures for BMW R 850 C models

Page Count:

Not specified in product information. Typical service manuals of this era range from 300-600 pages.

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (assumed based on product description context)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair including cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, and oil pump.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Bing) or fuel injection system maintenance, adjustments, and troubleshooting; fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel tank procedures.

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, and related electronic components diagnostic and service procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe, muffler, and catalytic converter (if applicable) inspection, replacement, and maintenance.

Transmission And Clutch:

Clutch operation, adjustment, and replacement; gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair; gear shift linkage.

Drivetrain:

Final drive (shaft drive) inspection, maintenance, and repair including bevel gear, driveshaft, and universal joints.

Suspension Front:

Telescopic fork maintenance, seal replacement, oil changes, spring inspection, and general overhaul.

Suspension Rear:

Monolever or Paralever rear suspension system inspection, adjustment, shock absorber servicing, and linkage maintenance.

Brakes Front:

Brake caliper servicing, pad replacement, disc inspection, brake line maintenance, and hydraulic system bleeding.

Brakes Rear:

Rear brake caliper servicing, pad replacement, disc inspection, brake line maintenance, and hydraulic system bleeding.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure, tire wear, and rim maintenance.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, and switches.

Instrumentation:

Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, and other dashboard component diagnostics and repair.

Bodywork And Frame:

Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, fuel tank removal, frame inspection, and minor body panel repairs.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/shaft drive lubrication, brake fluid checks, tire pressure checks, and general inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems related to engine performance, electrical systems, fuel delivery, and braking.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, and major electrical system repairs.

Component Disassembly Assembly:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, servicing, and reinstalling all major motorcycle components.

Technical Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and other critical data for accurate servicing.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if created from digital source or properly OCR'd.

Image Quality:

Recommended Adobe PDF Reader for correct display of images/graphics. Quality depends on original source scan or creation.

Printability:

PDF format is generally printable, though layout may vary.

Binding:

Not applicable to PDF format; applies to physical manuals.

Paper Quality:

Not applicable to PDF format; applies to physical manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)

Displacement:

848 cc (approx.)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical for R 850 variants)

Power Output:

Approximately 70-75 hp at 6,750 rpm (specific to R 850 C)

Torque Output:

Approximately 75-80 Nm at 4,750 rpm (specific to R 850 C)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (typical for R 850 variants)

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated OHV with BMW's signature system

Fuel Delivery:

Likely fuel injection (K-Jetronic or similar) or possibly early models with carburetors (e.g., dual Bing).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 17-18 liters (4.5-4.8 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Type:

None (typically)

Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,260 mm (89.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 880 mm (34.6 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1,120 mm (44.1 in) to top of windscreen

Seat Height:

Approx. 760 mm (29.9 in)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 215 kg (474 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified, but typically around 400-450 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Motorcycles of this era are not subjected to standardized crash testing in the same way as automobiles. Safety relies on rider skill and vehicle design.

Braking:

Disc brakes front and rear. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) may have been available.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp for improved visibility.

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame designed for stability and rigidity.

Ergonomics:

Cruiser-style ergonomics with a lower seat height and forward-mounted footpegs for rider comfort.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Primarily functional instrumentation. Infotainment systems as we know them today were not standard. May have provisions for aftermarket radio/communication systems.

ABS:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available, enhancing safety.

Features:

No integrated connectivity features. Basic electrical system for lights, ignition, and instrumentation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact interval.

Valve Adjustment Interval:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed, depending on symptoms.

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-40 or 20W-50. Consult manual for precise BMW recommendation.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Transmission Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W/90 (API GL-5).

Final Drive Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W/90 (API GL-5).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Fuel Line Corrosion:

Early models might experience issues with fuel lines degrading due to ethanol in modern fuels. Check for hardening or cracking.

Ignition Coil Failure:

While generally reliable, ignition coils can fail over time, leading to misfires or no-spark conditions.

Starter Clutch Wear:

With high mileage, the starter clutch mechanism can wear, resulting in a grinding noise or failure to engage the engine for starting.

Paralever Pivot Bearings:

The pivot bearings in the Paralever rear suspension can wear, leading to a clunking noise or vague rear-end feel.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:

BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1920s, renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and innovation.

R850C Introduction:

The R 850 C was part of BMW's cruiser lineup, an evolution of their boxer-twin platform adapted for a more relaxed, American-style cruiser aesthetic.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Berlin-Spandau factory)

Production Period:

Late 1990s to early 2000s.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

BMW motorcycles are generally highly regarded for build quality, durability, and engineering. The R 850 C offered a comfortable and refined cruiser experience for its segment.

Customer Satisfaction:

Typically high due to BMW's reputation, though specific model awards are less common for individual motorcycle variants in this era.

Emissions:

Compliant with emissions standards applicable in its original markets for the model years 1998-1999.