Market Position:
The BMW R1100 GS is a highly regarded large-displacement adventure touring motorcycle, renowned for its robust engineering, comfort over long distances, and off-road capability. This manual serves owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair this iconic model.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed in the adventure touring segment against motorcycles like the Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Super Tenere, and Triumph Tiger. The R1100 GS distinguished itself with its boxer twin engine, shaft drive, and Telelever front suspension.
Key Features:
Air/oil-cooled boxer twin engine, shaft drive, Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance travel, robust build quality.
Target Audience:
BMW R1100 GS owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, and automotive repair enthusiasts.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Fuel System, Electrical System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Wiring Diagrams
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical and electronic), Fuel Injection System (Bosch Motronic 2.4), Ignition System, Clutch, Gearbox, Final Drive, Suspension (Telelever front, Paralever rear), Braking System (ABS II optional), Electrical System (including wiring harnesses and components), Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Body Panels, Fuel Tank, Seat, Luggage Systems
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Engine Overhaul (cylinder head removal, piston inspection, valve adjustment), Fuel System Diagnostics and Repair, Ignition System Testing, Transmission Service and Repair, Final Drive Inspection and Service, Suspension Adjustment and Overhaul, Brake System Bleeding and Pad Replacement, Electrical System Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation and clearing, Torque Specifications for all fasteners
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and specific repair procedures.
Troubleshooting Methods:
Systematic troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and component testing procedures. Covers common electrical and mechanical faults.
Electrical System Details:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, including lighting, ignition, fuel injection, starter, charging system, ABS (if applicable), and instrument panel. Includes component location and testing procedures.
Bodywork Procedures:
Removal and installation of fairings, fuel tank, seat, luggage racks, and other body panels. Includes fastener torque specifications and alignment guidelines.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer twin
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Power Output:
80 hp (59 kW) @ 6750 rpm
Torque Output:
97 Nm (71.5 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm
Top Speed:
Approx. 190 km/h (118 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.4 Fuel Injection with Electronic Ignition
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane (RON)
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 API SG or higher (or BMW recommended)
Oil Capacity:
4.0 liters (4.2 US qt.) with filter change
Ignition System:
Electronic (Bosch Motronic 2.4)
Spark Plugs:
NGK CR9EK or Champion RA59GC
Cooling Method:
Air cooling for cylinders and heads, oil cooling for engine oil.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
0.35 liters (0.37 US qt.)
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
0.25 liters (0.26 US qt.)
Length:
2230 mm (87.8 in)
Height:
1430 mm (56.3 in) at seat height
Wheelbase:
1487 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
236 kg (520 lbs)
Wet Weight:
265 kg (584 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
24 liters (6.3 US gal), including 4 liters reserve
Frame Type:
Steel tubular frame
Front Suspension:
BMW Telelever with central spring strut
Rear Suspension:
BMW Paralever with single shock absorber
Front Tire Size:
110/80 R 19
Rear Tire Size:
150/70 R 17
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle specific safety features apply)
Active Safety Features:
Optional ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System), powerful braking system, stable chassis geometry.
Passive Safety Features:
Robust frame construction, integrated fairing and windshield for rider protection, provision for handguards and engine crash bars.
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrument cluster with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights. Provision for accessory audio systems. (Not a primary focus of this model's technology).
Driver Assistance Systems:
Optional ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Motorcycle of this era predates modern connectivity features)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement Interval:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Drive Shaft Service:
Check U-joint grease every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), re-grease as needed. Inspect splines every 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommended)
Known Issues:
Common issues include stator failure, hall sensor failure, ABS modulator issues (if equipped), final drive spline wear, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and fuel pump issues. The manual provides diagnostic steps for these.
Component Wear Inspection:
Guidance on inspecting brake pads, discs, tires, clutch wear, and final drive splines for wear and tear.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing innovative and durable motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer engine configurations and adventure touring models.
Model Evolution:
The R1100 GS, introduced in 1994, was a significant evolution from its predecessor, the R100 GS. It featured a larger engine, modern fuel injection, and the innovative Telelever front suspension, setting new standards for the adventure bike category.
Production Years:
1994-1999 (with variations, 2000 model year signifies later production run of this generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
