Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and long-distance touring capability.
Competitors:
Honda VFR, Kawasaki GTR, Yamaha FJR (at the time of its production).
Design:
Shaft-driven, Boxer twin engine, aerodynamic fairing, comfortable riding position.
Engineering:
BMW's Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear drive, robust build quality.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Control Units (ECU), ABS (if equipped)
Body And Fairings:
Body panels, Fairings, Seat, Windscreen, Luggage systems
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Valve adjustments, Spark plug replacement, Brake fluid flush, Coolant replacement, Drive belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Error code interpretation
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Suspension component replacement, Brake system overhaul, Electrical component diagnosis and repair
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, complex repairs, and diagnostic procedures, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans or digital creation, ensuring clear text and diagrams.
Searchable:
Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick access to information.
Printable:
Designed to be printable, allowing for physical reference.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, overhead camshaft (SOHC)
Horsepower:
90 hp (66 kW) @ 7250 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
73.8 lb-ft (100 Nm) @ 5750 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 or 15W-50 API SG/SH Motorcycle Oil (check manual for exact specs)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Type:
Electronic Ignition (Motronic)
Configuration:
Two into one into two catalytic converter system
Clutch:
Single dry plate, hydraulically operated
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios; designed for touring performance.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 75W/90 API GL-5 (check manual for exact specifications)
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 90 API GL-5 or BMW Hypoid Gear Oil (check manual)
Length:
Approx. 2170 mm (85.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 860 mm (33.9 in) (over mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in) (at windscreen)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 247 kg (545 lbs) (ready to ride)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to manual for exact GVWR
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 25 Liters (6.6 US gal), including reserve
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is primarily based on rider skill and protective gear; no official crash test ratings like cars).
Brakes:
Dual disc front brakes with 4-piston calipers, Single disc rear brake with 2-piston caliper. Optional ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System) available.
Suspension:
BMW Telelever front suspension for improved stability and feedback, BMW Paralever rear suspension.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, comprehensive taillight and turn signal array.
Handling:
Stable chassis design contributing to rider confidence.
Audio:
Optional factory-fitted radio/cassette or CD player units were available on some models, integrated into the fairing.
ABS:
Optional ABS II system, a significant safety feature for its era, providing anti-lock braking on both wheels.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostic capabilities via the Motronic system, accessible with specialized BMW diagnostic tools.
Dashboard:
Comprehensive analog tachometer and speedometer, along with digital readouts for fuel level, engine temperature, clock, and gear indicator (on some models).
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Adjustment:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Drive Shaft Lubrication:
Refer to manual; typically includes spline lubrication at major service intervals.
Coolant:
BMW-approved coolant (ethylene glycol based) with corrosion inhibitors (check manual for specific type and mix ratio).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fuel pump reliability, starter motor solenoid, rear shock absorber seals, ABS sensor failures (on equipped models).
Electrical Concerns:
Wiring harness degradation over time, especially around the ignition coils and ABS components. The infamous 'CAN bus' system, while advanced for its time, can sometimes present diagnostic challenges.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and clean the oil cooler fins, ensure correct torque on the final drive bolts, and keep the battery terminals clean and tight.
Legacy:
BMW Motorrad, a division of BMW AG, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and innovation in motorcycle design since the early 20th century.
R Series:
The R1100RS is part of BMW's iconic R series, which historically featured boxer engines and shaft drive. It evolved from earlier models like the R100RS, incorporating significant technological advancements.
R1100 Range:
The R1100RS shared its fundamental engine and chassis architecture with other R1100 models, including the R1100GS (adventure), R1100RT (touring), and R1100R (naked roadster), allowing for some parts commonality.
Production Years:
The R1100RS was produced from 1992 to 2001.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
