Description:
The BMW R1100RS was a significant sport-touring motorcycle, known for its blend of performance, comfort, and innovative engineering, making this manual essential for owners and independent repair shops.
Competitors:
Competed against sport-touring offerings from Honda (ST series), Kawasaki (GTR series), Yamaha (FJ/FJR series), and Ducati (ST series).
Features:
Boxer-twin engine, Telelever front suspension, Monolever rear suspension, integrated ABS (on many models), comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, piston, cylinder, crankshaft, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train.
Engine Management And Electrical:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes.
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, maintenance, repair, clutch operation and adjustment.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft maintenance, universal joints, final drive unit (bevel gear housing), axle shaft.
Suspension:
Front Telelever suspension system (forks, damping, springs), rear Monolever swingarm system (shock absorber, linkage).
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid replacement, pad and disc inspection/replacement, caliper overhaul.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure, tire types, wheel balancing.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, fuel lines, throttle body servicing.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe inspection, muffler maintenance, catalytic converter information.
Bodywork And Frame:
Fairing removal and installation, body panels, seat, handlebars, frame inspection.
Electrical Systems Detailed:
Lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, horn, rider controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush, clutch fluid flush, valve clearance adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Component Adjustment:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, idle speed setting.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer-twin (flat-twin)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, overhead camshafts (driven by pushrods and rockers)
Horsepower:
90 hp @ 6,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 4,750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
BMW recommends SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-50 motorcycle oil, API SG or higher.
Oil Capacity:
4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Length:
Approx. 2,210 mm (87.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 800 mm (31.5 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1,330 mm (52.4 in) at seat
Dry Weight:
Approx. 242 kg (534 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 265 kg (584 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 liters (6.6 US gallons), including 3 liters reserve.
Infotainment System:
Basic by modern standards. Primarily focused on rider information via the dashboard. May have provisions for aftermarket stereo systems.
ABS:
Optional Integral ABS system, a significant technological feature for its era.
Connectivity Features:
None inherent to the motorcycle's original design; relies on rider input and mechanical feedback.
Engine Management System:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 EFI system, controlling fuel injection and ignition timing.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Valve Check Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or as needed.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50, API SG or higher.
Gearbox Oil Specification:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Clutch Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder seals, alternator brushes, fuel pump relay, rear shock absorber (wear and tear over time).
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report occasional issues with wiring harness connections and the instrument cluster, though generally robust.
Telelever Pivot Bearings:
Requires periodic greasing; wear can lead to steering play.
Oil Filter Example:
BMW Part Number: 11 42 1 450 122 (or equivalent aftermarket such as Mahle OX 37D)
Air Filter Example:
BMW Part Number: 13 72 1 452 774 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Spark Plug Example:
NGK CR9EK or Champion RA6HC (check manual for definitive fitment)
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing robust and technically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer-twin engines and shaft drive systems since the early 20th century.
Evolution:
The R1100RS was part of the R1100 series that introduced a new era for BMW's boxer twins, featuring fuel injection, four-valve heads (in later R1150 models), and the innovative Telelever front suspension.
Production Years:
1993-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
