🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1100RT

Year:

1996

Generation:

First Generation (R259)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW R1100RT was positioned as a premium sport-touring motorcycle, blending performance, comfort, and technology for long-distance riding. It appealed to riders seeking a refined and capable machine for commuting, touring, and spirited riding.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other large-displacement sport-touring motorcycles of the era, such as the Honda ST1100 Pan European, Kawasaki GTR1000, and Yamaha FJ1200. The R1100RT differentiated itself with its boxer engine layout, shaft drive, advanced Telelever front suspension, and characteristic BMW build quality and touring ergonomics.

Key Features:

Powerful 1085cc Boxer-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics for long rides, integrated fairing with adjustable windscreen, shaft drive for low maintenance, optional ABS braking system, robust build quality, ample luggage capacity (integrated panniers and top case options).

Target Audience:

Enthusiast motorcycle owners who perform their own maintenance and repairs, as well as professional motorcycle mechanics seeking a reliable reference for the R1100RT.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Chassis, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Specifications

Page Count:

Estimated 400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

Updates:

This manual reflects the specifications and procedures for the 1996 model year, which is crucial for accurate repair and maintenance.

Source:

Likely derived from official BMW service literature or comprehensive third-party repair manual publications.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (including Boxer twin cylinder, oil cooling, valve adjustment), Fuel Injection (Motronic 2.2), Ignition System, Transmission (5-speed gearbox, clutch), Final Drive (shaft drive, Paralever), Suspension (Telelever front, Monolever rear), Braking System (ABS II or ABS-N), Electrical System (wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting), Cooling System (oil cooler), Exhaust System, Lubrication System, Frame, Bodywork (fairing, seat, luggage systems), Instrument Cluster, Controls.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush), Engine disassembly and reassembly, Clutch inspection and replacement, Gearbox inspection and repair, Final drive service, Suspension component servicing and replacement, Brake system bleeding and component replacement, Electrical system diagnostics and repair, Fuel system cleaning and component testing, Troubleshooting common problems, Torque specifications for critical fasteners, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical troubleshooting. Includes detailed exploded views and step-by-step repair instructions suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Tools:

While this manual is comprehensive, advanced diagnostics might benefit from BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., I-BUS) which are not typically covered in aftermarket manuals but are mentioned for context in professional repair.

Bodywork Repair:

Includes procedures for removing and refitting body panels, fairings, windscreens, and related trim components. Also covers seat removal and luggage system installation/disassembly.

Troubleshooting Guide:

Comprehensive troubleshooting section with symptom-based diagnostics for common issues, helping to pinpoint problems and their solutions efficiently.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams are provided, allowing for systematic tracing of electrical circuits to diagnose and repair issues with lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, and sensors.

Frame And Suspension:

Covers maintenance and repair of the steel-tube frame, Telelever front suspension (including fork seals, damping adjustments), and Paralever rear suspension (including shock absorber, linkage maintenance).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital scans suitable for printing. Includes clear diagrams, schematics, and photographs.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Fully searchable text within the PDF document, allowing for quick access to specific topics and troubleshooting information.

Illustrations:

Contains numerous detailed diagrams, exploded views, line drawings, and photographic illustrations to aid in understanding complex procedures and component identification.

Navigation:

Hyperlinked table of contents and index for easy navigation between sections and topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

BMW Boxer-twin, four-stroke, air-oil cooled, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 2 valves per cylinder.

Horsepower:

Approx. 90 HP (67 kW) @ 6750 RPM

Torque:

Approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 RPM

Displacement:

1085 cc (66.2 cubic inches)

Bore Stroke:

101 mm x 69.9 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic 2.2 electronic fuel injection with two throttle bodies.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with dual spark plugs per cylinder.

Lubrication:

Wet sump with oil cooler.

Cooling System:

Air-oil cooling with an engine-mounted oil cooler and fan assist for extreme conditions.

Valve Train:

Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) with pushrods operating rocker arms for each of the two valves per cylinder. Features self-adjusting hydraulic valve lifters.

Engine Management:

Motronic 2.2 engine management system, controlling fuel injection, ignition timing, and idle speed.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed sequential constant mesh gearbox.

Clutch:

Single dry plate clutch, diaphragm spring operated.

Final Drive:

Shaft drive via Paralever single-sided swingarm.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 inches)

Width:

Approx. 900 mm (35.4 inches) at widest point (mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 inches) at highest point (windscreen)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 inches)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 255 kg (562 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 276 kg (608 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 490 kg (1080 lbs)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gallons)

Reserve Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 liters (0.9 US gallons)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive standardized crash test ratings like cars)

Active Features:

Optional BMW Integral ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System), strong dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, responsive suspension.

Passive Features:

Robust frame construction, integrated fairing providing wind and weather protection.

Braking System Details:

Front: Dual 305mm discs with 4-piston calipers. Rear: Single 276mm disc with 2-piston caliper. Detailed procedures for pad replacement, caliper servicing, and bleeding.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic integrated dashboard with analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning lights. No advanced infotainment systems common in modern vehicles. Optional heated grips.

Driver Assistance:

Optional ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System) on most models. Integral ABS II (linked braking) introduced later in the model's lifecycle.

Connectivity:

N/A. Basic electrical systems for lighting, ignition, and instrumentation.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, taillight, and brake light.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Major services typically recommended every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. Includes oil and filter change, gearbox oil change, final drive oil change, brake fluid flush, spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter check/replacement, and valve clearance adjustment.

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 API SG or higher (check manual for specific BMW recommendations). Capacity: Approx. 4 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.

Gearbox Oil:

SAE 75W/90 GL-5 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts).

Final Drive Oil:

SAE 80W/90 GL-5 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 0.25 liters (0.26 US quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific ABS compatibility).

Coolant:

N/A (Air-oil cooled engine)

Known Issues:

Sticking throttle bodies, alternator brush wear, ABS system faults (especially early versions), clutch slave cylinder leaks, fuel pump relay issues, occasional fuel injector clogging. Proper maintenance as per the manual significantly mitigates these.

Oil Filter Part Number:

BMW Part Number: 11 42 1 450 040 (example, may vary)

Spark Plug Part Number:

NGK CR9EK (or equivalent, check manual for exact specification)

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications are provided for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle, including engine mounts, wheel hubs, brake caliper bolts, and suspension components.

Tire Information:

Recommended tire sizes and inflation pressures for front and rear wheels are specified to ensure optimal handling and tire life.

Battery Specifications:

Typically a 12V, 18Ah or 20Ah maintenance-free (AGM) battery. BMW Part Number: 61 21 2 344 257 (example).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history of producing high-quality, innovative motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-engine platform, durability, and touring capabilities. Founded in 1916, BMW has established a reputation for engineering excellence and rider-focused design.

Model Evolution:

The R1100RT was part of the R259 platform, which represented a significant modernization of BMW's boxer engine line-up, introducing four-valve heads, electronic fuel injection, and the new Telelever front suspension. It succeeded the R100RT and was eventually replaced by the R1150RT.

Production Years:

1995-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (Spandau Plant)

Model Significance:

The R1100RT marked a significant technological leap for BMW's touring line, consolidating the boxer engine's reliability with modern engineering and enhanced rider comfort.

Model Impact:

The R1100RT solidified BMW's position in the sport-touring segment, offering a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and technological sophistication that influenced subsequent touring motorcycle designs.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1996 model are scarce, the R1100RT was widely praised by motorcycle journalists and owners for its excellent touring capabilities, comfortable ride, and robust engineering, contributing to BMW's reputation as a top-tier touring motorcycle manufacturer.