Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed information for maintenance and repair of BMW R1100RT and R1100RS models.
Competitors:
Honda ST1100 Pan European, Yamaha FJ1200, Kawasaki GTR1000.
Design Philosophy:
German engineering focused on rider comfort (RT) and sporty touring (RS), utilizing BMW's boxer-twin engine and innovative suspension systems.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2/2.4), ignition system, exhaust system, oil system, lubrication, cooling (oil cooler).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox (5-speed), clutch operation, final drive (single-sided swingarm), driveshaft, universal joints.
Chassis Suspension:
Frame, front suspension (Telelever), rear suspension (Monolever with adjustable shock absorber), steering system, wheel bearings, wheel balancing.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (including ABS II), brake fluid bleeding, caliper overhaul, disc replacement, master cylinder.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery, lighting, horn, instrumentation, Motronic ECU diagnostics.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, instrument panel, luggage systems (RT model), body panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, valve clearance adjustment, brake pad replacement, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical system troubleshooting.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine component replacement, gearbox repair, suspension component overhaul, brake system rebuilding, electrical component repair.
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Extensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and electrical system schematics.
Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Cooling System:
Air/Oil Cooled
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, overhead camshaft (SOHC), pushrod actuated.
Horsepower Hp:
90 hp @ 6750 rpm (approx.)
Torque Lb-Ft:
95 lb-ft @ 5250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2 or 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI)
Oil Type:
API SG, JASO MA, SAE 20W-50 (check manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature)
Oil Capacity Liters:
4.0 L (with filter change)
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring operated
Type:
N/A (No automatic transmission offered)
Final Drive:
Shaft drive via single-sided swingarm (Paralever)
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (check manual for specific recommendations)
Final Drive Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (check manual for specific recommendations)
Wheelbase Mm:
1487 mm (approx.)
Seat Height Mm:
805 mm (R1100RT, adjustable)
Ground Clearance Mm:
120 mm (approx.)
Dry Weight Kg:
247 kg (R1100RT) / 235 kg (R1100RS) (approx.)
Fuel Tank Capacity Liters:
25 L (including 3L reserve)
Safety Standards:
Complies with relevant European and international motorcycle safety standards.
Braking ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Suspension System:
Telelever front suspension and Monolever rear suspension designed for stability and handling.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, integrated turn signals, LED taillight.
Fairing Aerodynamics:
Aerodynamic fairing (RT) and windscreen (RS) for rider protection and reduced fatigue.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD display for fuel level, gear indicator, odometer, trip meter, clock, and warning lights.
ABS:
BMW Motorrad ABS II (optional), providing enhanced braking safety.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic connector for Motronic system reading and parameter adjustment.
Ergonomics:
Adjustable handlebars and seat (RT), integrated wind protection, designed for long-distance comfort.
Oil Change Km:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Km:
Every 20,000 km (or as per manual recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Every 20,000 km (check manual for specific type and gap).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (check manual for ABS system compatibility).
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air/Oil cooled, no coolant)
Common Problems:
Oil leaks from seals (e.g., timing cover, transmission output shaft), ABS system issues (pump, modulator), clutch slave cylinder leaks, starter sprigs/brushes wear.
Recommended Checks:
Regular inspection of wiring harness for chafing, checking fuel line integrity, ensuring proper operation of the fuel pump relay.
Brand Focus:
BMW Motorrad, renowned for engineering excellence, touring capabilities, and boxer-twin engines since the mid-20th century.
Predecessor:
BMW R100RT, R100RS models.
Introduction Period:
Mid-1990s (R1100 series introduced in 1993).
Key Innovations:
Introduction of the Telelever front suspension and Monolever rear suspension, updated fuel-injected boxer engine, and integrated ABS.
Production Years:
Approximately 1994-2000.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany.
Market Reputation:
Highly regarded for touring capability, durability, and German engineering. Often praised for its comfortable ride and competent handling, especially the RT model.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, characteristic of BMW's robust engineering.