Market Position:
The BMW R1150RT was positioned as a premium sport-touring motorcycle, offering a comfortable and capable platform for long-distance travel, often competing with models like the Honda ST1100/ST1300 and Yamaha FJR1300.
Competitive Analysis:
Distinguished by its boxer engine, shaft drive, and the pioneering BMW Telelever front suspension, the R1150RT offered a unique blend of character, stability, and rider comfort compared to its inline-four or V-twin competitors. Its robust build quality and extensive touring features set it apart.
Key Features:
Characterful 1130cc Boxer-Twin engine, smooth shaft drive, sophisticated Telelever front suspension for superior ride and handling, optional Integral ABS braking system, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding, integrated fairing and wind protection, ample luggage capacity.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Clutch, Drive Shaft, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (ABS II/Integral ABS), Electrical System, Bodywork, Fairing, Instruments, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Technical Data
Page Count:
Approx. 450-550 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical (Air/Oil Cooled Boxer Twin), Fuel Injection (Motronic 2.4), Ignition, Clutch (Hydraulic Dry Single Disc), Transmission (6-Speed), Final Drive (Shaft Drive), Front Suspension (Telelever), Rear Suspension (Paralever), Braking System (BMW Motorrad ABS II / Integral ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components, ECU), Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Panels, Fairing Assembly, Seats, Luggage Systems
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Piston Replacement, Valve Adjustment, Fuel System Diagnosis and Repair, Ignition Timing, Clutch Adjustment and Replacement, Transmission Servicing, Final Drive Oil Change, Suspension Component Servicing and Replacement, Brake Bleeding and Component Replacement, ABS System Troubleshooting, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair, Bodywork Panel Removal and Installation, Fairing Repair, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Usage
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic owner maintenance checks to full engine rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and suspension overhauls. Suitable for experienced home mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, air/oil-cooled, two-cylinder boxer engine
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, actuated by pushrods and rocker arms
Power Output:
95 hp (70 kW) at 7,250 rpm
Torque:
102 Nm (75 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm
Top Speed:
Approx. 195 km/h (121 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Tank Capacity:
22 liters (5.8 US gallons)
Fuel Consumption:
Approx. 5.5 - 6.5 L/100 km (36-43 mpg) depending on riding style
Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in) at windshield
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1487 mm (58.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 257 kg (567 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Weight Distribution:
Typically balanced for stability during touring.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable (Motorcycle safety ratings differ from automotive; focus is on engineering and rider aids)
Active Features:
BMW Motorrad ABS II / Integral ABS (optional on some models, standard on later ones) providing anti-lock braking on both wheels, linked brake system (Integral ABS). High-quality Brembo braking components.
Passive Features:
Sturdy chassis construction, integrated fairing for rider protection from elements, effective wind deflection, halogen headlights for excellent visibility, comfortable seating position reducing rider fatigue.
Infotainment Features:
Standard analogue tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for gear selection, clock, odometer, trip meters. Many models equipped with heated grips and optional radio/audio systems.
Driver Assistance:
Integral ABS (on equipped models) is a significant rider aid. The Telelever front suspension provides inherent stability and a compliant ride.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated smartphone connectivity or Bluetooth as standard. Models with optional radio may have basic audio controls.
Service Intervals:
Major service typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually. Includes oil change, filter change, spark plug inspection/replacement, valve adjustment, brake fluid replacement every 2 years, final drive oil change annually.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 API SG/SH/SJ motorcycle specific oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US quarts) with filter change
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 liter (1.1 US quarts)
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 gear oil
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.20 liters (0.21 US quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air/Oil cooled engine)
Common Issues:
Hall sensor failures (leading to stalling/no-start), clutch slave cylinder leaks, fuel pump issues, rear shock absorber wear, occasional ABS system faults, alternator bearing noise, paralever bearing wear.
Preventative Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and clean the Hall sensor connection, inspect clutch slave cylinder seal, maintain a clean fuel tank, consider upgrading rear shock for heavy touring, ensure proper ABS sensor cleaning.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history dating back to 1923, known for its engineering excellence, durable boxer engines, and innovation in motorcycle design, particularly in touring and adventure segments.
Model Evolution:
The R1150RT is an evolution of BMW's successful R1100RT and part of the R11xx series, which introduced the Telelever front suspension and significantly updated boxer engines. It represented a refinement of the sport-touring concept, offering more power and improved technology.
Production Years:
1996-2001 (as R1100RT, followed by R1150RT from 2001-2004)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
Recognitions:
While specific awards are not widely documented, the R1150RT consistently received praise from motorcycling publications for its touring comfort, stability, and engineering quality, solidifying BMW's reputation in the sport-touring segment.
Durability Ratings:
Generally considered very durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance, a hallmark of BMW touring motorcycles.
