🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R1150GS

Year:

1999-2003

Model Code:

R1150GS (often associated with chassis codes starting with '0414' for the R1150GS)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The R1150GS is a legendary adventure touring motorcycle, renowned for its versatility, durability, and long-distance capabilities. This manual positions itself as the essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair this iconic machine.

Competitive Analysis:

In its era, the R1150GS competed with other large-displacement adventure touring bikes, offering a unique blend of BMW's boxer-twin engine character, robust build quality, and extensive factory support. This manual provides factory-level detail often sought after compared to less comprehensive aftermarket guides.

Key Features:

Complete coverage of all R1150GS models/engines, detailed step-by-step instructions, extensive use of illustrations and diagrams, printable format for workshop use, and digital accessibility across multiple platforms.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and engines within the 1999-2003 R1150GS range. Comprehensive coverage from general table of contents to specific sections.

Page Count:

Not explicitly stated, but described as '100 percent COMPLETE and INTACT,' implying a full workshop manual.

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission, drivetrain, chassis, suspension (front and rear), brakes (hydraulic and ABS if applicable), electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), bodywork, controls, and general maintenance.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair procedures for all major components, disassembly and reassembly instructions, torque specifications, adjustments, electrical component testing, and potentially component upgrades or modifications.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive A-Z repair procedures, detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, and photos guide through every service repair procedure, suitable for both novice and experienced mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable pages with clear illustrations, diagrams, and photos.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)

Bore X Stroke:

101 mm x 70.5 mm

Displacement:

1130 cc

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower:

95 hp (70 kW) at 7,250 rpm (approximate, depending on specific model variant and emissions regulations)

Torque:

98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 or similar

Ignition System:

Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with dual spark plugs per cylinder

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual for exact specification and check procedure)

Recommended Oil Grade:

SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting BMW specifications (refer to manual for exact API/JASO ratings and BMW specific approvals like BMW Motor Oil Special)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed manual gearbox

Optional Transmission:

Not applicable for this model year, standard gearbox.

Clutch:

Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically actuated

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.46, 2nd: 2.48, 3rd: 1.95, 4th: 1.56, 5th: 1.28, 6th: 1.04)

Final Drive:

Shaft drive via BMW's Paralever single-sided swingarm

Transmission Oil Type:

GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (refer to manual for precise specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 920 mm (36.2 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) to top of windscreen

Dry Weight:

Approx. 230 kg (507 lbs)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 250 kg (551 lbs) (with all fluids and standard equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Refer to manual, typically around 450-480 kg (992-1058 lbs)

Front Tire Size:

90/90-21 54V

Rear Tire Size:

140/80 R17 69Q

Front Wheel:

21 x 1.85 inch (spoked)

Rear Wheel:

17 x 4.00 inch (spoked)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Not applicable in the same way as automotive crash test ratings. Focus is on mechanical integrity and rider safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), powerful hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, responsive suspension.

Passive Safety Features:

Sturdy frame construction, integrated crash protection (engine guards, often standard or optional), protective fairing and windscreen.

Front Brakes:

Dual 305 mm (12.0 in) discs, four-piston calipers (or dual disc with integral ABS system)

Rear Brakes:

Single 276 mm (10.9 in) disc, double-piston caliper (often linked to front brake lever and optional ABS)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic, focused on function. May include an analog tachometer and speedometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, and indicator lights. Optional BMW radio or GPS mounting points.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Limited to basic vehicle electrical system connections.

Headlight Type:

Halogen H4 bulb

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact BMW recommendations).

Major Service Interval:

Valve clearance checks and adjustments, spark plug replacement typically around 20,000 km (12,500 miles) or as specified (refer to manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific BMW approval and type, especially if ABS is fitted)

Coolant Type:

BMW approved ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (typically blue or green, refer to manual for exact specification and mixture ratio).

Common Issues:

Spline lubrication on driveshaft and transmission output shaft (can lead to clunking or failure if neglected), embrittlement of fuel lines (risk of leaks), potential starter motor issues, ABS sensor wear, heating element failure in earlier heated grips.

Oil Filter Part Number:

BMW Part No. 11 42 1 450 675 (commonly used for this model). Aftermarket equivalents from Mahle, Hiflofiltro, etc., are available.

Air Filter Part Number:

BMW Part No. 13 72 1 452 799 (or equivalent). Check manual for exact part number and replacement procedure.

Fuel Tank Capacity:

20 liters (5.3 US gal), including a 4-liter reserve

Recommended Spark Plugs:

NGK CR9EK or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and gap setting).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing robust, reliable motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engine platform and pioneering adventure touring segment with the original R80GS.

Model Evolution:

The R1150GS is the successor to the highly successful R1100GS, featuring a larger displacement engine, improved chassis dynamics, and a more powerful braking system. It was a significant step forward in BMW's GS lineage, solidifying its position as a class leader.

Production Years:

1999-2003 (This specific manual covers this range)

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad factory)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The R1150GS model line received numerous accolades and 'Best Adventure Bike' awards from motorcycle publications worldwide throughout its production run for its all-around capability and reliability.

Certifications:

CE marking for European market, EPA compliance for North American market (depending on region of sale). The manual itself is a professionally produced technical document, not a certified product.