Positioning:
The BMW R 1150 R positioned itself as a capable and refined roadster, combining the character of BMW's boxer engine with a more modern and accessible platform compared to its fully faired counterparts. It appealed to riders seeking versatility for commuting, touring, and spirited riding.
Competitors:
Competed with other large-displacement naked bikes and sport-touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Ducati (Monster series), Triumph (Speed Triple), Yamaha (FZ1), and Honda (CB1100).
Engine Layout:
Air/oil-cooled, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder 'Boxer' engine
Drive System:
Shaft drive (Paralever system on rear)
Braking Technology:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Engine:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, lubrication system, oil pump, cooling system (air-cooled design with oil cooling components)
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, fuel tank
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, final drive (Paralever shaft drive system), universal joint, differential
Electrical System:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECU diagnostics
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork (telescopic, potentially with adjustments), rear suspension (Monolever or Paralever variations depending on specific R1150R sub-models), wheel bearings, steering head bearings
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (likely Brembo), brake calipers, brake discs, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, fenders, exhaust system, mounting hardware
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, brake pad inspection and replacement, drive shaft lubrication, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common engine, electrical, and mechanical faults, error code interpretation (for EFI models)
Component Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for dismantling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components like the engine, transmission, and suspension
Calibration And Adjustment:
Throttle cable adjustment, idle speed adjustment, clutch lever free play, suspension adjustments
Diagnostic Procedures:
Fault finding for electronic fuel injection, ignition, and ABS systems
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Target Audience:
Professional motorcycle technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and serious enthusiasts
Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer), DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Cooling System:
Air/oil-cooled
Horsepower Peak:
Approximately 95 hp @ 7,250 rpm
Torque Peak:
Approximately 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic engine management
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad Recommended: SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (refer to manual for specific BMW approval)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change
Display:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD multi-function display (fuel level, gear indicator, clock, trip meters)
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, which links front and rear brakes operationally
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostic capabilities via the Motronic system, often requiring specialized BMW diagnostic tools for full access.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 20W-50 (API SG or higher, BMW approved)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW approval and type, especially if ABS is fitted)
Final Drive Oil Grade:
SAE 90 Hypoid Gear Oil (API GL-5, BMW approved)
Common Problems:
Potential for clutch slave cylinder leaks, charging system issues (alternator or voltage regulator), fuel pump reliability, and occasional ABS sensor faults. The Paralever boot can degrade, requiring replacement to protect the universal joint.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of clutch slave cylinder, checking battery terminals and charging system output, keeping fuel filter clean, and inspecting Paralever boot are key preventative measures.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, particularly with its boxer-twin engine platform, which dates back to the 1920s. This heritage signifies reliability, durability, and distinct character.
Predecessors:
Directly evolved from the R 1100 R and R 1150 GS models, incorporating refinements and updates to the boxer engine and chassis.
Generation:
Part of the 'oilhead' boxer generation (R259) that began with the R1100 series.
Production Years:
1999-2006 (approximate, exact start/end dates may vary by market)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
