Model:
R Series (R80, R90, R100)
Model Variants:
R80, R80/7, R80GS, R90/6, R90S, R100/7, R100GS, R100RS, R100RT, R100S, R100T
Model Years Covered:
Primarily 1989, but with extensive applicability to closely related model years and earlier/later iterations of the R Series airhead platform.
Engine Codes:
247 (Airhead Boxer Engine variants)
Market Position:
The BMW R80, R90, and R100 'airhead' series motorcycles are iconic for their robust engineering, distinctive boxer twin engines, and touring capabilities. This manual targets owners and mechanics of these classic machines.
Competitive Analysis:
Compared to contemporary Japanese motorcycles of the late 70s and 80s, BMW 'airheads' offered a unique blend of build quality, shaft drive convenience, and character. This manual provides the specialized knowledge required to maintain these European classics.
Key Features:
Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, detailed diagrams and illustrations, OEM-level technical specifications, troubleshooting guides tailored to the airhead platform.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive service, repair, and workshop procedures for BMW R80, R90, and R100 models.
Page Count:
Not specified in provided text, but assumed to be extensive for a full service manual.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely printed physical copy, potential for digital (PDF) availability depending on the seller.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission, Driveshaft, Final Drive, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Chassis, Bodywork, Wheels & Tires, Lubrication.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Engine Overhaul & Rebuild, Carburetor Tuning & Rebuild, Fuel Injection System Diagnostics (where applicable), Ignition System Troubleshooting, Clutch Replacement, Transmission Inspection & Repair, Final Drive Servicing, Fork Seal Replacement, Shock Absorber Servicing, Brake Pad & Disc Replacement, Wheel Bearing Service, Electrical Component Testing & Replacement, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications.
Technical Depth:
In-depth, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
File Format:
N/A (assuming physical manual unless otherwise specified by seller).
Print Quality:
High-quality technical printing, designed for workshop durability.
Binding Type:
Likely spiral-bound or saddle-stitched for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist workshop grime and oil.
Primary Engine:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer) engine.
Engine Displacement R80:
797.5 cc
Engine Displacement R90:
897.9 cc (R90/6), 900cc (R90S)
Engine Displacement R100:
979.5 cc (R100/7, R100S, R100T, R100RS, R100RT), 1000cc (R100GS)
Bore Stroke Typical:
Varies by model, e.g., R100: 94 mm x 70.7 mm
Compression Ratio Typical:
Approximately 8.5:1 to 9.5:1 depending on specific model and variant.
Horsepower Typical R80:
~50 hp @ 6500 rpm
Horsepower Typical R90:
~60 hp @ 6500 rpm (R90/6), ~65 hp @ 7000 rpm (R90S)
Horsepower Typical R100:
~65 hp @ 7000 rpm (R100/7, R100S), ~70 hp @ 7000 rpm (R100RS, R100RT, R100GS)
Torque Typical R100:
~75 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Fuel System Type:
Dual Carburetor (Bing, typically 32mm or 40mm depending on model) or Bosch LE-Jetronic Fuel Injection on some later R100 models (e.g., R100RT, R100GS).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON (Research Octane Number), or equivalent (e.g., 87 AKI in the US).
Carburetor Type Common:
Bing constant-vacuum diaphragm carburetors.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual, constant mesh gearbox.
Optional Transmission:
None (all R series airheads featured a 5-speed manual).
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch, operated hydraulically.
Drive System:
Shaft drive to the rear wheel.
Wheelbase Typical:
Approximately 1465 mm (57.7 inches), varies by model.
Seat Height Typical:
Approximately 780-820 mm (30.7-32.3 inches), varies by model and seat configuration.
Dry Weight Typical:
Approximately 190-220 kg (419-485 lbs), varies significantly by model (e.g., R80GS is heavier than R90/6).
Fuel Capacity Typical:
18-24 liters (4.75-6.3 US gallons), depending on tank size and model.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable (motorcycles are not rated by organizations like NHTSA in the same way as cars).
Active Features:
Effective dual-disc front braking system, single rear disc or drum brake (model dependent), robust frame construction.
Passive Features:
Engine as a stressed member of the chassis, traditional motorcycle safety considerations.
Infotainment Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily analog instrumentation with speedometer, tachometer, odometer, engine temperature gauge, and warning lights.
Driver Assistance Features:
None. Features focus on mechanical reliability and rider control.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles), or annually, as specified in the manual.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 10,000 - 20,000 km (6,000 - 12,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil (e.g., BMW Motorcraft, Castrol, Motul).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 - 2.5 liters (2.1 - 2.6 US quarts) with filter change.
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.5 liters (0.5 US quarts).
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil.
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.25 liters (0.26 US quarts).
Known Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from pushrod tubes and crankcase seals, potential for worn cam chain guides, timing chain wear, exhaust header pipe leaks at the cylinder head.
Known Issues Electrical:
Degradation of wiring insulation over time, rectifier/voltage regulator issues, starter motor solenoid problems.
Known Issues Transmission:
Notchiness in shifting, worn clutch plates, potential output shaft seal leaks.
Known Issues Suspension:
Worn fork seals, weak rear shock absorbers.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
BMW part numbers vary, but aftermarket equivalents like Mahle OC 5, K&N KN-164 are common.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
BMW part numbers vary, e.g., BMW 13 72 1 339 459.
Brand Heritage:
BMW motorcycles have a long and distinguished history, dating back to the 1920s, known for engineering excellence, reliability, and innovation, particularly in their boxer engine designs.
Model Evolution:
The R80, R90, and R100 series represent a significant evolution of BMW's air-cooled boxer engine platform, building upon earlier models like the R75/5 and R60/7. This 'airhead' generation refined the design with improved chassis, brakes, and engine performance, culminating in the 1989 models which benefited from years of development. The R80GS and R100GS models introduced the dual-purpose / adventure motorcycle segment.
Production Period Airhead Era:
The airhead boxer era spanned roughly from the late 1960s to the early 1990s, with the R80, R90, and R100 variants being prominent in the latter part of this period.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant).
Recognitions:
The BMW R80, R90, and R100 series are widely recognized for their durability, versatility, and enduring appeal, often lauded in motorcycle publications and enthusiast communities. They are considered modern classics and have won numerous awards in vintage motorcycle shows and categories.
Ratings:
Consistently receive high ratings from owners for reliability, build quality, and the unique riding experience.
