Motorcycle Segment:
Iconic touring and sport-touring motorcycles, known for shaft drive, boxer engines, and durability.
Competitors:
Honda GL series, Yamaha XS models, Kawasaki Z series (though often shaft-drive competition was limited in this specific niche).
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (boxer) engine.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, eliminating chain maintenance.
Reliability:
Renowned for robust engineering and longevity when properly maintained.
Touring Capability:
Models like the R100RT and RS were designed for long-distance touring with fairings and comfortable ergonomics.
Supported Models:
BMW R80, R90, R100 series motorcycles
Supported Years:
1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Estimated Pages:
700-1000 (typical for comprehensive WSMs of this era, actual may vary)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual (WSM)
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, overhaul, diagnostics, troubleshooting of air-cooled boxer twin engines (e.g., R80, R90/6, R100/7, R100RS, R100RT, R100GS, R100R)
Transmission:
5-speed gearbox: removal, disassembly, reassembly, lubrication, troubleshooting, common wear parts
Drivetrain:
Clutch (single dry plate), driveshaft, bevel gear drive unit: maintenance, inspection, repair
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Bing 32/40/48mm) overhaul, adjustment, synchronization; fuel tank maintenance, fuel lines
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition systems (breakerless), ignition timing, component testing, spark plugs
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery maintenance, lighting, starter motor, horn, instrumentation
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic systems, fluid replacement, bleeding, caliper/master cylinder overhaul
Suspension:
Front telescopic forks (e.g., /7 series, Monolever, Paralever), rear swingarm, shock absorbers: maintenance, fluid changes, seal replacement, adjustment
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement, spoke wheel care
Frame Chassis:
Frame inspection, headstock bearing maintenance, general chassis integrity
Bodywork:
Fairings (e.g., RS, RT models), fuel tank, seat, fenders: removal, installation, minor repair considerations
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, valve clearance adjustment, spark plug replacement, drive shaft lubrication, brake checks, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking issues
Engine Rebuild:
Piston removal/installation, cylinder honing, crankshaft inspection, bearing replacement, gasket renewal
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing stator coils, regulator, ignition module, starter solenoid, wiring harness continuity
Carburetor Tuning:
Synchronization of dual carburetors, idle speed and mixture adjustment
Brake System Overhaul:
Seal replacement in master cylinders and calipers, brake line flushing and bleeding procedures
Suspension Servicing:
Fork oil replacement, seal head replacement, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for home mechanics and professional technicians. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by model (e.g., R80: 82.5mm x 74.5mm; R100: 94mm x 70.7mm)
Displacement:
Typically 798cc (R80), 971cc-999cc (R90/R100 variants)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by model (e.g., 8.5:1 to 9.5:1)
Valve Train:
OHV, two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Varies by model (e.g., R80: ~50-55 hp; R100: ~65-70 hp)
Torque:
Varies by model (e.g., R80: ~60 Nm; R100: ~75 Nm)
Carburetors:
Typically dual Bing constant-velocity carburetors (e.g., Bing 32/40/48mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 RON or higher, though leaded was common in earlier years)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km or annually. Manual specifies exact interval and oil type.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 10,000 - 20,000 km. Critical for performance and longevity.
Transmission Oil Change:
Typically every 20,000 - 40,000 km. Manual specifies interval and lubricant grade.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 recommended (check manual for specific recommendations based on climate).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 for older systems if specified). Regular flushing is crucial.
Fork Oil Type:
Type F automatic transmission fluid or specific motorcycle fork oil, with appropriate viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 5W or 10W).
Common Wear Items:
Valve guide wear, clutch wear, output shaft seal leaks, aging electrical connectors, output shaft splines (lubrication critical), starter clutch issues, swingarm bearing wear.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in wiring connectors, particularly around the ignition switch and rectifier wiring. Diode board issues on older models.
Engine Mounts:
Rubber engine mounts can degrade over time, affecting vibration isolation.
Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and shaft drive.
R Series Development:
The R80, R90, and R100 models represent the evolution of BMW's air-cooled boxer platform, starting from the /5 series and progressing through /6, /7, R45/65, R80/100GS, and R100R variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin-Spandau, Germany
Key Variants Covered:
R80/7, R80G/S, R80ST, R80GS, R80R, R90/6, R90S, R100/7, R100S, R100CS, R100RS, R100RT, R100GS, R100R