Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
BMW R850C/R1200C Owners, Independent Workshops, Motorcycle Enthusiasts
Positioning:
The R850C and R1200C offered a distinctively European cruiser experience, differentiating from American V-twins with their boxer engine layout and handling characteristics.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder boxer engine
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, providing low maintenance and clean aesthetics
Styling:
Classic cruiser styling with BMW's distinctive design cues
Engine:
BMW Boxer Twin Engine Overhaul, Tuning, Components
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System (K-Jetronic/Motronic), Fuel Pump, Injectors, Filters
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System, Coil Packs, Spark Plugs
Transmission:
Gearbox Service, Clutch Assembly, Final Drive (Shaft Drive)
Brakes:
ABS (where applicable), Brake Calipers, Discs, Lines, Master Cylinder
Suspension:
Front Fork (Telelever/Conventional), Rear Monolever Shock Absorber, Adjustments
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Battery, Charging System, Starter Motor, ECU
Bodywork And Chassis:
Frame, Fairings, Seat, Fuel Tank, Body Panels
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Valve Adjustments, Spark Plug Service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Codes, Common Faults, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Component Removal and Installation, Reassembly Instructions
Diagnostics:
Electrical System Testing, Fuel System Pressure Tests
Special Tools:
Identification and Usage of BMW Specific Tools
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic servicing to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Searchability:
Searchable text content for efficient information retrieval
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans and original manufacturer diagrams
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, wiring schematics, and step-by-step repair photos
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed twin-cylinder, four-stroke, air/oil-cooled
R850C Displacement:
848 cc (51.7 cu in)
R1200C Displacement:
1170 cc (71.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke R850C:
90 mm x 66 mm (3.54 in x 2.60 in)
Bore X Stroke R1200C:
101 mm x 73 mm (3.98 in x 2.87 in)
R850C Horsepower:
Approx. 70 hp @ 7500 rpm
R1200C Horsepower:
Approx. 100 hp @ 7500 rpm
R850C Torque:
Approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm
R1200C Torque:
Approx. 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON recommended)
Configuration:
Overhead camshaft (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder
R850C Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
R1200C Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
R850C Width:
Approx. 830 mm (32.7 in) at handlebars
R1200C Width:
Approx. 830 mm (32.7 in) at handlebars
R850C Height:
Approx. 1080 mm (42.5 in) at seat
R1200C Height:
Approx. 1080 mm (42.5 in) at seat
R850C Dry Weight:
Approx. 216 kg (476 lbs)
R1200C Dry Weight:
Approx. 227 kg (500 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 17.5 Liters (4.6 US gal)
Crash Testing:
Motorcycle safety is primarily focused on rider protection and dynamic stability rather than standardized crash test ratings.
ABS:
Optional Integral ABS on R1200C models provides enhanced braking control.
Suspension Design:
Telelever front suspension (on some R1200C variants) offers improved stability and feedback.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability and rider confidence.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (specific BMW recommendations apply)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 Liters (3.2 US qt) with filter change
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.9 Liters (0.95 US qt)
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 75W-140 API GL-5
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.25 Liters (0.26 US qt)
Transmission Shifting:
Occasional stiffness or false neutrals can occur with high mileage; requires proper lubrication and adjustment.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on connectors, especially around the battery and starter, can lead to starting issues.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models may have had less robust fuel pumps; replacement with updated units is recommended if experiencing issues.
Rear Shock ABSorber:
Original rear shock absorber may lose damping effectiveness over time; rebuild or replacement is a common upgrade.
Bmw Motorrad Legacy:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of innovation and robust engineering, dating back to the early 20th century. Known for boxer engines, shaft drive, and touring capabilities.
R Series Cruisers:
The R850C and R1200C represented BMW's foray into the cruiser market, aiming to blend their engineering prowess with the relaxed styling and riding position of a cruiser.
R850C Production Years:
1997 - 2006
R1200C Production Years:
1997 - 2004
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
