Market Positioning:
The BMW R850R and R1100R were positioned as versatile, comfortable, and sporty roadsters, targeting riders seeking a blend of performance, touring capability, and BMW's characteristic build quality and engineering. They competed against other European and Japanese naked bikes of the era.
Key Competitors:
Ducati Monster series, Triumph Bonneville/Speed Triple, Moto Guzzi California, Honda CB series, Yamaha FZR/FZ series.
Unique Selling Points:
Boxer-twin engine, Telelever front suspension, Monolever rear drive, robust build, ABS availability, comfortable ergonomics for longer rides.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod replacement, crankshaft service, valve timing and adjustment, lubrication system, cooling system (oil cooling), fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Gearbox service, clutch replacement, final drive (driveshaft and rear differential), gear shifting mechanism.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery and charging system, starter motor, ignition coils, lighting system, instrument cluster, ABS (if equipped), electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Chassis Suspension Brakes:
Front fork (Telelever) overhaul and adjustment, rear suspension (Monolever) service, wheel and tire maintenance, brake system (hydraulic, ABS components), steering head bearings.
Bodywork Fittings:
Body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fairings, fairing components, exhaust system mounting.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant checks, drive shaft lubrication, valve clearance checks.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical fault diagnosis and repair, fuel system troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Technical Depth:
Detailed, professional level covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic procedures, and component testing.
Engine Type R850:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, Boxer-twin
Engine Type R1100:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, Boxer-twin
Bore Stroke R850:
82.5 mm x 80 mm
Bore Stroke R1100:
99 mm x 70.5 mm
Displacement R850:
848 cc
Displacement R1100:
1085 cc
Compression Ratio R850:
10.0:1
Compression Ratio R1100:
10.1:1
Horsepower R850:
~70 HP (51 kW) at 7500 rpm
Horsepower R1100:
~90 HP (66 kW) at 7250 rpm
Torque R850:
~77 Nm (57 lb-ft) at 5500 rpm
Torque R1100:
~98 Nm (72 lb-ft) at 5250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 recommended (refer to manual for exact spec)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to traffic laws. ABS was an optional safety feature on these models.
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), responsive braking system, Telelever front suspension for stability.
Passive Safety Features:
Robust frame construction, rider protection via fairing components (if equipped), standard lighting.
Infotainment Features:
N/A (Motorcycles of this era did not feature extensive infotainment systems. Standard instrument cluster with speedometer, tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge, warning lights.)
Driver Assistance Systems:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific details.
Valve Check Interval:
Typically every 20,000 km. Refer to manual for precise interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 20,000-40,000 km depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Capacity:
~4.0 liters (with filter change, dry fill)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Gearbox Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual)
Final Drive Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (refer to manual)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, driveshaft universal joint (U-joint) wear, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, ABS sensor issues (if equipped), fuel pump.
Engine Specific Notes:
While generally robust, ensure regular valve checks and oil changes. The oil cooler lines can sometimes develop leaks.
Bmw Motorrad Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable and innovative motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engine configuration, shaft drive, and engineering prowess dating back to the early 20th century.
R Series Evolution:
The R850R and R1100R are part of BMW's successful air-cooled boxer-twin roadster lineage, evolving from earlier R100 models. The introduction of the 1100cc engine and the Telelever front suspension marked a significant technological advancement for the brand in this segment.
Production Period:
The R1100R was produced from 1994 to 2001, and the R850R was introduced later and produced concurrently or slightly longer, offering a more accessible displacement and price point.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
Industry Recognition:
The R1100R and R850R were well-regarded in their time for their engineering, comfort, and performance, contributing to BMW's reputation for quality motorcycles. Specific awards are not as prominently documented as car awards but were generally considered strong contenders in the roadster segment.
Long Term Reliability Perception:
Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to their build quality.