🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850R / R850C

Year:

1999

Engine Code:

M254 (Boxer Twin)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

The BMW R850R/R850C of 1999 occupied the sport-touring and cruiser segments, respectively, known for their distinctive boxer-twin engines and premium build quality.

Competitors:

Competed with models from Honda (ST series, Shadow series), Yamaha (Virago series), Kawasaki (Vulcan series), and Moto Guzzi in their respective segments.

Bike Features:

Characterized by BMW's air-cooled, two-valve boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics, and robust construction.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Description:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance instructions for the 1999 BMW R850R and R850C models.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 300 pages (typical for this era's BMW workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely PDF (digital download), but could also be available in printed format.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Clutch, Driveline, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Chassis, Bodywork, Instruments, Controls, Lubrication, Cooling.

Procedures:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, component removal and installation, detailed repair procedures, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnosis, brake system servicing, suspension adjustments, torque specifications.

Depth:

In-depth technical detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and text.

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear, legible text and sharp diagrams (if applicable).

Binding:

Professional binding (e.g., spiral-bound or perfect-bound) for ease of use in workshop environments (if printed).

Paper Quality:

Durable, oil-resistant paper stock suitable for workshop conditions (if printed).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer).

Displacement:

848 cc (51.7 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (3.54 in x 2.60 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 70 HP (52 kW) @ 7250 RPM

Torque:

Approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5500 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON (87 AKI).

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Motronic).

Cooling Method:

Air-cooled with oil cooling via an integrated oil cooler in the engine block.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US qt) without filter change; 3.3 liters (3.5 US qt) with filter change.

Recommended Oil:

SAE 15W-50 API SG/SH or similar (check manual for exact BMW specification).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox.

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this model.

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive to the rear wheel.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch, operated hydraulically.

Gearbox Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (check manual for exact BMW specification).

Gearbox Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.25 liters (0.26 US qt) (check manual for exact capacity).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Variable by model variant (R850R vs R850C), refer to specific model data. Approx. 2,170 mm (85.4 in) for R850R.

Width:

Variable by model variant. Approx. 800 mm (31.5 in) for R850R.

Height:

Variable by model variant. Approx. 1,250 mm (49.2 in) for R850R.

Dry Weight:

Approx. 213 kg (470 lbs) for R850R.

Wet Weight:

Approx. 231 kg (509 lbs) for R850R (with fluids).

Load Capacity:

Typically around 200 kg (440 lbs), including rider and luggage (refer to owner's manual).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 20 liters (5.3 US gal).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive formal crash test ratings like cars).

Braking System:

BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Optional feature on some 1999 models, standard on others). Front: Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers. Rear: Single 276 mm disc with 2-piston caliper.

Suspension Features:

Front: Telescopic fork, Marzocchi, 40 mm diameter. Rear: BMW Paralever single-sided swingarm with monoshock absorber.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight, and turn signals.

Controls:

Handlebar-mounted controls, integrated instrumentation.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic instrumentation: Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel Gauge, Odometer, Trip Meter. No advanced infotainment systems typical of modern vehicles.

ABS:

Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS system (early generation), which links front and rear brakes.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).

Diagnostic Tools:

The manual will detail diagnostic procedures using basic tools and potentially specific BMW diagnostic interfaces of the era, focusing on the Motronic system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact mileage).

Major Service Interval:

Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) for valve adjustments, spark plug replacement, and general inspection (check manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 HP for ABS models, check manual).

Coolant Type:

N/A (Air-cooled engine).

Common Problems:

Potential issues include wear on the final drive splines, early generation ABS system faults, occasional electrical connection issues, and clutch slave cylinder leaks. The manual would provide diagnostic procedures for these.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Typical BMW oil filter part number (e.g., 11 42 1 458 166 - verify in manual).

Air Filter Part Number:

Typical BMW air filter part number (e.g., 13 72 1 457 499 - verify in manual).

Spark Plug Type:

Typically NGK or equivalent, with specific heat range (e.g., NGK CR9EK - verify in manual).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:

BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the early 20th century, renowned for engineering excellence and innovation, particularly with its boxer engines.

R Series Evolution:

The R850R/C is part of the R series lineage, which evolved from the original R32. The R850 models were introduced as a more accessible and slightly less powerful alternative to the R1100/R1150 series, offering a balance of performance and ease of handling.

Production Period:

The R850R/C was produced from approximately 1995 through 2006. The 1999 model year represents a mid-cycle iteration.

Factory Location:

Germany (primarily Berlin-Spandau plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Awards:

While specific awards for the R850R/C are not widely publicized, BMW motorcycles of this era were consistently recognized for their build quality, reliability, and touring capabilities.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for build quality and longevity, though early ABS systems could be a point of contention for some owners.

Certification Standards:

Complied with relevant European and international motorcycle safety and emissions standards for its production year.