Segment:
Adventure Touring / Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and understand their BMW R850GS.
Competitors 1996:
Honda Transalp, Yamaha TDM, Kawasaki KLR650
Bike Philosophy:
Versatile, reliable, shaft-driven boxer twin ideal for touring and light off-road use.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with detailed technical knowledge for self-sufficiency and cost-effective maintenance.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service and Repair
Included Sections:
Engine, Transmission, Chassis, Electrical, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, printable)
Powertrain:
Engine, Clutch, Gearbox, Final Drive
Chassis:
Suspension (Front Telelever, Rear Monolever), Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Battery, Charging System, Starter Motor, ECU Functions
Bodywork:
Fairings, Seat, Fuel Tank, Body Panels, Fairing Components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Chain Adjustment (if applicable), Spark Plug Service, Air Filter Service
Major Repairs:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Overhaul, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW specific tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic checks to full engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. May be searchable.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.
Binding:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical binding)
Paper:
N/A (Digital format implies no physical paper)
Configuration:
Horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower Est:
70 hp @ 7,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
77 Nm @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 Liters (approx.)
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, warning lights.
ABS Availability:
Optional ABS system, a significant safety feature for its era.
Diagnostic Port:
Access to diagnostic data via BMW's proprietary diagnostic system (requires specific tools).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first)
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (includes valve adjustment, spark plugs)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (Refer to manual for specific BMW approval and capacity)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Refer to manual for exact specification)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, spark plug cap issues, alternator brushes, rear shock absorber (depending on mileage/usage)
Electrical Concerns:
Wiring harness integrity, voltage regulator potential issues
Engine Specifics:
Potential for oil consumption on higher mileage units, timing chain tensioner wear.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Predecessors:
BMW R80, R80GS
Successor Lineage:
BMW R1100GS, R1150GS, R1200GS series
Production Years:
1996-2000 (for R850GS)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
Brand Reputation:
BMW is renowned for engineering quality, durability, and rider comfort in its touring motorcycles.
User Reviews General:
Generally praised for its comfortable ride, robust engine, and suitability for long-distance travel.
Emissions:
Meets European emissions standards of the time; manual will detail specific emission control system maintenance.
