🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850 R850GS

Year:

1997

Engine Code Family:

M73

Chassis Code Family:

R259

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size touring/adventure motorcycle

Target Audience:

BMW motorcycle owners, independent repair shops, and DIY enthusiasts seeking professional-grade repair information.

Competitors:

Honda VFR800, Yamaha TDM850, Moto Guzzi California, Ducati ST2

Bike Platform:

Shares core architecture with the R1100 series but with a smaller displacement engine, offering a more accessible entry into BMW's boxer platform.

Gs Variant:

The 'GS' designation signifies its capability as a 'Gelände/Straße' (Gravel/Street) dual-purpose motorcycle, with features suited for both on-road touring and light off-road use.

Manual Value:

Provides authorized repair procedures, diagnostic information, and specifications, crucial for maintaining the value and performance of a BMW motorcycle.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All R850 R850GS variants for 1997

Engine Variants Covered:

All engine configurations for R850 R850GS

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels for R850 R850GS

Transmission Types Covered:

All transmission types for R850 R850GS

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 500-700 pages (typical for this era of BMW workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures for the boxer twin engine, including cylinder head, valve train, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft, connecting rods, timing chain, and lubrication system.

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of the Motronic engine management system, including fuel injection, ignition timing, idle control, and sensor diagnostics (e.g., TPS, crank position, O2 sensors).

Fuel System:

Service and troubleshooting of the fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, and fuel pressure regulator.

Exhaust System:

Installation, removal, and diagnosis of the exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if equipped), mufflers, and lambda sensors.

Cooling System:

Maintenance and repair of the oil cooler, oil filter, and associated plumbing. (Note: R850 series is primarily air/oil cooled).

Transmission:

Overhaul and troubleshooting of the 5-speed gearbox, including clutch operation, gear selection mechanism, and final drive unit.

Drivetrain:

Service of the driveshaft, universal joints, and rear drive bevel gear.

Suspension Front:

Detailed procedures for the Telelever front suspension, including fork seal replacement, damper service, and alignment.

Suspension Rear:

Service and adjustment of the Monolever rear swingarm and Paralever suspension, including shock absorber and linkage maintenance.

Brakes Front:

Service of the dual disc brakes, including caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid bleeding, master cylinder repair, and ABS system diagnostics (if applicable).

Brakes Rear:

Service of the single disc brake, including caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid bleeding, and master cylinder repair.

Wheels Tires:

Tire changing procedures, wheel bearing service, and spoke wheel maintenance.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of lighting, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery, fuses, and relays.

Instrumentation:

Diagnosis and repair of the instrument cluster, speedometer, tachometer, warning lights, and onboard computer.

Bodywork:

Disassembly and reassembly of body panels, fairings, seats, fuel tank, and fenders.

Chassis Frame:

Inspection and repair of the frame, subframe, and steering head bearings.

Controls:

Service and adjustment of throttle, clutch, and brake levers, and handlebar controls.

Preventive Maintenance:

Routine checks, lubrication, filter replacement, fluid changes, spark plug replacement, and valve clearance adjustments.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic trees and procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).

Major Repairs:

Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension overhauls, and electrical system repairs.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing individual parts and sub-assemblies.

Adjustments:

Correct adjustment procedures for clutch, throttle cables, brakes, and suspension settings.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of all critical torque values for fasteners and assembly components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and component overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine management, fuel injection, and potentially ABS systems, with wiring diagrams for pinpointing electrical faults.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams essential for diagnosing and repairing the motorcycle's electrical system.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, typically scanned from original factory manuals, offering clear text and diagrams. Searchable text is often included.

Scalability:

Printable at original size, allowing for clear reproduction of diagrams and schematics.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Manual Completeness:

Designed as a complete workshop manual, covering all aspects of maintenance and repair for the specified model year and variants.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)

Displacement:

848 cc (cubic centimeters)

Bore X Stroke:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-actuated with overhead camshafts (SOHC)

Power Output:

Approx. 80 HP (59 kW) at 7,500 rpm

Torque Output:

Approx. 79 Nm (58 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm

Top Speed:

Approx. 195 km/h (121 mph)

Induction:

Bosch Motronic 2.2 fuel injection system

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON

Fuel Capacity:

25 Liters (6.6 US Gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated

Final Drive:

Shaft drive with Monolever rear swingarm

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios are detailed in the manual, crucial for performance tuning and diagnostics.

Transmission Oil Spec:

Refer to manual for specific BMW-approved gear oil specifications (e.g., API GL-5).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,200 mm (86.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 920 mm (36.2 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1,340 mm (52.8 in) to windscreen

Dry Weight:

Approx. 213 kg (470 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 420 kg (926 lbs)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 207 kg (456 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Motorcycle safety is primarily rider-dependent; manual focuses on mechanical safety and system integrity.

ABS:

Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II system available on some models, detailed in manual.

Braking System:

Dual front disc, single rear disc with braided steel lines contribute to effective stopping power.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight and comprehensive taillight/turn signal setup for visibility.

Chassis Design:

Robust frame and suspension design for stable handling and rider control.

💡 Technology Features

Display:

Basic analog/digital instrument cluster displaying speed, RPM, fuel level, odometer, and warning lights. May include a clock and trip meter.

Audio:

N/A (No factory audio system)

ABS Availability:

Optional ABS II system. Manual details its operation and diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Port:

Likely features a proprietary diagnostic connector for Motronic system access, detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Manual will specify precise interval and oil type.

Valve Adjustment:

Recommended every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as per manual's detailed schedule.

Spark Plugs:

Replacement typically at 20,000-40,000 km intervals, depending on plug type. Manual specifies exact intervals and part numbers.

Engine Oil:

SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil with API SG or higher classification. Manual provides precise BMW recommendations and capacities.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify fluid change intervals and bleeding procedures.

Coolant:

N/A (Air/oil-cooled engine)

Final Drive Oil:

API GL-5 hypoid gear oil, viscosity grade to be specified in manual (e.g., 80W-90).

Common Problems:

Potential issues include wear in the swingarm pivot bearings, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and occasional issues with the ABS system if equipped. Fuel pump issues can also arise with age. Manual provides diagnostic steps for these.

Troubleshooting Guides:

The manual offers specific troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), a German manufacturer with a long history of motorcycle production dating back to the early 20th century.

Platform Introduction:

The R850 series was introduced as a slightly detuned and more accessible variant of the R1100 Boxer platform, designed to offer BMW quality and engineering at a more approachable price point and with a focus on everyday usability.

Gs Development:

The GS line has become a flagship for BMW, known for its adventure-touring capabilities, with the R850GS serving as an earlier iteration of this popular concept.

Production Period:

The R850GS was produced through the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

Recognized for its solid build quality, comfortable ride, and robust engineering characteristic of BMW motorcycles.

Review Sentiment:

Generally well-regarded for its touring comfort and practicality, though often compared to its larger R1100 sibling for outright performance.