Segment:
Mid-size touring/dual-sport motorcycle segment.
Brand Loyalty:
Appeals to owners valuing BMW's engineering, reliability, and Boxer engine character.
Competitors:
Competed with models from Ducati, Honda, Yamaha, and Moto Guzzi in the adventure and sport-touring categories.
Engine Layout:
Air/oil-cooled, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer) engine, a BMW hallmark.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive for low maintenance and clean operation.
Suspension:
Telelever front suspension (R850R) or traditional telescopic forks (R850GS) offering stable handling and ride comfort.
Powertrain:
Engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Gearbox service, clutch operation, final drive maintenance.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front and rear forks, shock absorbers), steering system, wheels, tires.
Brakes:
Brake system maintenance, hydraulic lines, ABS (if equipped), rotor and pad replacement.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, ignition, starter, control units.
Bodywork:
Fairings, seating, fuel tank, body panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacement, lubrication points.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding guides.
Diagnostics:
Information on diagnostic codes and testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage suitable for both home mechanics and professional technicians, including detailed torque specifications and component clearances.
Type:
Air/oil-cooled, 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:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod-operated overhead valves (OHV)
Power Output:
Approximately 70 hp (51 kW) @ 7500 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by market/region)
Torque:
Approximately 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by market/region)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.2 electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Capacity:
18 Liters (4.75 US gal)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 Liters (3.17 US qt) with filter change
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Clutch:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring clutch
Gear Ratios:
Manual will contain specific gear ratios for each speed.
Transmission Oil:
Refer to manual for specific lubricant type and capacity (typically SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for final drive).
Length:
Varies slightly between R850R and R850GS; manual contains exact dimensions.
Width:
Varies slightly between R850R and R850GS; manual contains exact dimensions.
Height:
Varies slightly between R850R and R850GS; manual contains exact dimensions.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 210 kg (463 lbs) for R850R, slightly more for R850GS.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Manual will specify GVWR.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are not standardized like cars; focus is on design and component integrity).
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS II system available on some models within this range.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake. Specific caliper and rotor specs in manual.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, incandescent indicators.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame designed for stability and rider feedback.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic instrumentation typical for the era; no integrated infotainment systems).
ABS Availability:
Optional ABS II system available, detailed in the manual.
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights.
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Major Service:
Refer to manual for detailed major service intervals (e.g., valve clearance checks, spark plug replacement, gearbox oil change) which are often around 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Shaft Drive Service:
Regular inspection and lubrication of the final drive spline is crucial; manual provides specific intervals.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid (manual will specify for ABS systems if equipped).
Final Drive Oil Spec:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil is common, but manual is definitive.
Typical Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fuel injector cleaning, spark plug replacement, rear shock absorber lifespan.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, aged wiring can sometimes develop issues; manual provides diagnostic guides.
Fuel Pump:
Occasional fuel pump issues can arise, diagnosis covered in manual.
Heritage:
BMW's long-standing tradition of producing robust, reliable motorcycles, particularly known for their Boxer engine and shaft drive systems.
Development:
The R850 series was developed as a more accessible alternative to the larger R1100/R1150 models, offering similar BMW characteristics in a slightly smaller displacement package.
Differences Gs R:
The R850GS typically featured longer travel suspension, spoked wheels, and a higher handlebar position compared to the R850R's more street-oriented setup with cast wheels and Telelever front suspension.
Production Period:
1996-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
