Positioning:
The R850R was positioned as a more accessible, user-friendly alternative to the larger R1100/R1150 models, focusing on comfort, touring, and everyday usability with BMW's characteristic boxer-twin engineering.
Competitors:
Competed against models from Moto Guzzi (e.g., California), Ducati (e.g., ST2), Honda (e.g., ST1100 - though higher displacement), and Yamaha (e.g., FJ1200).
Features:
Torquey boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics, ABS (optional), touring capability, BMW build quality.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, cooling system (air-cooled).
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch service, final drive.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, lighting, ignition switch, starter, alternator, battery, electronic control units (ECU).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front forks (telescopic), rear suspension (Paralever), steering head bearings, wheel bearings, brake system (ABS optional).
Bodywork And Frame:
Frame inspection, body panels, fuel tank, seat, fairings, exhaust system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable via OBD or diagnostic tools), common problem diagnosis.
Repair:
Component replacement, overhauls, seal replacement, rebuild procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic rider maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds, including electrical system troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke boxer twin
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
70 hp (51 kW) @ 7,000 rpm
Torque:
75 Nm (55 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or higher (check manual for specific BMW approval)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 liters (2.9 US qt) with filter change
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Type:
N/A (This model typically came with a manual transmission only)
Drive Type:
Shaft drive to rear wheel
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate, diaphragm spring
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 (check manual for specific BMW approval)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 liters (0.7 US qt)
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width At Handlebars:
Approx. 860 mm (33.9 in)
Height At Seat:
Approx. 825 mm (32.5 in) (standard seat)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 213 kg (470 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 liters (5.3 US gal), including 4-liter reserve
ABS Availability:
Optional (BMW Integral ABS)
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes (2 x 305 mm), single rear disc brake (265 mm). Optional ABS.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, clear turn signal lenses.
Chassis Design:
Steel tube frame providing rigidity and rider protection.
Tire Specifications Front:
110/80 ZR18
Tire Specifications Rear:
140/80 R17
Audio System:
N/A (Typically no integrated infotainment system on this model; aftermarket options available).
ABS:
Optional Integral ABS system, which combines braking actuation for both wheels.
Smartphone Integration:
N/A
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, clock.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles) or as recommended by the manual.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 10,000 km (6,200 miles), replace as needed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific BMW approval and replacement interval)
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 (check manual for specific BMW approval and capacity)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, alternator brushes, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, fuel pump relays, exhaust gasket leaks.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can sometimes suffer from intermittent electrical issues due to wiring harness wear or corrosion, especially around connectors. ABS system issues if equipped.
Engine Vibrations:
While boxer twins are known for their character, prolonged rough running can indicate need for fuel system or ignition tuning.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for producing durable, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engine configuration and shaft drive.
Predecessor:
The R850R is an evolution of the R-series boxer platform, sharing much of its engineering with the larger R1100R and later R1150R models, but with a smaller displacement for a different market segment.
Successor:
The R850R was eventually phased out as the R1150R became the dominant offering in this displacement class, with later models like the R1200R continuing the tradition.
Production Years:
1995-2006 (various markets and sub-models)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad factory)
