Product Name:
BMW R850 R850R 1994-2001 Workshop Service Repair Manual
Production Years Covered:
1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Segment:
Touring/Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
BMW R850R owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Key Competitors:
Moto Guzzi California, Ducati ST2, Honda ST1100, Yamaha FJ1200 (though R850R offered a more accessible BMW Boxer experience).
Vehicle Selling Points:
Torquey Boxer-twin engine, shaft drive, comfortable ergonomics, BMW build quality, accessible performance.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (all aspects), Transmission, Drivetrain, Clutch, Brakes (front and rear), Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System.
Electrical Systems:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, ECU, Wiring Diagrams, ABS (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacement, lubrication, adjustments, valve clearance checks and adjustments, timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable, though R850R uses a timing chain).
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, fuel injection system diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosis of common faults, error code interpretation (if applicable), systematic fault finding for various systems.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, detailed troubleshooting guides, wiring schematics for accurate electrical fault finding.
Rebuild Capability:
Comprehensive procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, tolerances, and assembly sequences.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (Boxer)
Displacement:
848 cc (850cc designation)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Horsepower:
70 hp @ 6,750 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 5,000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-50 API SG/SH (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 liters (with filter change)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (BMW Motronic)
Cooling Method:
Air Cooling
Length:
Approx. 2,240 mm (88.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 219 kg (483 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 440 kg (970 lbs)
Front Tire Size:
110/80 R18
Rear Tire Size:
140/80 R17
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Cast Aluminum Wheels, specific hub fitment)
Certification:
Meets relevant European emissions and safety standards of its era.
Braking System:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.
Front Brake:
Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers
Rear Brake:
Single 277 mm disc with 2-piston caliper
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, standard turn signals.
Dashboard Features:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, LCD odometer, trip meter, fuel level, gear indicator (on some models), warning lights.
ABS System:
Optional BMW Integral ABS (system varies slightly by year, manual covers its operation and maintenance).
Original Features:
None (pre-smartphone era).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) for valve clearance checks, spark plug replacement, and full inspection.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations)
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled)
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, front fork seals, exhaust header pipe corrosion, aging fuel lines, paralever pivot bearing wear.
Electrical Concerns:
Corrosion in connectors, failing starter solenoids, intermittent dash lights (common in older electronics).
Engine Performance:
Slightly rough idle if throttle bodies or injectors are dirty, potential for oil leaks around cylinder base gaskets and oil cooler.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter MW 64, Mahle OX 147 (always verify with manual or parts catalog)
Spark Plug Type:
e.g., NGK CR9EK, Champion RA6HC (refer to manual for exact fitment)
Heritage Context:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable and well-engineered motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engine configuration and shaft drive.
Predecessor Lineage:
The R850R is part of the modern Boxer family, building on the legacy of models like the R75/5, R90/6, R100RS, and R1100R.
Model Placement:
Positioned as a more accessible and lighter alternative to the R1100R, offering similar comfort and touring capability with a slightly less powerful engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Key Production Runs:
1994-2001, with minor updates and refinements throughout its production life.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction for reliability, comfort, and longevity when properly maintained. Often praised for its character and build quality.
Independent Reviews:
Consistently reviewed positively for its smooth power delivery, comfortable riding position, and practical shaft drive, making it a good choice for touring and commuting.
