🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

R850C / R1200C

Model Code:

R850C: 0407, R1200C: 0400

Product Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW R850C and R1200C owners, independent motorcycle repair shops, BMW dealerships

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, dealership-level repair and maintenance information, empowering users to service their motorcycles effectively and affordably.

Manual Type Comparison:

This is a professional workshop service manual, distinct from owner's manuals, offering in-depth technical procedures rather than basic operating instructions.

Dealership Quality:

Directly mirrors the documentation used by authorized BMW technicians.

Visual Emphasis:

Extensive use of diagrams and pictures for clarity in complex procedures.

Problem Solving:

Aims to equip users with the knowledge to diagnose and repair issues themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Print Capability:

Yes (Printable PDF)

Compatibility:

Windows / Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

BMW Boxer Twin Cylinder, 4-stroke, Air-Cooled (specific to R850C & R1200C variants)

Fuel System:

Fuel Injection (EFI), Throttle bodies, Fuel pump, Injectors, ECU diagnostics

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (Motronic), Spark plugs, Ignition coils, Sensors

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter (where applicable), Mufflers, Lambda sensors

Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission, Clutch (dry single-plate or wet multi-plate depending on specific model variant within the R1200C family), Gearbox internal components, Shifter mechanism

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive, Final drive unit, Universal joint, Drive shaft maintenance

Frame And Chassis:

Tubular steel frame, Swingarm, Suspension linkages

Front Suspension:

Telelever front suspension system (R1200C), Fork seals, Damper units, Springs, Steering head bearings

Rear Suspension:

Monolever rear suspension (R850C), Paralever rear suspension (R1200C), Shock absorber, Spring preload adjustment, Swingarm bearings

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), Brake calipers, Master cylinders, Brake lines, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics (where applicable)

Wheels And Tires:

Spoked wheels, Rim types, Tire pressure specifications, Wheel bearing maintenance, Wheel balancing

Electrical System:

Battery, Charging system (alternator, regulator), Starter motor, Lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), Horn, Fuses, Relays, Wiring diagrams

Instrumentation:

Instrument cluster, Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel gauge, Warning lights, Diagnostic indicators

Bodywork And Fairings:

Fuel tank, Seat, Fenders, Side covers, Handlebars, Mirrors, Windscreen (if equipped), Body panel removal and installation

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine checks, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Brake fluid flush, Coolant flush (if liquid-cooled variants exist within R1200C range, though primarily air-cooled), Valve clearance adjustment

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Fault code explanations

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly

Diagnostic Procedures:

Using diagnostic tools, Reading error codes, Live data interpretation

Special Tools:

Listing of required BMW special tools for specific procedures

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all fasteners and critical components

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems

Technical Specifications:

All technical data and specifications for maintenance and repair

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston removal/installation, cylinder head service, crankshaft inspection

Transmission Rebuild:

Gearbox disassembly, inspection of gears, bearings, and seals, reassembly instructions

Clutch Replacement:

Detailed steps for clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing replacement

Brake System Overhaul:

Caliper rebuilding, master cylinder replacement, brake line bleeding, ABS system service

Suspension Fork Service:

Fork oil change, seal replacement, internal component servicing (Telelever and conventional forks)

Rear Shock ABSorber Service:

Inspection, adjustment, and potential replacement of rear shock absorber units

Fuel System Cleaning:

Injector cleaning, throttle body synchronization and cleaning

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of starter motor, alternator, ignition coils, and sensors

Body Panel Replacement:

Removal and installation procedures for all external body panels

Depth Level:

Expert-Level (Dealership Technician Standard)

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with detailed explanations and diagrams

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving complex faults

Visual Aids:

Numerous high-quality illustrations, photographs, and schematic diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, enabling quick information retrieval

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear image reproduction when printed

Printable Pages:

Yes, designed for home or professional printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

BMW Boxer Twin, 4-stroke, Air-Cooled

Displacement R850C:

848 cc (51.7 cu in)

Bore X Stroke R850C:

90.0 mm x 66.0 mm (3.54 in x 2.60 in)

Displacement R1200C:

1170 cc (71.4 cu in)

Bore X Stroke R1200C:

101.0 mm x 73.0 mm (3.98 in x 2.87 in)

Horsepower R850C:

Approx. 70 HP (52 kW) at 6,750 rpm

Torque R850C:

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

Horsepower R1200C:

Approx. 100 HP (74 kW) at 7,500 rpm

Torque R1200C:

Approx. 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with digital engine management (Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded premium gasoline (Octane rating as specified by BMW)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Varies by model year and specific R1200C variant (typically around 17.5 - 18 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual gearbox

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Manual transmission is standard for both models)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate clutch (R850C) / Optional wet, multi-plate clutch (some R1200C variants)

Final Drive:

Shaft drive with enclosed final drive unit

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by model year and specific R1200C variant (refer to detailed specs within manual)

Seat Height:

Varies by model year and specific R1200C variant (refer to detailed specs within manual)

Dry Weight:

R850C: Approx. 220 kg (485 lbs) / R1200C: Approx. 245 kg (540 lbs) (dry)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to specific model year documentation for GVWR

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Manufactured to meet relevant global motorcycle safety standards.

ABS:

BMW Motorrad ABS available on many R1200C models, and optional on some R850C models.

Braking Performance:

Designed for reliable stopping power with dual front discs and single rear disc, featuring integral brake system on some models.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, and integrated turn signals for enhanced visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Primarily focused on essential motorcycle functionality; advanced infotainment systems are generally not standard on these models.

Instrumentation:

Classic analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, and essential warning lights.

ABS:

BMW's robust ABS system available as an option on many models, enhancing safety during braking.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; focus is on reliable mechanical and electrical operation rather than digital connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to specific manual for exact interval and oil type).

Filter Replacement Interval:

Oil filter usually replaced with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter intervals vary.

Valve Clearance Adjustment:

Typically inspected every 20,000 km (12,500 miles) or as per manual recommendations.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Generally recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

Specific synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil meeting BMW's specifications (e.g., SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50, check manual for exact grade and API rating).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 Liters (refer to manual for exact capacity).

Transmission Oil Type:

Hypoid gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 GL-5) for gearbox and final drive (check manual for specific BMW approval numbers).

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Refer to manual for gearbox and final drive capacities.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 hydraulic brake fluid (check manual for specific type and BMW approval).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, brake pad and disc wear, suspension bushings, steering head bearings, alternator output.

Electrical Gremlins:

Some models may exhibit minor electrical issues due to age; thorough wiring checks are important.

Telelever Maintenance:

Regular inspection of the Telelever system's pivot points and associated bearings is recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorcycles Legacy:

BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, innovation, and durability in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the early 20th century.

R Series Heritage:

The R850C and R1200C are part of BMW's iconic R series, which has historically featured the boxer-twin engine layout, known for its smooth power delivery and distinctive character.

Custom Styling:

The 'C' designation signifies a cruiser-style motorcycle, offering a more relaxed riding position and distinctive styling compared to BMW's sport or touring models of the era.

Production Period:

Introduced in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with variations and updates throughout their production runs.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The R1200C, in particular, was recognized for its unique styling and cruiser capabilities within the motorcycle market, appealing to riders seeking a different BMW experience.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally well-regarded by owners for their unique character, build quality, and comfortable touring capabilities, though individual model year performance may vary.

Certification Standards:

Built to meet stringent BMW engineering and quality certifications.