Positioning:
The BMW R850R positioned as a versatile, mid-range touring and everyday motorcycle, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and BMW's renowned build quality.
Competitors:
Competed against other mid-weight naked and sport-touring motorcycles from brands like Ducati, Moto Guzzi, and Yamaha.
Engine Configuration:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer twin-cylinder engine.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, a hallmark of BMW Motorrad.
Handling:
Known for its stable handling and comfortable ride, often featuring the Telelever front suspension (though R850R typically used conventional telescopic forks).
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for the BMW R850R motorcycle.
Secondary Coverage:
Pre-delivery checks, service data, maintenance schedules, electrical systems, engine overhaul, transmission, chassis, and bodywork.
Estimated Page Count:
400+
Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF), Printable
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the boxer twin engine (cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, valve train).
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection system, throttle bodies, injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, and associated sensors.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition control, coil packs, spark plugs, and timing.
Transmission:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch service (dry single-plate), shaft drive system maintenance and repair.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, starter motor, alternator, fuses, relays, and instrument cluster diagnostics.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (typically BMW EVO ABS), caliper service, disc inspection, brake fluid bleeding, and ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic) maintenance and repair, rear monoshock suspension, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement.
Chassis Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat, fairing, and accessory mounting.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, valve clearance checks, and fluid flushes.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common faults and error codes.
Repair Techniques:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, including torque specifications.
Diagnostics:
Information on using diagnostic tools (where applicable) and interpreting sensor data.
Special Tools:
Identification of BMW specific tools required for certain procedures.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts, covering complete overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air/Oil-cooled, four-stroke, boxer twin
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.3:1
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve), pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
70 hp (51 kW) @ 7,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 RON
Oil Type Spec:
BMW recommends SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 motorcycle-specific engine oil.
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 3.0 liters (3.2 US qt)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Refer to manual; typically SAE 75W-90 GL-5.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, rear shock absorber degradation, potential starter motor solenoid issues, and alternator output checks.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally robust, older wiring harnesses can develop issues; proper diagnostic procedures are crucial.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Motorcycle Division:
BMW Motorrad, known for pioneering boxer engines and shaft drive.
Positioning Within Lineup:
Positioned below the R1100R/R1150R, offering a more accessible BMW boxer experience.
Successor Models:
Largely superseded by the R1150R and later the R1200R series.
Production Period:
1996 - 2001
