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Introduction
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Market Position
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Model Niche:
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The BMW R850R and R850C were positioned as accessible, comfortable, and reliable touring motorcycles within BMW's boxer-twin lineup, offering a slightly less powerful but more economical alternative to the larger R1100/R1150 models.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitors:
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Competed against other European and Japanese motorcycles in the middleweight to large-displacement touring and roadster segments, such as Moto Guzzi California, Kawasaki Vulcan, and Honda ST series (though the R850C had a cruiser-like style).
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Key Features
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Unique Selling Points:
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BMW's signature boxer-twin engine for its low center of gravity and smooth power delivery, Telelever front suspension for superior ride comfort and stability, Paralever rear swingarm for reduced shaft drive reaction, ABS II (optional) for enhanced safety, robust build quality.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine:
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Complete disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair of the R850 boxer engine (including cylinder heads, valves, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system).
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Fuel System:
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Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines.
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Ignition System:
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Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, wiring.
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Transmission:
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Six-speed gearbox, clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive, driveshaft maintenance.
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Brakes:
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Front and rear brake systems, ABS II (if equipped), brake fluid replacement, caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines.
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Suspension:
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Front Telelever suspension, Paralever rear suspension, shock absorber service, fork seal replacement, swingarm maintenance.
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Electrical System:
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Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting, instruments, fuses, relays, ECU diagnostics.
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Bodywork And Frame:
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Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fairings, seat, fuel tank, fenders.
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Cooling System:
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Oil cooling system (air-cooled with oil cooler), oil filter replacement, oil change intervals.
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Exhaust System:
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Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if fitted), mufflers, lambda sensors.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake bleeding, clutch adjustment, valve clearance checks.
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Troubleshooting:
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Diagnostic procedures for common issues, electrical faults, engine performance problems, starting difficulties.
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Repair:
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Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, suspension component replacement.
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Diagnosis:
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Fault code reading (if applicable via OBD-II or proprietary BMW diagnostics), circuit testing, component testing.
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Type:
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Air-cooled, four-stroke, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (boxer)
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Displacement:
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848 cc (850cc designation)
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Bore X Stroke:
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90.0 mm x 66.0 mm
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Compression Ratio:
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9.7:1 (typical)
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Performance
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Horsepower:
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Approx. 70-75 HP @ 7000 rpm
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Torque:
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Approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential injection.
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded gasoline (95 octane recommended)
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Lubrication
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Oil Capacity:
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Approx. 3.0 liters (with filter change)
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Oil Type Specification:
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API SG or higher, SAE 15W-50 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil. (Refer to manual for exact BMW recommendations).
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
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Valve Clearance Check:
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Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as specified by BMW.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Refer to manual; typically around 20,000-30,000 km.
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Fluid Specifications
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid.
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Coolant Type:
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N/A (air-cooled engine with oil cooling).
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Final Drive Oil Spec:
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SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Clutch wear, brake pad wear, fork seals (telelever bushings), wheel bearings, aging fuel lines, potential issues with the ABS modulator (if fitted and older).
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Electrical Quirks:
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Occasionally, older models may exhibit minor electrical gremlins due to age and exposure to elements; thorough electrical diagnostics are key.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Bmw Motorrad Legacy:
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BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable, technically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for its boxer-twin engine platform, which debuted in 1923. This heritage emphasizes durability, engineering excellence, and rider comfort.
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Model Evolution
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R850 Series Context:
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The R850 series was introduced as a more accessible displacement within the R-series boxer line, evolving from the R100 and R80 series. It shared many components and design philosophies with the larger R1100/R1150 models but offered a less intimidating power delivery and a slightly lower price point.
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Production
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Production Period:
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The R850R was produced from 1995 to 2007. The R850C cruiser variant was introduced later, around 2000-2001, and production likely ran concurrently with the R850R.
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Manufacturing Location:
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Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad's primary manufacturing facility).
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