Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Segment:
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BMW's Boxer-engined touring and sport-touring motorcycles, representing premium quality and engineering for the discerning rider.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Honda ST1100, Yamaha FJ1200, Kawasaki GTR1000, Moto Guzzi California.
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Key Features
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Vehicle Highlights:
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Torque-rich boxer-twin engines, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance travel (especially RT), advanced suspension systems (Telelever/Paralever), integrated ABS on many models, durable build quality.
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Manual Value
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Manual Purpose:
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Empowers owners and independent technicians with the knowledge to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair these complex BMW motorcycles, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
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Manual Details
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Coverage Areas
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Covered Models:
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BMW R1100RT, BMW R1100RS, BMW R850GS, BMW R1100GS, BMW R850R, BMW R1100R
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Covered Years:
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1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
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Page Count
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Estimated Page Count:
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800-1200 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era and scope)
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Manual Type
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Manual Type:
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Service Repair Workshop Manual
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Language
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Language:
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English
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Format
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Format:
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Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine Systems:
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Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, overhaul), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (including fuel injection), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU, sensors).
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Transmission Drivetrain:
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Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox disassembly and assembly, final drive maintenance and repair, driveshaft and universal joint service.
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Chassis Suspension Brakes:
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Front fork (Telelever) overhaul and adjustment, rear shock absorber (Paralever) service, brake system (including ABS II or ABS-N) inspection, fluid replacement, component overhaul (calipers, master cylinders), wheel bearing maintenance.
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Electrical Systems:
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Wiring diagrams, battery service, starter motor, alternator, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, indicators), instrument cluster, ignition switch, fuses, relays, common electrical troubleshooting procedures.
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Bodywork Frame:
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Fairing removal and installation, seat servicing, fuel tank maintenance, frame inspection, body panel repair and replacement procedures.
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance Tasks:
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Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, valve clearance checks and adjustments, brake fluid replacement, coolant flush and replacement, chain/driveshaft lubrication and adjustment, tire pressure checks.
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Repair Procedures:
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Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, fuel system troubleshooting and component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilds.
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Troubleshooting Guides:
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Systematic fault finding for engine performance, electrical issues, braking problems, and other common malfunctions with diagnostic flowcharts.
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Technical Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance and pre-ride inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and suspension overhauls. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and detailed exploded views.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Engine Type:
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Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke, flat-twin (boxer) engine.
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Displacement:
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R850 variants: 848 cc; R1100 variants: 1085 cc.
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Bore X Stroke:
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R850: 82.5 mm x 74.5 mm; R1100: 99 mm x 70.5 mm.
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Compression Ratio:
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R850: 10.0:1; R1100: 10.7:1.
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Performance
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Horsepower:
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R850: approx. 70 hp @ 7250 rpm; R1100: approx. 90 hp @ 7250 rpm (specifics vary slightly by model and year).
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Torque:
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R850: approx. 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 5500 rpm; R1100: approx. 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (specifics vary slightly by model and year).
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Fuel System
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Fuel Delivery:
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Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with two injectors per cylinder.
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Fuel Type:
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Unleaded gasoline, 95-98 RON (octane rating).
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Engine Management
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ECU System:
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Bosch Motronic 2.1 or 2.2
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Technology Features
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Infotainment
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Instrument Cluster:
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Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for fuel level, odometer, trip meters, clock, gear indicator (on some models), warning lights.
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Driver Assistance
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ABS System:
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Integrated Anti-lock Braking System (ABS II or ABS-N) providing enhanced braking control, especially in adverse conditions.
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Connectivity
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Diagnostic Interface:
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BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector (often requiring specific BMW diagnostic tools or adapters).
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Convenience Features
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Heated Grips:
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Available as an option on most models for improved comfort in cold weather.
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Cruise Control:
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Available as an option on the R1100RT model.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Filter Change:
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Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
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Valve Clearance Check:
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Every 20,000 km.
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 20,000 km (specific type and gap per manual).
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Brake Fluid Flush:
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Every 2 years.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type:
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SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or JASO MA motorcycle oil (consult manual for exact BMW recommendation).
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Engine Oil Capacity:
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Approx. 4.0 liters with filter change.
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommends specific coolant).
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Clutch wear, alternator brushes, voltage regulator, fuel pump O-rings, swingarm pivot bearings, ABS modulator issues (especially on older ABS II systems).
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Potential Failures:
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Seals (e.g., output shaft seal, final drive seal), electrical connector corrosion, ABS sensor failures.
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Parts Numbers
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Oil Filter Part Number Example:
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Mann-Filter MWK 1001, Mahle KL 146, BMW 11 42 1 458 700 (always verify with VIN).
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Air Filter Part Number Example:
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K&N TB-1100, BMW 13 72 1 459 104 (always verify with VIN).
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Bmw Motorcycle Legacy:
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BMW has a long-standing history of producing durable, reliable, and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for their boxer engines and pioneering engineering.
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Model Evolution
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Boxer Engine Development:
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These models represent the evolution of BMW's boxer twins, moving from carbureted to fuel-injected systems and introducing advanced suspension technologies like Telelever and Paralever for improved handling and comfort.
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Production
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Manufacturing Location:
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Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad factory).
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Key Innovations:
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Introduction of the Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension offered significant improvements in ride quality and handling over previous generations.
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