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Rider’s Manual (US Model) R 1150 RT R 850 RT BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad BMW Motorrad On-board On-board...
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Important notes This symbol indicates pre- cautions and measures which are essential in pro-tecting the rider or other persons from severe or fatal injury. Specific instructions and safety precautions intended to pre- vent damage to the motorcycle. Disregarding them may render the warranty invalid.
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We congratulate you on choos- correct equipment for machine ing a new Boxer model from and rider, to ensure maximum BMW and welcome you to the reliability and safety, and advice worldwide community of BMW on how to maintain the value of riders.
Indicator and warning lights .. 7 Brake system Ignition switch and steering - general ......26-27 lock ........8-9 - with BMW Integral ABS 28-31 Left handlebar fitting ... 10 Clutch ......... 32 Right handlebar fitting ..11 Lights......33-35 Seats ......12-13 Shock absorbers ....
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Riding, gear shifts..60-61 Environmental protection ..75 Brake system BMW rider’s equipment..76 - general......62-63 BMW motorcycle - with BMW Integral ABS 64-70 accessories......77 BMW Integral ABS fault Training means extra safety. 78 table ........71 Concluding thoughts ... 79...
Ignition switch and steering lock Ignition switch and steering lock, tank filler cap lock and du- alseat lock are all operated with the same key. The key also fits the storage compartment and System cases. Keys Only RESIDUAL BRAKING You will receive two master FUNCTIONALITY is available keys and one spare key.
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Ignition switch and steering lock • Turn the handlebars to full left lock. Key positions Engage the steering lock with Never turn the key to OFF or the handlebars in this position while riding the motorcycle! only. ON Operating position, OFF* Ignition and lights off, ignition, lights and all steering locked...
Left handlebar fitting 3 Hazard warning flasher To prevent air from entering switch the clutch system: 4 Rocker switch, electric • Do not turn the fitting on the windshield adjustment handlebar. 5 Audio system handlebar 1 Cold start lever remote control (increased engine speed) (b Supplementary Rider’s 54-55)
Right handlebar fitting 9 10 To prevent air from entering the brake system: 11 Flashing turn indicator • Do not turn the fitting on the switch, right handlebar. • Press – Turn indicators flash 8 Switch for heated handlebar To switch off: grips •...
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Dualseat Removing dualseat • Turn the key in the dualseat lock to position 1 and hold it there • Take off the rear section of the seat – Toolkit is then accessible • Take off the front section of the seat •...
Dualseat Adjusting seat height Locking the seats When installing the dualseat, make sure that it is firmly located. When installing the dualseat, make sure that it is firmly located. • Take off the front section of the seat • Lift up seat holder 2, position it •...
System case Closing the System case After an accident or if the motorcycle has fallen over, check that the System cases are correctly secured! Risk of breaking the locking Max. load per System case: tongue. 10 kg (approx. 22 lbs). Before closing handle 1 or lock- With System cases installed, ing system 2, turn the key in the...
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System case Installing System case Risk of breaking the locking tongue. Before closing handle 1 or lock- ing system 2, turn the key in the case lock to position A. Always make sure that the cases are secured. An incorrectly secured case could be lost and endanger other road users.
Adjusting the windshield Adjusting the windshield Do not open the storage com- • Switching on the ignition partment 1 while riding the • Press rocker switch 2 motorcycle • Adjust windshield according — risk of accident. to switch positions A or B...
Hazard warning flashers Hazard warning lights You cannot activate the hazard warning flashers if the ignition is switched off. Do not use the hazard warning flashers for longer than abso- lutely necessary. • Switch off the ignition Note state of battery charge. –...
Maintenance Instructions), or, for example have it performed by your authorized BMW Motorrad retailer. This is to ensure that your motorcycle corresponds with road-vehicle use and safety laws. Your vehicle must be in perfect...
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If you encounter any problems – shock absorber settings or difficulties, it is always best to and spring preload contact your authorized BMW – condition of wheels and tires, Motorrad retailer. tread depth and tire pressures He will provide the necessary –...
Engine oil Checking the oil level after the engine has only been used for a short time or is only just warm could lead to wrong interpretati- ons and thereby to an incorrect oil fill because the cold, more viscous oil takes longer to flow back into the sump.
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– the red engine oil pressure filler screw 2 top up the engine warning light should re- oil through the engine oil filler 1 main off while the engine is • Then retighten the oil filler running. screw 2 BMW recommends Castrol...
Fuel Leaded fuel will destroy the Refuelling catalytic converter. Do not run the fuel tank dry or you may damage the engine or the catalytic converter. Fuel is flammable and explo- Wipe off plastic parts sive. Do not smoke. Never immediately if they are wetted bring a naked flame near the with fuel.
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Fuel – Usable tank capacity • Refuel 25.2 liters (6.6 US gallons) – Refuel only with premium – When the reserve fuel quan- unleaded grade fuel to tity is reached DIN 51607 standard or equiv- (approx. 4 liters/1 US gallon) alent, minimum octane num- the orange warning light 1 ber 95 (RON) and 85...
If you are doubtful about the re- liability of the hydraulic clutch • Turn knob A to set the most operating system, it is best to comfortable span: consult an authorized BMW – Setting 1: minimum distance Motorrad retailer. – Setting 3: maximum distance...
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Handlebar levers Adjusting handbrake lever To prevent air from entering the hydraulic circuit of the • Turn knob A to set the most brake system: comfortable span: • Do not turn the fitting on the – Setting 1: minimum distance handlebar.
To ensure reliability have all the safety of the brake sys- work on the brake systems car- tem. ried out by a specialist work- Immediately seek the advice shop, preferably an authorized of an authorized BMW Motor- BMW Motorrad retailer. rad retailer.
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To ensure reliable operation of have the work performed the brakes: do not allow lining by a specialist workshop, thickness to fall below minimum preferably an authorized value ( Maintenance Instruc- BMW Motorrad retailer. tions, Chapter 2).
Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Checking brake fluid level On a motorcycle equipped with BMW Integral ABS, the Changing brake fluid brake fluid level in the reser- voir ( 30, 31) does NOT drop as the brake pads wear.
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Residual braking function When the ignition is switched off, before and during self- diagnosis ( 68), or if the BMW Integral ABS fails, only a RESIDUAL BRAKING FUNC- When the RESIDUAL BRAK- TION (...
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Checking front brake fluid • Place the handlebars in full level left lock. • Check brake fluid level in sight glass MIN Minimum level Never permit the brake fluid (top of marking ring)
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Checking rear brake fluid level • Slacken off screw 1 • Take off cover 2 and check Never permit the brake fluid brake fluid level level to drop below the MIN MIN Minimum level...
Have the clutch system rises as the clutch wears. checked immediately by a spe- cialist workshop, preferably an • Place motorcycle on center authorized BMW Motorrad re- stand tailer. – Make sure the ground is level and firm • Handlebar in straight-ahead...
Lights Checking lights Check that all lights are opera- tional at the start of each jour- ney. If turn indicator repeater flashes at twice the usual speed: defective flasher bulb. General warning light ON ( Check brake light or tail light. To change bulbs in parking If the tail light is defective the lights, headlight (dipped and...
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Lights Have the headlight basic set- ting adjusted by a specialist workshop, preferably an autho- rized BMW Motorrad retailer. Adjusting beam throw Adjust beam height so that When the basic setting is cor- oncoming traffic is not dazzled. rect, headlight beam throw is...
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Only with extremely high loads: dazzle oncoming traffic. • Perform minor adjustment Your BMW Motorrad retailer using rotary knob 1 can supply anti-dazzle masking Readjust the headlight to the sheets for the headlight. Please...
Shock-absorber adjustment Basic setting (solo): • Turn adjusting screw 2 in Before the journey starts, ad- direction indicated by arrow H just the rear shock absorber to (clockwise) as far as it will go suit the gross weight and load •...
Suspension spring preload Before the journey starts, ad- Basic setting, solo: just spring preload according • Turn knob 3 as far as it will go to the gross weight. counter-clockwise as indi- If spring preload is changed, cated by the “LOW” arrow the shock absorber has to be •...
• Measure tread depth at the center of the tire tread Have damaged wheel rims checked and, if necessary, BMW's minimum tread depth replaced by a specialist work- recommendation: shop, preferably an autho- Front ....2 mm (0.08 in) rized BMW Motorrad retailer.
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Wheels Checking tire pressures Incorrect tire pressures have a considerable influence on handling and on tire life. Adjust tire pressures to suit total weight. Never exceed ei- ther the motorcycle’s gross weight or the individual wheel load limits ( 41). Screwing valve caps on –...
Accessories and loads BMW cannot examine or test each product of outside origin on the accessories and tyres market to ensure that it can be used on or in connection with BMW motorcycles with- out constituting a safety hazard. Even approval by a...
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Accessories and loads Correct loading Overloading can impair the handling of your motorcycle. • Make sure that weight is dis- tributed evenly between the left and right sides of the motorcycle Do not exceed the gross weight • Pack heavy items at the bot- limit of 490 kg (1080 lbs).
Your first journey BMW Integral ABS incorpo- rates a brake booster, so brak- ing efficiency is significantly higher than with conventional Handling your motorcycle brake systems. safely Each motorcycle has a charac- ter all its own. It is time now for...
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Your first journey Safe motorcycling does not Do not ride the motorcycle af- depend on the motorcycle ter drinking alcoholic bever- alone. ages. Even small amounts of Your own skill and common- alcohol or drugs, particularly sense are needed too. if taken in conjunction with The key to genuine safety on medication, will adversely af-...
BMW Integral ABS ( enclosed space. Risk of fatal accident When the ignition is switched Your motorcycle is equipped off or if the BMW Integral ABS with Digital Motor Electronics fails, only a RESIDUAL BRAK- (Motronic) and high-power igni- ING FUNCTION remains tion system.
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BMW Motorrad retailer with the hot exhaust system. If misfiring or malfunction of the Do not allow the engine to fuel-air mixture preparation sys-...
Side stand Placing motorcycle on • Switch off the ignition side stand • Keep both feet on the ground • Hold the left handlebar grip with your left hand • Keep your right hand on the For safety reasons, never sit right handlebar grip and the on the motorcycle with the handbrake lever...
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• Keep both feet on the ground • Hold the left handlebar grip If the motorcycle is fitted with with your left hand BMW Integral ABS, only RESI- • Keep your right hand on the DUAL BRAKING FUNCTIONA- right handlebar grip and the...
Main (center) stand • Switch off the ignition • Hold the left handlebar grip with the left hand Placing motorcycle on • Hold the lifting handle with the center stand right hand • Place the right foot on the extension pin and press it down until the curved shoes of the For safety reasons, never sit stand touch the ground...
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• Ignition key in “R” or “ON” position ( If the motorcycle is fitted with – Steering column lock BMW Integral ABS, only RESI- unlocked DUAL BRAKING FUNCTIO- • Hold the left handlebar grip NALITY is available when the...
1,000 km (600 miles) speeds while running in will lead Make an appointment with your to increased engine wear. authorized BMW Motorrad retailer in good time, so that the work can be performed punctu- ally. While running in the motorcy-...
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This running in procedure is Comply with the notes on BMW essential if the tires are to Integral ABS ( 64-71). achieve maximum grip.
Switch on the ignition B position while the ignition is – Move the kill switch to the run on (switch in ON position), the position A BMW Integral ABS remains op- • Turn ignition key to ON erational ( 64-71).
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Before you start Fully retracting the side stand Engine does not start: – Move the gear lever to the position or disengage the clutch If the side stand is extended Engine stops when first gear is and a gear engaged, you can- engaged: not start the motorcycle.
Starting Do not warm up the engine Starting with the motorcycle at a standstill — risk of overheating or fire! Ride away immediately after If you attempt to start the en- starting the engine. gine when the battery is flat, you To avoid overheating the air- will hear the relay chattering.
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Starting Do not turn the throttle twistgrip when starting the engine. Choke • Correct position of choke • Press starter pushbutton 2 lever 1: – The engine starts – Lever up, in position A: • Turn the throttle twistgrip Cold start carefully –...
Indicator light 1 goes out above ABS warning light idle speed. The ABS warning light 3 lights up if the BMW Integral ABS develops a fault ( If indicator light 1 comes on Warning light, general while the motorcycle is being...
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• Operate the kill switch rect, you must consult a certi- • Bring the motorcycle safely to fied workshop, preferably an a halt authorized • check engine oil level ( BMW Motorrad retailer.
20). If the oil level is correct, always consult a specialist workshop without delay, prefer- ably a BMW Motorrad retailer. Avoid high engine speeds until The Rider Information Display the problem has been dealt only operates when the ignition with.
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Rider Information Display (RID) Fuel gauge 2 Gear indicator 3 1 - 0 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - E If only two bars still appear, about 4 liters (0.9 Imp. gal) of Clock 4 reserve fuel quantity remain in •...
Riding and changing gear Load changes Engine speed Try not to open or close the Limit engine speed in accor- throttle abruptly, particularly dance with engine temperature, on wet or slippery roads. using the highest engine speeds only when the engine Gear shifts has reached its regular operat- ing temperature.
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Riding and changing gear Moving off and upshifts • Pull the clutch lever in • Press down on the gearshift lever (to select first gear) and take your foot off the lever • Smoothly re-engage the clutch • Increase engine speed Downshifts slightly as necessary •...
Brake system - general Wet brakes Salt on brakes After the motorcycle has been The full breaking effect can be washed, ridden through water delayed if the motorcycle is rid- or ridden in the rain, the brake den on salt-covered roads and discs and pads may be wet the brakes are not applied for (or iced-over in winter), and may...
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(i.e. without The brakes must first be resistance), a mechanical or applied until the discs and hydraulic fault may exist. pads are clean. Immediately consult an Dirt on the brakes increases authorized BMW Motorrad re- the rate of pad wear. tailer.
Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS BMW Integral ABS is the latest- generation BMW ABS develop- Sensitive electronic ment: by preventing both control wheels from locking and opti- It takes skill and sensitive con- mising braking-force distribu- trol of the brakes to pull up tion by means of the integral safely on a motorcycle.
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Safety margin But remember: the potentially shorter braking distances which BMW Integral ABS per- mits must not be used as an excuse for careless riding. ABS is primarily a means of ensuring a safety margin in genuine emergencies.
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Fully integral brakes The integral brake function interlinks the front and rear Brake servo brakes, so both wheels are braked when you operate the The hydraulic pump in the BMW brake lever. Integral ABS actively boosts the...
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS RESIDUAL BRAKING FUNCTION If the BMW Integral ABS develops a fault, a RESIDUAL BRAKING FUNCTION only is available in the brake circuits in question. The RESIDUAL BRAKING FUNC- TION is the braking efficiency with- out the hydraulic servo assistance of the BMW Integral ABS.
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS Self-diagnosis with pull- away test The BMW Integral ABS per- forms self-diagnosis and a pull- • Release the brake levers, if away test to ensure its operabil- necessary ity. • Switching on the ignition...
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS • Start the engine. • Move off – ABS warning light 1: OFF (as of approx. 5 km/h (3 mph) road speed) Starting on gradients: Pull-away test successfully Always switch on the ignition...
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Brake system - with BMW Integral ABS If there is a fault in the ABS system, the reserves of safety If the BMW Integral ABS fails normally afforded by ABS are in both brake circuits, a RESI- not available until the defect DUAL BRAKING FUNCTION has been put right.
Alternate flas- Alternate flas- Fluid level in the BMW Integral ABS is too hing at 4 Hz hing at 4 Hz low, perform the checks listed above. Only RESIDUAL BRAKING FUNCTION...
Reliability Know-how… In recent years, motorcycles’ technical design features have The authorized BMW Motorrad become more and more retailer employs staff that sophisticated. attends regular and compre- Motronic, electronic ignition, hensive training courses. integral brakes, the catalytic Authorized BMW Motorrad...
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Reliability The staff in the authorized BMW motorcycle retailer or workshop know every detail of your motorcycle and can take reme- dial action if necessary before Regular visits to the workshop minor faults develop into seri- for routine servicing are ous problems.
They can provide practical advice on what to do Call us if you have any questions next and can make arrange- about the BMW retailership net- ments on your behalf, for exam- work. You can contact us from ple notifying local emergency...
Environmental protection Development… Motorcyclists have an intensive relationship with nature. BMW has made sure that they con- tinue to enjoy the best possible prospects for successful riding in the future. For instance, your new Boxer is available with exhaust emission control by closed-loop, three- way catalytic converter.
• Helmet clothing, you simply can't set • Suit your sights too high. It's good • Gloves to know that the BMW brand • Boots can be trusted to supply you with safe, high-quality rider's It is foolhardy to ride without clothing as well.
This is our motto – and it is one standards of design, function we live up to. For many years and quality as the motorcycle now, BMW has offered the itself. This calls for a great deal enthusiast everything capable of experience, but our engi-...
Work up to the wheel lock limit – Take bends smoothly and gradually. rhythmically, avoiding violent BMW has a worthwhile safety braking and acceleration contribution to make in this area – Approach bends slower than too – BMW Safety Training.
We want you to reach your des- should always be entrusted to tination safely – and for riding the trained specialists your BMW Boxer to be the most employed by your authorized delightful leisure pastime in BMW Motorrad retailer. the world!
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Rear brake, 31 Filler, 21 Brake pads, checking, 27 Temperature display (RID), 58 Brake system Engine oil pressure With BMW Integral ABS, 28, Indicator light, 56 29, 30, 31 Brake system, checking, 26 Filler cap, 5 Fog lamp, 6 Catalytic convertor...
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G – O Indicator lights Gear indicator (RID), 59 ABS check, 7, 56 Gearshifts, 60, 61 Battery charge, 7 General view Battery charge current, 56 Left side, 4 Engine oil pressure, 7, 57 Right side, 5 Fuel level, 56 High-beam headlight, 7 Right turn indicator repeater, 7 Handlebar fitting Tank capacity, 7...
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O – T Oil level Checking, 21 Safety checklist, 18 Engine oil pressure, 7, 56 Safety instructions Overheating, risk of, 54 Catalytic convertor, 45 Explanation, 86 General, 44 Partially integral brakes, 66 Service worldwide, 74 Power socket, 12 V, 6 Side stand, 46, 47 Speedometer, 6 Starter button, 11...
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Not to be reproduced either result of such discrepancies. wholly or in part without written Dimensions, weights, fuel con- permission from BMW Motor- sumption and performance rad, data are quoted to the custo- After Sales.
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BMW recommends Castrol BMW Motorrad Printed information Order No.: 01 47 7 683 797 04.2003 The Ultimate 3rd edition US / RF Driving Machine...