The BMW R 850R is the latest addition to the German manufacturer’s ever-expanding lineup of Boxer twins, and it’s clear that BMW has taken a page from the R1100R’s playbook. This scaled-down version of the big boxer may look identical to its larger stablemate at first glance, but beneath the surface lies a unique blend of performance and practicality.
The fuel-injected, four-valve twin-cylinder engine is a marvel of modern engineering, producing 70 horsepower and 57 ft.-lbs of torque – a full seven more than its K75 counterpart. Paired with the Bosch Motronic engine management system, this engine is a true powerhouse, and the best part is that it’s environmentally friendly, thanks to its three-way catalyst-equipped system.
The R850R’s riding experience is just as impressive, with its stressed-member frame, Telelever front suspension, and Paralever rear suspension providing a smooth and stable ride. The 12.0 inch front and 10.9 inch rear disc brakes, paired with four-piston Brembo calipers, bring the bike to a stop with ease, while the Bridgestone Battlax radials and three-spoke cast alloy wheels ensure a comfortable and confident ride.
But it’s the R850R’s styling that’s sure to spark debate – some will love its raw, unapologetic design, while others will hate it. Whatever your opinion, one thing’s for sure: the R850R is the ultimate naked bike experience.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, two-cylinder, horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity
848 cc / 51.7 cu in.
Max Power
53.2 kw / 73 hp
Max Torque
77 Nm / 7.85 kgf-m / 56 ft/lb @ 5600 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
20.5 Liters / 5.4 US gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)
524 lbs / 238 kg
Seat Height
31.4 inches / 800 mm
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
BMW R 850R
Year
1997 – 99
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, two-cylinder, horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement
848 cc / 51.7 cu in.
Bore x Stroke
87.5 x 70.5 mm
Compression Ratio
10.3:1
Max Horsepower
53.2 kw / 73 hp
Max Torque
77 Nm / 7.85 kgf-m / 56 ft/lb @ 5600 rpm
Engine Management System
Electronic injection, Bosch Motronic
Lubrication System
Wet sump
Cooling System
Air/Oil-cooled
Performance
Top Speed
193.9 km/h / 120.5 mph
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Clutch
Single disc dry clutch, hydraulically operated
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Shaft
Electrical & Electronics System
Battery
12V / 19 Ah
Starter
Electric
Chassis & Suspension
Frame Type
Three section composite frame consisting of front & rear section, load bearing engine
Front Suspension
Motorrad Telelever, stanchion ∅35 mm, central strut, rebound damping adjustable.
Front Suspension Travel
4.7 inches / 120 mm
Rear Suspension
Die-cast aluminium single sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever, central strut, spring preload adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of a hydraulic handwheel, rebound adjustable damping.
Rear Suspension Travel
5.2 inches / 135 mm
Trail
61.9
Wheels & Brakes
Wheels
Die cast aluminium wheels
Front Wheel/Rim Size
3.50 x 17
Front Tire Size
120/70 – ZR17
Rear Wheel/Rim Size
5.00 x 17
Rear Tire Size
160/60 – ZR18
Front Brakes
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers
Rear Brakes
Single ∅276mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Dimension & Weights
Seat Height
31.4 inches / 800 mm
Wheelbase
58.54 inches / 1487 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity
20.5 Liters / 5.4 US gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight
524 lbs / 238 kg
Dry Weight
218kg / 481 lbs
Features
Air-cooled four-valve twin-cylinder engine
Bosch Motronic engine management system
Fuel injection
Three-way catalyst-equipped system
70 horsepower output
57 ft.-lbs torque figure
Stressed-member frame
Front Telelever suspension system
Rear Paralever suspension system
12.0 inch front disc brake
10.9 inch rear disc brake
Four-piston Brembo calipers
Three-spoke cast alloy wheels
Bridgestone Battlax radials
Stainless-steel exhaust system
Large, easily removable saddlebags
5.5-gallon fuel tank
Three-position adjustable seat
Cast-alloy handlebars
Side-stand cut-off switch
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*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
