Naked Motorcycles
1998BMW R 850 R
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The 1998 BMW R 850 R is a versatile naked bike that appeals to riders seeking a reliable, comfortable middleweight with classic boxer character. Its air-cooled 848cc twin delivers smooth power and impressive torque, making it equally suited for commuting and weekend touring. Known for its shaft-drive dependability and accessible seat height, it remains a favorite among both experienced riders and those transitioning to larger displacement machines.
- Capacity
- 848.0 ccm
- Engine
- Boxer
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 214.0 kg
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
What’s new for the 1998 BMW R 850 R
vs the 1997| Spec | 1997 | 1998 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) | 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM |
| Seat height | 780 mm (30.7 inches) | 760 mm (29.9 inches) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a comfortable, practical all-rounder for commuting, backroad riding, and light touring rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- A classic BMW boxer-twin character: relaxed, torque-driven, mechanically distinctive, and reassuringly stable rather than exciting.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders chasing high-speed thrills, track-day lap times, or any serious off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 848.0 ccm
- Power
- 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM
- Torque
- 77.0 Nm (7.9 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- Boxer
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3271 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 87.5 x 70.5 mm
- Compression
- 10.3:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
- Clutch
- Single-disc dry clutch, hydraulically operated
Performance
- Top speed
- 190.0 km/h (118.1 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1487 mm
- Seat height
- 760 mm
- Dry weight
- 214.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 21.00 litres
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1996 | 1998 | 1999 | 2001 | 2004 | 2006 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 848 cc | 848 cc | 848 cc | 848 cc | 848 cc | 848 cc |
| Dry weight | — | 214 kg | 218 kg | — | 218 kg | 218 kg |
| Seat height | 780 mm | 760 mm | 760 mm | 760 mm | 770 mm | 800 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 19 L | 21 L | 21 L | 19 L | 20.5 L | 20.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the BMW R 850 R?
The 1998 BMW R 850 R has a Capacity of 848.0 ccm (51.75 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW R 850 R have?
The 1998 BMW R 850 R has a Power of 70.0 HP (51.5 kW) @ 7000 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW R 850 R have?
The 1998 BMW R 850 R has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the BMW R 850 R?
The 1998 BMW R 850 R has a Torque of 77.0 Nm (7.9 kgf-m or 56.8 ft.lbs).
How much does the BMW R 850 R weigh?
The 1998 BMW R 850 R has a Dry weight of 214.0 kg (471.8 pounds).
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