BMW R 850 GS (1998-1999) Specs, Performance & Photos

The BMW R 850 GS was the smaller companion of the R1100GS, being in production as a cheaper alternative. The bikes were aesthetically and mechanically identical, the only differences being the tank badges and the engine.

In 1998, the German motorcycle manufacturer released the BMW R 850 GS, a dual-sports middle-class machine created by BMW for those riders who wanted to explore as much as possible, whether on or off-road.

The motorcycle was manufactured around a three-section composite frame with a 35 mm BMW Motorrad Telelever system on the front that provided 120 mm of travel and a BMW Motorrad Paralever system on the rear with 135 mm of travel.

The bike's wire-spoke wheels were fitted with two 305 mm brake rotors tied to four-piston calipers on the front and a 276 mm brake disc engaged by a dual-piston caliper on the rear wheel, offering optimum stopping performance.

As for power, the 1998 BMW R 850 GS had its soul brought to life by an 848cc four-stroke air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine mounted underneath the fuel tank, delivering 73 hp at 6,750 rpm and 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) torque at 5,600 rpm.

In the aesthetic department, the motorcycle had standard features, like a front mudguard mounted close to the wheel, a high-mounted front beak, a rectangular headlight, a small windscreen, a two-piece dual seat with a passenger grab handle, an up-swept exhaust system, a center stand, a single-sided swingarm, and wire-spoke wheels.