BMW R 850 GS (1999-2000) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1999, the German motorcycle manufacturer released the BMW R 850 GS, a dual-sports middle-class motorcycle that debuted in 1996 and continued production until 2001. It was the smaller-capacity sister model of the BMW R1150GS and was mechanically and cosmetically similar, with the only difference being the engine displacement.

The 1999 motorcycle came in the same shape and form as the previous one, delivering the same visual, technical, and performance specifications. It didn't feature any significant modifications whatsoever.

In the visual department, the bike 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.

As for the power figures, the 1999 BMW R 850 GS had installed an 848cc four-stroke twin-cylinder air/oil-cooled boxer engine at its core, boasting 73 hp at 6,750 rpm and 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) torque at 5,600 rpm.

The R 850 GS was made around a three-section composite frame with a 35 mm BMW Motorrad Telelever system on the front that offered 120 mm of travel and a BMW Motorrad Paralever system on the rear with 135 mm of travel.

In the braking department, the bike relied on two 305 mm brake discs engaged by four-piston calipers on the front and a 276 mm brake rotor with a dual-piston caliper on the rear wheel, providing optimum stopping performance.