BMW R 1100 S - 2003 Specifications and Reviews

The 2003 BMW R 1100 S is a sport-touring motorcycle that delivers spirited performance with practical versatility, appealing to riders seeking agile handling and comfortable long-distance capability. Its air-cooled boxer engine provides responsive power and torque, while the compact wheelbase enables confident cornering. Best known for balancing sportiness with the legendary reliability of BMW's boxer platform, it suits experienced riders who prioritize nimble dynamics and everyday usability.

Not Rated stars Average rating: Not Rated from 0 votes
.

About the BMW R 1100 S

Powered by an air and oil cooled 1,085.00cc Boxer flat twin cylinder four stroke engine, producing 98bhp.

The engine is derived from the R1100RS although the compression ratio has been tweaked along with changes to the air intake and forged connecting rods to increase the top speed and power.

Power is delivered to the rear wheel via shaft drive and the engine is a stressed member of the frame, just like the R1100RS

The look is unique with the single sided swingarm, low down Boxer engine, dual under seat exhaust system and asymmetrical headlights. 

Optional extras include 12V socket, 5.5" rear wheel (+0.5") with 180/55 tyre, engine spoiler, sports suspension set-up, tall screen, high handlebars, 2-level heated grips, hard panniers and ABS II.

Timeline

2002: Front discs were enlarged to 320mm.

BoxerCup Replica (2003): Main differences over the base bike are a revised fourth gear ratio from, wider 5.5" rear wheel with 180/55 tyre, engine spoiler, 60mm higher seat, Metzeler Sportek M1 tyres and Laser exhausts. Like the racing machines it also has a raised chassis with longer spring struts and Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) cylinder head covers.

General information

CategorySport touring
Year2003
ModelBMW R 1100 S

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Torque97.60
Power98.00
Stroke4
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer
Capacity:1085.00 ccm (66.21 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,487 mm (58.5 inches)
Seat height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight229.0 kg (504.9 pounds)

BMW R 1100 S dimensions and frame

Power/weight ratio0.4279 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsGray, Red, Gray/Mandarin, Blue
Fuel capacity19.00 litres (5.02 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

96.6 hp
Peak Power
3.4s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track55%
City45%
Cornering72%
Daily Riding60%
Touring72%
Passenger55%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to intermediate or experienced riders who can appreciate the boxer engine's distinct character and shaft-drive handling quirks.
PurposeDesigned as a sport tourer, blending brisk boxer-twin performance with long-distance comfort and shaft-drive practicality.
Rider FitThe 800mm seat height and moderate 229kg wet weight make it manageable for most adult riders, though the low-speed maneuvering requires some confidence.
CharacterA quirky, characterful machine with torque-rich boxer power delivery, Telelever front suspension feel, and sporty yet composed road manners.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for off-road adventures or riders seeking a lightweight, flickable city commuter.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2003 BMW R 1100 S Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 800mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2003 BMW R 1100 S, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (1)

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION Nov 2002 · 02V319000

ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE 3RD AND 4TH TRANSMISSION GEAR (SHIFT) WHEELS MAY NOT BE SECURELY SEATED ON THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. CONSEQUENTLY, WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT FROM 5TH TO 6TH GEAR, ENGAGEMENT OF THE TWO GEARS MAY OCCUR SIMULTANEOUSLY.

Risk: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE GEAR WHEELS COULD CRACK RESULTING IN A LOSS OF TRANSMISSION CAPABILITY, OR, A LOCK OF TRANSMISSION COULD OCCUR. THE REAR WHEEL COULD LOCK WHICH, DEPENDING UPON TRAFFIC AND ROAD CONDITIONS, AND THE RIDER'S REACTION, COULD AFFECT THE STABILITY OF THE MOTORCYCLE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE MOTORCYCLES AND REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION GEAR BOX IF NECESSARY. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117, OPTION #4.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.