BMW R 850 RT - 2002 Specifications and Reviews

The 2002 BMW R 850 RT is a midsize touring motorcycle designed for comfortable long-distance travel and everyday practicality. Its reliable 848cc boxer engine delivers smooth power with excellent torque, making it ideal for riders seeking a manageable platform that doesn't sacrifice capability. The R 850 RT is best known for its BMW engineering quality, shaft drive reliability, and balanced handling across varied terrain.

2002
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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2002
ModelBMW R 850 RT
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke70.0 x 87.0 mm (2.8 x 3.4 inches)
Top speed190.0 km/h (118.1 mph)
Torque80.00 Nm (8.2 kgf-m or 59.0 ft.lbs) @ 5500
Power73.00
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Capacity:848.00 ccm (51.74 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear tyre dimensions160/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR19
Rear suspension travel135 mm (5.3 inches)
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 gallons)
Fuel capacity21.00 litres (5.55 gallons)
Seat height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2589 HP/kg
Dry weight282.0 kg (621.7 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

73 hp
Peak Power
5.2s
0-60 mph
118.1 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track20%
City45%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding65%
Touring90%
Passenger80%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuited to riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, shaft-driven touring bike, though the manageable power makes it forgiving for those moving up from smaller machines.
PurposeBuilt primarily for long-distance, all-day touring with weather protection and comfort taking priority over outright speed or sportiness.
Rider FitThe 780mm seat height and 282kg dry weight mean shorter or less physically confident riders may find low-speed maneuvering and parking a bit demanding.
CharacterA calm, understated boxer-twin tourer that rewards smooth, relaxed riding over aggressive throttle inputs.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp acceleration, sporty cornering agility, or any off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2002 BMW R 850 RT Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 780mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2002 BMW R 850 RT, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). 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.

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