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Custom - Cruiser · 2002

R 850 Avantgarde C

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MotoLibrary Score
49 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.2 hp/kg
Top Speed
155 km/h
Torque
71 Nm
Engine
848 ccm

2002 BMW R 850 Avantgarde C Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around BMW's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2002 BMW R 850 Avantgarde C utilizes a 848 cc (51.7 cu in) two cylinder boxer, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 50 HP (36.5 kW) at 5,250 rpm while maximum torque reaches 71 Nm (52.4 lb-ft) at 4,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 59 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (4,750 rpm) and peak power (5,250 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the R 850 Avantgarde C measures 256 kg (564 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (5.12 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 740 mm (29.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,650 mm (65 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 155 km/h (96 mph).

Specific Output
59 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.2 HP/kg (5.12 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,750–5,250 rpm
Standover Height
740 mm (29.1 in)
Engine
Displacement 848.0 ccm (51.74 cubic inches)
Engine Type Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine Details Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power 50.0 HP (36.5 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
Torque 71.0 Nm (7.2 kgf-m or 52.4 ft.lbs) @ 4750 RPM
Bore x Stroke 87.5 x 70.5 mm (3.4 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 4
Fuel System Injection
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Shaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)
Chassis
Front Suspension Telelever
Front Travel 144 mm (5.7 inches)
Rear Suspension Monolever
Rear Travel 100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase 1650 mm (65.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 100/90-ZR18
Rear Tyre 170/80-ZR15
Front Brakes Double disc
Front Brake Ø 305 mm (12.0 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc
Rear Brake Ø 285 mm (11.2 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 256.0 kg (564.4 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1953 HP/kg
Seat Height 740 mm (29.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel 4.00 litres (1.06 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric
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Power
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Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
✌️
Best For
Cruising & Touring
📏
Seat Height
74 cm / 29.1 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
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