R 850 C Avantgarde

2001 BMW R 850 C Avantgarde Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around BMW's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2001 BMW R 850 C Avantgarde relies on a 848 cc (51.7 cu in) air-cooled two cylinder boxer, four-stroke powerplant. 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 C Avantgarde measures 256 kg (564 lbs) wet (curb), 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 160 km/h (99 mph).