Positioning:
High-performance sport-touring motorcycle, premium segment.
Competitors:
Honda VFR800, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1000, Ducati ST series.
Unique Selling Points:
BMW's characteristic inline-four engine with a longitudinal crank, advanced Telelever front suspension, shaft drive, integrated ABS (optional), comfortable ergonomics for long distances.
Intended User:
BMW K1200RS owners, independent motorcycle mechanics, enthusiasts performing their own maintenance and repairs.
Engine System:
Engine overhaul, top-end, bottom-end, timing, lubrication, cooling
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, throttle body
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control
Transmission System:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, shaft and gear inspection, shift mechanism
Chassis System:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front Telelever, rear Paralever), steering assembly
Braking System:
ABS II (if equipped), brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, fluid service
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, body panels
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire fitting and balancing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable), brake pad inspection, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and symptoms, fault code interpretation
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair
Special Tools:
Identification and use of BMW-specific or recommended special tools
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all systems
Schematics And Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams, exploded views, and system schematics
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-four cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64 mm (3.06 x 2.52 in)
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Hp:
134 hp (99 kW) @ 8500 rpm
Torque Lb-Ft:
81 lb-ft (110 Nm) @ 6750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Crankshaft Layout:
Longitudinal crankshaft
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-40 motorcycle oil (API SG or higher)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual, typically around 2.39:1 for 1st gear.
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 75W/90 GL-5 (or specified BMW equivalent)
Gearbox Oil Capacity Liters:
Approximately 1.5 liters
Length Mm:
2245 mm (88.4 in)
Width Mm:
920 mm (36.2 in) (at handlebars)
Height Mm:
1370 mm (53.9 in) (at handlebars)
Wheelbase Mm:
1522 mm (59.9 in)
Dry Weight Kg:
260 kg (573 lbs)
Wet Weight Kg:
283 kg (624 lbs) (with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity Liters:
21 liters (5.5 US gal)
Front Tire Size:
120/70 ZR17
Rear Tire Size:
170/60 ZR17
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Cast Aluminum Wheels)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle)
ABS:
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (optional, on some models)
Braking System Front:
Dual 320 mm discs, 4-piston calipers
Braking System Rear:
Single 265 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, fuel gauge, gear indicator, clock, engine temperature, warning lights.
ABS System:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS II, which provides linked braking.
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) port for electronic fault diagnosis.
Adjustable Windscreen:
Manually adjustable windscreen for rider comfort.
Oil Change Interval Km:
10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Major Service Interval Km:
20,000 km (12,000 miles) - includes valve clearance checks, spark plug replacement, etc.
Brake Fluid Change Interval Years:
Every 2 years
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water (BMW recommends specific coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for ABS II, consult manual for specific type)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, exhaust header pipe corrosion, occasional fuel pump issues, rear shock absorber degradation.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to minor electrical faults if not properly maintained or if corrosion sets in on connectors.
Key Checks:
Regular inspection of ABS sensors and wiring, Telelever pivot points, shaft drive spline lubrication.
Heritage Summary:
BMW's long history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering prowess, durability, and innovation in touring and sport-touring segments.
Predecessors:
K1100LT/RS, K100 series. The K1200RS represented a significant evolution in power and technology.
Successors:
K1200GT, K1200S, and subsequent K1300 series motorcycles.
Production Years For Model:
1996-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Awards Received:
Widely recognized for its comfort, handling, and performance in the sport-touring category by motorcycle publications during its production run.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently rated highly for its powerful engine, stable chassis, and long-distance capability.
