Vehicle Market Segment:
Sport Touring / Grand Tourer Motorcycle
Key Competitors Era:
Honda VFR, Kawasaki Concours, Yamaha FJR1300, Triumph Trophy
Vehicle Key Selling Points:
Long-distance comfort, powerful inline-four engine, shaft drive, sophisticated chassis, ABS, optional electronic suspension (ESA on later models, check for specific 2005 variant).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level service and repair guidance, essential for maintaining peak performance and reliability of the K1200RS.
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition system, exhaust system
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (gearbox), clutch, final drive (shaft drive)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS components included), wheels, tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, ECU, sensors, diagnostic connectors
Bodywork Coverage:
Fairing removal and installation, body panel repair, seating
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/shaft drive adjustment, brake pad replacement, fluid checks and changes
Repair Procedures:
Engine internal repairs, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting, brake caliper rebuild
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD)
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline-four cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement:
1171 cc (1.17 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Horsepower At Rpm:
Approx. 130 hp (97 kW) at 8,250 rpm
Torque At Rpm:
Approx. 117 Nm (86 lb-ft) at 6,750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (BMW's BMS-K system)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON / 91 AKI recommended)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (with filter change)
Recommended Oil Grade:
BMW recommends specific grades, typically synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher.
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in) (at handlebar)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 244 kg (538 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 450 kg (992 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 21 Liters (5.5 US gal)
ABS Availability:
Standard (BMW Integral ABS)
Braking System:
Hydraulically actuated dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake with ABS.
Suspension Features:
Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension for stability.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlights, integrated turn signals.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for gear selection, fuel level, trip computer, clock, engine warning lights.
ABS System:
BMW Integral ABS, a sophisticated anti-lock braking system providing coordinated braking when the brake lever is applied.
Diagnostic Port:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector, requiring specialized tools or adapters for full system access.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or bi-annually, involving checks on valve clearances, fuel system, brakes, etc.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (as per BMW specifications)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a BMW-approved mixture (e.g., BMW Motorrad Coolant Blue).
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to the manual for specific BMW transmission oil grades or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, fork seals, exhaust header pipe gaskets, final drive spline lubrication.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, some owners report occasional issues with the complex electrical system, requiring careful diagnosis. Check for recalls related to the ABS or instrument cluster.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some early K-series models experienced fuel pump issues; ensure proper functioning and consider a replacement if symptoms arise.
Bmw Motorcycle Division Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing innovative and high-quality motorcycles, known for their engineering prowess and reliability.
K Series Introduction:
The K-series, introduced in the early 1980s, represented BMW's move into multi-cylinder motorcycles, initially with the K100 and its transverse-mounted 'flying brick' engine. The K1200RS evolved from this platform, focusing on sport-touring capabilities.
K1200Rs Production Years:
The K1200RS was produced from 1997 to 2004, with the 2005 model year being the final iteration of this specific design before the introduction of the significantly revised K1200GT/R models.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany