🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

K 1200 LT

Model Code:

K589

Generation:

First Generation (1999-2009)

Engine Code:

1100 M48

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Sport Touring Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Long-distance touring riders, those seeking comfort, features, and BMW engineering

Key Competitors:

Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha FJR1300, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

Distinctive Features:

Powerful boxer engine, integrated fairing with wind protection, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, extensive luggage capacity, advanced rider aids (ABS, heated grips/seats)

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level technical information essential for maintaining and repairing the K 1200 LT, enabling owners to perform tasks safely and effectively.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance

Specific Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical System, Bodywork, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Instrumentation, Controls, Accessories

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, valve clearance adjustment, piston/cylinder, crankshaft, camshafts, oil pump, torque specifications

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator, diagnostic procedures

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant types, bleed procedures, water pump

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler, oil change procedures, fluid specifications, oil pressure checks

Drivetrain Transmission:

Clutch operation, gearbox inspection and repair, final drive (driveshaft and bevel gear), lubrication, fluid specifications

Suspension Steering:

Front fork (Telelever/Duolever variants), rear shock absorber (Paralever), steering head bearings, wheel alignment, torque values

Brakes:

ABS (Integral ABS), brake fluid types, bleeding procedures, caliper service, disc inspection, master cylinder, wear limits

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU functions

Bodywork Fairings:

Fairing removal and installation, body panel repair, seat adjustment, luggage systems

Instrumentation Controls:

Dashboard, gauges, switches, lever controls, electronic adjustments

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, drive shaft spline lubrication, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, valve clearance checks

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts, symptom-based troubleshooting

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly for all major vehicle systems

Technical Data:

Torque specifications, tolerances, diagnostic specifications, electrical resistance values

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW specific tools required for maintenance and repair

Depth:

Full workshop level; suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF for quick information retrieval, high-resolution images and diagrams

Quality:

Professionally scanned, clear and legible text and graphics

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Type:

Four-stroke, air/oil-cooled, flat-twin (boxer) engine

Displacement:

1171 cc (71.6 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

99 mm x 75 mm (3.90 in. x 2.95 in.)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic MA 2.4

Horsepower:

100 hp (74 kW) @ 6750 rpm

Torque:

82 lb-ft (111 Nm) @ 4750 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded premium gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gal)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch

Final Drive:

Shaft drive

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios

Gearbox Oil:

SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, API GL-5 (BMW recommend BMW Motorrad Gear Oil)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,340 mm (92.1 in.)

Width:

Approx. 960 mm (37.8 in.) (over mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in.) (to handlebar top)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 337 kg (743 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 550 kg (1213 lbs)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 213 kg (470 lbs)

Front Tire Size:

120/70 R 18

Rear Tire Size:

170/80 R 15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

N/A (Magnesium alloy wheels, specific BMW fitment)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS System:

BMW Integral ABS (optional on some models, standard on later ones)

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake, linked braking system (Integral ABS)

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, integrated turn signals

Ergonomics:

Comfort-oriented seating position, adjustable handlebars and levers, wind protection via large fairing and windscreen

Ride Enhancements:

Heated grips, heated seat (rider and passenger)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Integrated audio system with radio, CD player, and often handlebar-mounted controls

Display:

Multi-function LCD display for speed, RPM, fuel level, gear indicator, ambient temperature, clock, and trip data

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

ABS:

Integral ABS (often optional, but highly recommended)

Accessory Options:

Provision for GPS mounting, auxiliary power outlets

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually

Air Filter Check:

Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 20,000 km (12,500 miles)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km (12,500 miles)

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 (API SG/SH/SJ or higher), oil capacity with filter: 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Coolant:

BMW Motorrad Coolant (ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, wheel bearings, fuel pump, final drive spline lubrication (requires regular greasing to prevent premature wear)

Electrical Quirks:

Occasional sensor issues, wiring harness connectors requiring inspection and cleaning

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)

History Segment:

Long history in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for engineering and touring capabilities.

Introduction Year:

1999

Updates:

Significant updates to the engine (from 1100cc to 1171cc), electronic systems, and comfort features throughout its production run.

Production Period:

1999 - 2009

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

Praised by motorcycle publications for its touring comfort, performance, and build quality during its production era.