Market Segment:
Luxury Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent motorcycle workshops
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Yamaha Royal Star Venture
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with comprehensive technical knowledge for quality DIY repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring optimal vehicle performance.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, drive shaft, final drive maintenance
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (Paralever), rear suspension, wheel bearings, steering system, braking system (ABS diagnostics and repair)
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting system, charging system, starter system, fuel injection system diagnostics, ABS control module, comfort electronics (heated grips, seat, cruise control)
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat adjustments, luggage system components, body panel repair and alignment
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, valve clearance adjustment
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, electrical system troubleshooting and repair
Diagnostics:
Fault code retrieval, component testing, troubleshooting common issues
Depth:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions, torque specifications, component tolerances
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, horizontally opposed four-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
72.6 mm x 70.0 mm (2.86 x 2.76 in)
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 100 hp (75 kW) @ 7500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 117 Nm (86 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with BMW's Motronic system
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium, Octane Rating 91+
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change
Oil Specification:
SAE 20W-40 or SAE 15W-50, API SG/SH or JASO MA certified (consult manual for exact BMW specification)
Gearbox Type:
Constant-mesh 5-speed manual transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Transmission Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Length:
Approx. 2305 mm (90.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 990 mm (39.0 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1520 mm (59.8 in) at windshield
Dry Weight:
Approx. 337 kg (743 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 540 kg (1190 lbs)
Front Tire Size:
120/70 ZR 17
Rear Tire Size:
170/80 ZR 15
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1618 mm (63.7 in)
Safety Features:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), advanced chassis design for stability
Braking System:
Dual 320 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 284 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear), integrated ABS
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, integrated turn signals
Crash Protection:
Sturdy frame construction, ergonomic rider seating position
Audio System:
Integrated stereo radio with CD player and speakers (often with cassette option on earlier models, but CD is standard for 2003).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control for relaxed long-distance riding.
ABS System:
Integral ABS, seamlessly integrated into the braking system for enhanced safety.
Diagnostic Port:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector, allowing for advanced electronic diagnostics with compatible tools. The manual will explain its use and basic troubleshooting.
Heated Elements:
Heated grips and heated rider/passenger seats for enhanced comfort in varying weather conditions.
Wind Protection:
Large adjustable windscreen with electric height adjustment for optimal rider and passenger comfort and reduced wind fatigue.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Valve Check Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Type:
BMW Motorrad Coolant (ethylene glycol-based, 50% mix with distilled water)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, paralever pivot bearings, rear shock absorber (depending on mileage and usage)
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with dashboard indicators or sensor readings due to complex electronics and aging wiring (covered by detailed troubleshooting in manual)
Final Drive Maintenance:
Regular inspection and lubrication of the final drive splines are crucial to prevent premature wear. The manual will detail this procedure.
Manufacturer Heritage:
BMW Motorrad, renowned for engineering excellence, innovation, and premium quality motorcycles since 1923.
K Series Legacy:
The K1200LT is part of BMW's K-series, known for its inline-four engines and advanced technology, evolving from earlier K100 and K1100 models.
K1200Lt Development:
Introduced in 1997, the K1200LT was designed as a full-dress touring motorcycle, emphasizing comfort, wind protection, and long-distance capabilities. The 2003 model features updates from its predecessors.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany