Market Position:
The BMW K1200LT was positioned as a premier luxury touring motorcycle, designed for long-distance comfort and equipped with a comprehensive suite of features for rider and passenger enjoyment.
Competitors:
Competed with other large-displacement touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (Gold Wing), Harley-Davidson (Electra Glide), and Kawasaki (Voyager).
Key Features:
Powerful inline-four engine, integrated fairings for wind protection, extensive luggage capacity, rider and passenger comfort features (e.g., heated grips, adjustable seat, stereo system), advanced suspension systems, and ABS.
Covered Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Manual Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely Printed, Digital (PDF) potential
Engine:
Detailed coverage of the K1200LT's DOHC inline-four engine, including cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition system, and exhaust system.
Transmission:
Comprehensive information on the 5-speed sequential manual gearbox, clutch assembly, and final drive (shaft drive) operation, maintenance, and repair.
Electrical:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, diagnostic strategies for lighting, starting and charging system, ignition, fuel injection, instrumentation, ABS, audio system, and auxiliary power outlets.
Chassis:
Detailed procedures for front suspension (Duolever), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system, brake system (including ABS components), and fuel tank removal/installation.
Bodywork:
Instructions for fairing removal and installation, seat assembly, luggage system (top case, panniers), and general body panel maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid service, clutch fluid service, tire pressure checks, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common issues, electrical faults, engine performance problems, braking system anomalies, and suspension irregularities.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine internal repairs, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, and electrical component repair.
Component Replacement:
Guidance on replacing parts such as fuel injectors, sensors, clutch plates, brake pads, shock absorbers, and wheel bearings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both experienced DIY mechanics and professional service technicians. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
File Format:
Assuming PDF for digital version; high-resolution scans for print quality.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, clear diagrams and text for easy readability.
Binding Type:
Staple-bound or perfect bound for durability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, grease-resistant paper suitable for workshop use.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, inline four-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.8:1
Horsepower Approx:
98 hp (72 kW) @ 7500 rpm (approximate, subject to specific year/region)
Torque Approx:
110 Nm (81 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (approximate, subject to specific year/region)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 fuel injection with electronic throttle control
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON)
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil recommended
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (4.2 US qt)
Coolant Type:
BMW Coolant - Ethylene Glycol based with corrosion inhibitors (blue color)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters (2.6 US qt)
Transmission Type:
5-speed sequential manual gearbox
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate clutch, operated hydraulically
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 80W/90 Hypoid gear oil
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.20 Liters (0.21 US qt)
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS (available as option or standard depending on market/year), often referred to as Generation 2 ABS.
Braking System:
Dual 305 mm discs with four-piston calipers (front), Single 285 mm disc with two-piston caliper (rear).
Lighting:
Halogen dual headlights, LED taillight and brake light.
Audio System:
Often equipped with an integrated premium audio system (radio, CD player, cassette player on early models) with handlebar-mounted controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control for effortless long-distance riding.
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS system, which combines braking at both wheels with a single lever pull, and can be disengaged.
Auxiliary Power:
12V auxiliary power outlet for charging accessories.
Heated Grips:
Standard or optional multi-stage heated grips for rider comfort.
Heated Seat:
Optional heated rider and passenger seats.
Electric Windscreen:
Power-adjustable windscreen for optimal rider protection and airflow.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or biennially.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on riding conditions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 km (18,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW recommends specific BMW Motorrad branded oil or equivalent meeting API SG/JASO MA standards, SAE 20W-50.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Clutch Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Common Issues:
Potential issues include ABS modulator failures, alternator/regulator problems, fuel pump issues, and wear on the Duolever suspension pivot bearings. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly in the touring segment, dating back to the early 20th century.
Evolution:
The K1200LT is a successor to earlier K-series touring models like the K1100LT. It represented BMW's commitment to providing a supremely comfortable and feature-rich large touring platform.
Production Years:
1997-2008 (with specific model updates and iterations within this range).
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
