Segment:
Luxury Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance touring riders seeking comfort, performance, and advanced features.
Key Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager.
Features:
Comfortable rider and passenger seating, integrated audio system, electric reverse, generous luggage capacity, advanced suspension, and robust engine.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain and repair the K1200LT, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Electrical Systems, Chassis, Engine, Transmission, Bodywork, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Instruments, Controls, Lighting, Accessories
Estimated Page Count:
400-600
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Detailed breakdown of the K589 inline four-cylinder engine, including cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, throttle body diagnostics, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shifting mechanisms, and transmission fluid specifications and change intervals.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, starter motor, alternator, ignition system, lighting circuits, ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System), and accessory electrical systems.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, front suspension (Paralever), rear suspension, and wheel bearing maintenance.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system components, ABS II diagnostics and bleeding procedures, brake pad and disc replacement, and brake fluid specifications.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, fluid level checks, brake adjustments, and tire pressure monitoring.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues related to engine performance, starting problems, electrical faults, and braking system malfunctions.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, and electrical system component repair.
Specific Tasks:
Timing chain inspection, clutch cable adjustment, ABS sensor replacement, alternator belt replacement, and dashboard indicator light explanations.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed torque specifications for all fasteners.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
98 hp (73 kW) @ 7500 rpm
Torque:
115 Nm (85 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are typically not categorized like automobiles).
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Not Equipped
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, integrated turn signals, and prominent tail/brake lights.
Windscreen:
Large, adjustable electric windscreen for rider comfort and protection.
Audio System:
Integrated Clarion audio system with AM/FM radio, cassette player (early models) and CD player (later models), often with handlebar controls and passenger controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system for comfortable long-distance riding.
ABS:
Integral ABS II, providing combined braking action and enhanced stopping power.
Diagnostic Interface:
Diagnostic port for connecting specialized BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1 or ISTA/D) for advanced troubleshooting and module programming. Manual details basic checks.
Electric Reverse:
Electric starter motor doubles as a reverse gear, assisting in maneuvering the heavy touring bike.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific oil type and quantity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles). Consult manual for correct spark plug type (e.g., NGK CR9EK).
Air Filter Service:
Inspect every 10,000 km (6,200 miles), replace as needed. Consult manual for part number (e.g., BMW 13721464618).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage. Use DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-40, API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil. Capacity approx. 4.5 liters with filter change. Consult manual for exact specification and part number (e.g., BMW Advanced Oil 5W-40).
Transmission Oil:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.2 liters. Consult manual for exact specification and part number (e.g., BMW Hypoid Gear Oil 75W-90).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50% mixture with distilled water. Consult manual for BMW approved coolant (e.g., BMW Blue Coolant).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Rear shock absorber (can weaken over time), clutch slave cylinder seal, fuel pump, and starter motor brushes.
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional issues with ABS sensors, wiring harness connectors, and dashboard displays. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Engine Vibrations:
While generally smooth, some riders report increased vibrations at certain RPMs. Manual covers engine mounting and balance checks.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), Germany.
Motorsport Legacy:
BMW has a long and successful history in motorcycle racing and production, known for engineering excellence and innovation.
K Series Introduction:
The K series, introduced in 1983, revolutionized BMW motorcycles with its inline four-cylinder engine, initially featuring shaft drive.
K1200Lt Development:
The K1200LT was developed as BMW's flagship touring motorcycle, building upon the K1100LT and introducing enhanced comfort, features, and performance.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau plant)
Production Run:
Produced from 1999 through 2008, with the 1999-2004 models representing the initial generation.
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by motorcycle publications for its comfort, touring capability, and engineering.
Customer Satisfaction:
High customer satisfaction ratings for long-distance comfort and reliability when properly maintained.
Manual Quality:
Official BMW service information often forms the basis for such comprehensive repair manuals, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
