Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Competitors:
Honda VFR, Kawasaki GTR, Yamaha FJR
Performance Focus:
Engineered for high-speed touring with comfort and capability.
Technical Innovation:
BMW's signature boxer-twin engine configuration (though K-series is inline-four) and shaft drive for low maintenance.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, lubrication, and cooling systems.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, servicing of injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel tank.
Ignition System:
Spark plug replacement, ignition coil testing, ECU diagnostics, and timing adjustments.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Gearbox inspection and repair, clutch service, final drive unit maintenance, and driveshaft lubrication.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system servicing, ABS diagnostics, caliper overhaul, brake pad and disc replacement, and brake fluid bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component inspection, fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, and linkage lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, starter motor and alternator testing, lighting system troubleshooting, and dashboard instrumentation.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection for damage, steering head bearing service, and component mounting checks.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, and accessory mounting.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustments, and periodic inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, with symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing individual parts and sub-assemblies.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive guides for overhauling major components like the engine and transmission.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and assembly points.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Inline-Four Cylinder, Four-Stroke
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 67.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
100 HP (approx. at 7500 rpm)
Torque:
76 lb-ft (approx. at 6000 rpm)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (Minimum)
Fuel Capacity:
21 Liters (5.5 US gal)
Oil Type:
BMW recommends API SG or higher motorcycle-specific oil, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 245 kg (540 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in typical motorcycle manuals, but implies capacity for rider, passenger, and luggage.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,571 mm (61.9 in)
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital odometer, trip meters, clock, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge.
ABS System:
Bosch ABS II (if equipped)
Diagnostic Port:
Features a diagnostic port for connection to BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., MoDiTec).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Type:
BMW recommends a mixture of distilled water and a high-quality ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix).
Typical Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fork seals, swingarm bearings, wheel bearings, alternator brushes.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, some owners report minor electrical issues over time, often related to connectors or grounds.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models might have had occasional fuel pump issues, though often remedied with proper maintenance.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad boasts a long history of engineering excellence, renowned for reliable and innovative motorcycles.
K Series Origin:
The K series, introduced in the early 1980s, marked BMW's move to inline engines, offering a distinct alternative to their traditional boxer twins.
K1200Rs Development:
The K1200RS was designed as a high-performance sport-tourer, building on the K1100RS platform with increased power and refined ergonomics.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Production Years:
1997-2000 (for this specific generation)
