Model Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Vehicle Platform:
K-Series (DOHC, 4-cylinder)
Market Segment:
Luxury Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops focused on maintaining and repairing the BMW K1200 LT-RS
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Kawasaki Concours, Yamaha Venture
Vehicle Highlights:
Comfortable touring capabilities, powerful inline-four engine, advanced suspension systems, integrated luggage, optional ABS and heated grips
Value To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and undertake significant repairs, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper care.
Primary Coverage:
Complete workshop service and repair
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, routine maintenance, component repair, electrical systems, chassis components
Estimated Page Count:
Over 800 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF), potentially searchable
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing chain, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module, timing
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, switches, instrument cluster, ECU (Engine Control Unit)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox internals, final drive, driveshaft, universal joints
Braking System:
Brake fluid, brake lines, master cylinder, brake calipers, brake discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (Duolever), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering head bearings, steering linkage
Chassis Bodywork:
Frame inspection, fairings, body panels, seat assembly, luggage system integration, exhaust system
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter service, coolant checks, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, error code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation of all major systems
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic steps for electrical and mechanical systems, potentially including scan tool procedures for ECU diagnostics
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and repair
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 100 hp (74 kW) @ 6,750 rpm (figures may vary slightly by year)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm (figures may vary slightly by year)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Capacity:
4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-50 (or 10W-40 depending on climate, refer to manual)
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 liters (2.6 US quarts)
Length:
Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 inches)
Width:
Approx. 980 mm (38.6 inches) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1500 mm (59.1 inches) at windshield
Dry Weight:
Approx. 334 kg (736 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 357 kg (787 lbs) (with all fluids)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 520 kg (1146 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed via rider skill and specific component design rather than standardized crash tests like cars)
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Braking Performance:
Large diameter dual front discs and single rear disc, utilizing 4-piston calipers
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, integrated turn signals, rear brake light, auxiliary driving lights (on some models)
Wind Protection:
Large adjustable windscreen and full fairing for rider comfort and protection
Audio System:
Integrated stereo system with cassette player and CD changer capability (optional) on many models
Controls:
Handlebar-mounted audio controls
ABS System:
BMW Motorrad ABS, a sophisticated system for its time, significantly enhancing braking safety.
Cruise Control:
Electric cruise control system available on some models
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) via specific BMW connectors, requiring specialized tools or adapters for advanced diagnostics.
Heated Grips Seats:
Heated grips and two-stage heated rider and passenger seats were common options.
Windshield Adjustment:
Electrically or manually adjustable windscreen for optimal wind deflection.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) for valve clearance checks, spark plug replacement, and detailed inspection
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Approved Motorcycle Oil 15W-50 (refer to manual for specific API or JASO ratings)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if specified for ABS system)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (BMW part number 83192211917 or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, ABS sensor rings, fuel pump O-rings
Potential Electrical Faults:
Wiring harness degradation, stator or regulator/rectifier failure, instrument cluster issues
Engine Maintenance Notes:
Valve clearance adjustments require specific tools and precise measurements for optimal performance and longevity.
Brand Focus:
BMW Motorrad is renowned for its engineering, quality, and rider-focused design, particularly in touring and sport-touring segments.
K Series Development:
The K1200 LT-RS is an evolution of BMW's longitudinal K-series engine configuration, which began with the K100 in the early 1980s, emphasizing smooth power delivery and shaft drive.
Lt Rs Distinction:
The 'LT' designation signifies 'Luxus Tourer' (Luxury Tourer), emphasizing comfort and amenities for long-distance riding. The 'RS' designation typically stands for 'Rennsport' (Racing Sport), though on this model it signifies a more performance-oriented, yet still comfortable, touring package compared to the base LT.
Production Period:
1997-2004
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Consistently received high marks from motorcycle journalists for its comfort, performance, and build quality in the sport-touring category.
Brand Reputation:
BMW's reputation for quality engineering and rider comfort is reflected in the K1200 LT-RS, making it a highly regarded touring machine.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured to strict BMW quality control standards, reflecting German engineering excellence.
