Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
BMW K1200RS owners seeking self-maintenance capabilities, independent repair shops, and enthusiasts focused on detailed technical knowledge.
Competitors At Launch:
Honda VFR800/VFRInterceptor, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJR1300 (later models), Ducati ST series.
Engine Configuration:
Longitudinal inline-four cylinder engine
Suspension Design:
BMW's Paralever single-sided swingarm with Monolever front suspension (early versions) and Telelever front suspension (later versions influenced by K1200LT).
Electronics:
Advanced for its time, including sophisticated fuel injection and optional ABS.
Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Repair and Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, valve train, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (BMS), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox inspection and repair, final drive, driveshaft
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (forks), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system
Brakes:
Brake system (front and rear), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, caliper service, rotor inspection
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement
Bodywork Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat removal, tank cover access
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common problem diagnosis
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain/shaft maintenance, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes
Major Overhauls:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement
Component Replacement:
Brake pads, spark plugs, battery, tires, bulbs, cables
Adjustment Procedures:
Throttle cable, clutch cable, idle speed, suspension sag
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostics for various system failures
Wiring Diagram Analysis:
Interpreting electrical schematics for fault finding and repair
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and diagnostic routines.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (later increased)
Bore X Stroke:
70.5 mm x 75 mm (initial)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 107-110 hp @ 8000 rpm (early models), later models around 125-130 hp
Torque:
Approx. 95-100 Nm @ 6750 rpm (early models), later models around 115-120 Nm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (BMW Motor-Management System - BMS)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (95 RON minimum recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 Liters (approx.)
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad Integral ABS available on some models
Braking System:
Hydraulic dual disc front brakes, Hydraulic single disc rear brake
Suspension Stability:
Paralever rear and Telelever front suspension designed for stability during braking and cornering.
Fairing Protection:
Full aerodynamic fairing providing wind and weather protection.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights for good visibility
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, gear indicator, and warning lights. Often includes a digital clock and trip meter.
ABS:
Optional BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) provided enhanced safety and stability.
Diagnostics Port:
On-board diagnostics connector for fault code reading and system analysis.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific grade and capacity).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (critical for engine health).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 3-4 years or as per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic motorcycle oil, e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for precise BMW specifications and capacities).
Transmission Oil:
Gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact BMW specification and capacity).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (BMW approved mix, typically 50/50 with distilled water).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension seals (forks, shock), wheel bearings, fuel pump issues (early models), starter motor solenoid.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to electrical issues due to complex wiring, particularly related to the ABS and BMS systems. Loose connections or corrosion can cause intermittent problems.
Thermostat Housing:
Potential for leaks from the thermostat housing or associated hoses.
ABS Module Failures:
ABS control modules can be expensive to replace if they fail. Proper maintenance of the ABS sensors and fluid is crucial.
Industry Recognition:
Widely praised for its comfort, wind protection, and long-distance capability. Competed effectively in the premium sport-touring market.
Rider Magazine Reviews:
Consistently rated highly for its performance, handling, and build quality by major motorcycle publications of its era.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with European emissions standards applicable during its production years.