Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Competitors:
Honda VFR800, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1400 (earlier iterations), Triumph Trophy.
Engine Configuration:
Inline-four cylinder, longitudinal orientation.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive, a hallmark of BMW's larger motorcycles.
Suspension:
BMW's signature Duolever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension.
Electronics:
Often equipped with advanced ABS (Integral ABS) and optional traction control (ASC) on later models, though ASC was less common on the 2003 K1200RS.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Clutch assembly, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive) maintenance and repair.
Brakes:
ABS system (e.g., Integral ABS), brake fluid replacement, caliper service, disc inspection, hydraulic system bleeding.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery system, lighting, instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (Duolever), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system, frame inspection.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat adjustment, fuel tank maintenance, body panel repair.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, fault code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting.
Repair:
Engine component replacement, gearbox rebuild, suspension overhaul, electrical component repair.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all major components.
Depth:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system fault finding.
Engine Type:
Inline-four cylinder, four-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 130 hp (97 kW) at 8750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 117 Nm (86 lb-ft) at 6750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI recommended)
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
6-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual; typically close-ratio for sporty feel.
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for final drive).
Length:
Approx. 2,228 mm (87.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in) (including mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,320 mm (52.0 in) (at handlebars)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,571 mm (61.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 242 kg (533.5 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 265 kg (584.2 lbs) (fully fueled)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 21 liters (5.5 US gal)
ABS:
Integral ABS (Standard on many models, check specific VIN for confirmation)
Braking System:
Dual front discs (320mm), single rear disc (265mm) with multi-piston calipers. Integral ABS provides linked braking front to rear and anti-lock function.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight.
Frame:
Aluminum alloy bridge frame for rigidity and light weight.
Handling:
Designed for stability and long-distance comfort, benefiting from advanced suspension systems.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital display for odometer, trip meters, fuel level, gear indicator, clock, and warning lights. Analog tachometer and speedometer.
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems were available for some models, typically aftermarket integration.
Traction Control:
While not standard on all 2003 K1200RS models, ASC (Automatic Stability Control) was an option on later K-series bikes and is a feature to be aware of if present.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some variants for enhanced touring comfort.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic connectors for BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) are present, which this manual's diagnostic sections will reference.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Check Interval:
Typically every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Coolant Replacement:
Typically every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., BMW Advanced Oil 15W-50 or equivalent high-quality synthetic motorcycle oil).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (typically 50/50 with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (consult manual for precise specification).
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some early models experienced occasional fuel pump failures. Diagnosis usually involves checking fuel pressure.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or degradation of electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues, particularly in high-mileage bikes. Regular inspection is advised.
ABS Sensor Issues:
ABS sensors or wiring can be prone to dirt ingress or damage, leading to ABS system faults. Keeping them clean is important.
Clutch Actuator:
The hydraulic clutch actuator can sometimes develop leaks or require adjustment. The manual will detail the procedure.
Bmw Motorrad:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of engineering robust and technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for boxer-twin engines and later for their inline-four 'K' series.
K Series Origin:
The K1200RS evolved from the earlier K100 and K1100 series, representing a significant step up in performance and refinement for BMW's sport-touring segment.
K1200Rs Development:
The K1200RS (K589) introduced a more powerful engine and updated chassis compared to its predecessors, aiming to compete with Japanese and European sport-touring rivals.
Production Period:
The K1200RS model was produced from 1997 to 2004, with the 2003 model representing a mature iteration of the platform.
Sport Touring Accolades:
The K1200RS was generally well-regarded in its class for its blend of performance, comfort, and technological sophistication, often earning praise in motorcycling publications for its touring capabilities and handling.
Reliability Reputation:
BMW motorcycles, including the K-series, are generally known for good build quality and reliability when properly maintained, which this manual facilitates.
