Segment:
Luxury Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance touring riders, owners seeking DIY maintenance and repair capabilities.
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Yamaha Royal Star Venture.
Vehicle Highlights:
Comfortable ergonomics, extensive fairing for weather protection, integrated luggage, advanced technology for its era, powerful inline-four engine.
Value:
Empowers owners to maintain their premium BMW motorcycle, saving money on dealership services and ensuring proper upkeep for longevity and performance.
Covered Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, component diagnostics, timing, fuel injection, cooling system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (if applicable, though LT is primarily automatic/sequential), clutch, gearbox overhaul, fluid service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, ECU, ABS, traction control (ASC), heated grips/seats.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, forks, shock absorbers, steering, wheel bearings, drive shaft, final drive.
Braking System:
Hydraulic braking system, ABS, brake fluid service, pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, body panel repair, seat removal, luggage system components.
Comfort Features:
Heated grips, heated seats, cruise control, electric windscreen adjustment, audio system.
Maintenance:
Routine service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, brake checks, tire pressure and wear.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), symptom-based problem solving.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair of all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and component-level repair.
Engine Type:
Inline Four-cylinder, Four-stroke
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
78.8 mm x 61.7 mm (3.10 x 2.43 in)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
98 hp (73 kW) @ 6750 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
115 Nm (85 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON / 91 AKI)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US qt) with filter change
Recommended Oil Grade:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission with Integral Clutch
Type:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual (typically around 1.5-2.0 liters)
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific BMW recommended gearbox oil.
Length:
Approx. 2480 mm (97.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in) at seat height
Dry Weight:
Approx. 303 kg (668 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to manual (typically around 500 kg)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
25 liters (6.6 US gal)
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS (standard on most models)
Traction Control:
BMW Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available on some models.
Braking System:
Dual 305 mm front discs with 4-piston calipers, Single 284 mm rear disc with 2-piston caliper (ABS integrated).
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, integrated turn signals, LED taillight.
Wind Protection:
Full fairing with electrically adjustable windscreen.
Audio System:
Integrated audio system with AM/FM radio, cassette player (early models) or CD player (later models), speakers, and often provision for external audio sources.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system for highway comfort.
ABS:
BMW Integral Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with synchronized braking function.
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) for enhanced traction in various conditions.
Communication:
Pre-wired for communication systems, often includes intercom capability.
Heated Grips:
Standard heated handlebar grips.
Heated Seat:
Standard heated rider and passenger seats.
Windscreen:
Electrically adjustable windscreen for optimal rider comfort.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles) or as specified in the manual.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Final Drive Oil Change:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad Approved SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for Integral ABS system).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (BMW recommends specific coolant).
Common Problems:
Fuel pump relay failures, alternator issues, starter motor solenoid problems, ABS sensor failures, aging rubber components (hoses, mounts).
Maintenance Tips:
Regular inspection of electrical connectors, timely replacement of wear items, and proper battery maintenance are crucial for this model.
Heritage:
BMW has a long history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence, reliability, and rider-focused design, particularly in the touring segment.
Successor:
K1200LT (later models, post-2004 received significant updates or were replaced by new K1600 series)
Manufacturing Plant:
Berlin, Germany
Production Period:
1997-2004
Typical Awards:
BMW motorcycles often receive praise in motorcycle publications for build quality, engineering, and touring capability. Specific awards for the K1200LT would be found in contemporary motorcycle reviews.
Build Quality:
High (as expected from BMW)
Emissions:
Meets relevant emissions standards for its production years.
