Market Position:
Luxury touring motorcycle, flagship model for BMW Motorrad in its segment during the specified years.
Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Kawasaki Voyager, Yamaha Royal Star Venture.
Key Features Vehicle:
Opposed-four-cylinder engine, shaft drive, extensive fairing for weather protection, integrated audio system, cruise control, electric reverse, ample luggage capacity.
Key Features Manual:
Detailed procedural steps, clear diagrams and illustrations, comprehensive troubleshooting guides, specifications and tolerances.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (EFI), ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication, starting and charging
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive), transmission fluid
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (telelever), rear suspension (paralever), wheel bearings, steering head bearings
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems (ABS functionality, fluid, caliper service, disc replacement)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, charging system, starter motor, electronic control units (ECUs), diagnostics
Bodywork Body Panels:
Fairings, luggage systems, seats, body panel removal and installation
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, spark plug replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension servicing, electrical component replacement, brake system repairs
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides, fault code interpretation, common problem identification
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive: covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and tuning adjustments.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, Boxer-twin (opposed-four cylinder configuration, though often referred to as a Boxer-twin due to engine layout), DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.
Displacement:
1171 cc (later models 1172 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 78.8 mm x 70.5 mm (varies slightly by model year)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 10.5:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 98-100 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 101-103 Nm (74.5-75.9 lb-ft) @ 5250-5500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Motronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane (RON)
Length:
Approx. 2465 mm (97.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 960 mm (37.8 in) (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1540 mm (60.6 in) (with windscreen)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 303 kg (668 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 323 kg (712 lbs) (fully fueled and ready to ride)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 219 kg (483 lbs)
Fuel Capacity:
21 liters (5.5 US gal), including a 3.5 liter reserve
ABS System:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) - standard on most models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, integrated turn signals, hazard lights.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy aluminum frame and robust suspension systems contribute to stability.
Braking Performance:
Dual disc front brakes with 4-piston calipers, single disc rear brake with 2-piston caliper, backed by ABS.
Audio System:
Integrated radio/cassette (later models CD player) with speakers, often with handlebar controls. Ability to connect external music players (e.g., via AUX input on some models).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
ABS:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Diagnostics:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic connector for engine management and ABS system checks.
Electrical Complexity:
Significant electrical system due to comprehensive features (audio, cruise control, ABS, heated grips/seats).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Filter Replacement:
Oil filter: With every oil change. Air filter: Inspect every 10,000 km, replace as needed or at 20,000 km.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Valve Clearance Check:
First check at 20,000 km, then every 40,000 km (24,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW recommends SAE 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic motorcycle oil meeting BMW approval (e.g., BMW Longlife-04, but check specific manual for older approvals). Check viscosity based on ambient temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW approved coolant, typically a mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil Type:
BMW recommends SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for the final drive.
Known Issues:
Consistent voltage regulator failures, alternator issues, ABS modulator problems, clutch slave cylinder leaks, occasional dashboard electronic glitches, fuel pump relay issues.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing high-quality, technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for its Boxer engines and touring capabilities.
Model Lineage:
The K1200LT evolved from earlier K-series inline-four and flat-four models, specifically building upon the success of the K1100LT and K1200RS, adapting the platform for ultimate long-distance touring.
Production Years:
1997-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Awards:
While specific annual awards are not readily documented, the K1200LT was consistently lauded by motorcycle publications for its comfort, performance, and touring prowess, often being ranked among the top luxury touring motorcycles.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally received high marks for comfort, handling for its size, and long-distance capability.
