🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

K1200LT

Motorcycle Type:

Luxury Sport Touring

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The K1200LT was BMW's flagship luxury touring motorcycle, designed for long-distance comfort and performance. It competed directly with other high-end touring machines from Japanese and American manufacturers.

Competitive Analysis Overview:

Positioned against models like the Honda Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, the K1200LT offered BMW's signature engineering, shaft drive, and a distinct riding experience.

Key Features Of Vehicle:

Powerful inline-four engine, shaft drive, advanced suspension systems (Telelever front, Paralever rear), integrated fairing with excellent weather protection, standard luggage, optional amenities like heated grips/seats, cruise control, and powerful audio systems.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Clutch, Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Braking System (ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Chassis, Bodywork, Instruments & Controls, Comfort Systems (Heated Grips/Seats), Luggage Systems

Page Count:

Estimated 500-800+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Coverage:

Detailed disassembly and reassembly of the 1171cc inline-four cylinder engine, including cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, oil pump, timing chain, and lubrication system.

Fuel System Coverage:

Fuel injection system (EFI) diagnostics, injector servicing, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulation, and throttle body synchronization.

Ignition System Coverage:

Ignition coil testing, spark plug specifications, electronic ignition control unit (ECU) diagnostics.

Drivetrain Coverage:

Clutch operation and maintenance, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, final drive (Paralever system) inspection and servicing, driveshaft and U-joint checks.

Suspension Coverage:

Front Telelever and rear Paralever suspension system maintenance, fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, and linkage lubrication.

Braking System Coverage:

Comprehensive ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics, brake fluid replacement, caliper service, master cylinder maintenance, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System Coverage:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing (starter, alternator, battery), lighting system troubleshooting, and dashboard instrument cluster diagnostics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant change, lubrication points, and chain/driveshaft adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), and wiring schematic analysis for electrical problems.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system component repairs, and body panel repair/replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed specifications and diagnostic routines.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Type:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and clarity. May include high-resolution images and diagrams.

Print Quality Description:

Professional quality, ensuring clear text and sharp diagrams. If printed, will use durable paper stock.

Binding Type:

If printed: Comb binding, spiral binding, or perfect binding for lay-flat usability.

Paper Type:

If printed: Heavyweight, glossy or semi-gloss paper for durability and clear reproduction of diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder

Engine Displacement:

1171 cc (71.7 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

70.5 mm x 75 mm (2.78 in x 2.95 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 98 hp @ 7500 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)

Torque:

Approx. 90 lb-ft @ 5750 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Oil Type Specification:

BMW Motorrad recommends specific synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG/SH/SJ or higher and JASO MA specifications. Typically SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for exact spec.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US qt) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch

Drivetrain:

Shaft drive with BMW's Paralever single-sided swingarm

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (for final drive/gearbox). Consult manual for exact specification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2450 mm (96.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 960 mm (37.8 in) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) at windscreen

Dry Weight:

Approx. 295 kg (650 lbs) - varies by equipment

Wet Weight:

Approx. 322 kg (710 lbs) - varies by equipment and fluids

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Consult specific model year manual; typically around 500 kg (1100 lbs) for motorcycle and rider/passenger/luggage

Luggage Capacity:

Integrated hard saddlebags and top case with locking mechanisms. Total capacity substantial for touring.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Description:

As a motorcycle, official crash test ratings are not directly comparable to cars. However, BMW's engineering emphasizes rider safety through advanced braking and handling systems.

ABS Braking System:

BMW Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a key active safety feature, typically available as standard or option across model years.

Linked Braking:

Often features a linked braking system where applying the front brake lever also activates a portion of the rear brake, and vice-versa when using the rear pedal.

Lighting System:

Powerful headlight, auxiliary lighting (optional), and full tail/brake light system for visibility.

Chassis Design:

Robust chassis and frame construction designed for stability at speed and under load.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Often equipped with an integrated multi-speaker audio system, AM/FM radio, and cassette/CD player (depending on year/options). Cassette models may have CD changer compatibility.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control was a common and highly valued feature for long-distance touring.

ABS System:

Integral ABS system provides significant rider confidence and safety, especially in varied riding conditions.

Auxiliary Power:

Often features 12V power outlets for accessories and charging devices.

Heated Grips Seats:

Heated grips and often a two-level heated rider and passenger seat were available, enhancing comfort in cooler weather.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Check manual for precise interval.

Major Service Interval:

Major inspections and adjustments (valve clearance, etc.) usually recommended every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as specified in the manual.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Change Interval:

Typically every 2-4 years. Refer to manual for specific coolant type and interval.

Engine Oil Spec:

Synthetic motorcycle oil, API SG/SH/SJ or higher, JASO MA, viscosity SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid (verify with manual for specific requirements). ABS systems may have specific fluid needs.

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW recommends specific coolant. Verify with manual.

Final Drive Oil Spec:

Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 (verify with manual).

Known Issues Common:

Potential issues may include fuel pump reliability, occasional electrical gremlins (especially with auxiliary systems), ABS modulator issues, and wear on suspension bushings. Clutch slave cylinder seal leaks can occur.

Maintenance Considerations:

Regular thorough checks of the shaft drive boot for tears and proper lubrication of the splines are crucial to prevent premature wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Overview:

BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing innovative and high-quality motorcycles, dating back to the 1920s, with a focus on engineering excellence and rider comfort.

Model Evolution Overview:

The K1200LT evolved from the K1100LT and K1200LT (early version), with significant updates and the introduction of the more powerful 1171cc engine. It represented the pinnacle of BMW's touring capabilities at the time.

Production Years:

The K1200LT model was produced from approximately 1999 to 2009, before being succeeded by the K1300LT.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Description:

While specific awards may vary by publication and region, the K1200LT consistently received high marks for its touring comfort, performance, and build quality in motorcycle reviews and rider surveys during its production run.