Positioning:
The BMW K1200RS of this era was positioned as a premium sport-touring motorcycle, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology.
Competitors:
Competed with other high-performance touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (ST1100), Yamaha (FJ1200), and Kawasaki (GTR1000).
Engine Layout:
Four-cylinder boxer engine, a distinctive BMW characteristic, offering a low center of gravity and smooth power delivery.
Chassis Design:
Paralever single-sided swingarm and Telelever front suspension (on later models, likely included in service procedures for this year) for refined handling.
Technology:
ABS II anti-lock braking system (optional but common), electronic fuel injection.
Manual Value:
This manual is invaluable for owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and ensuring proper upkeep of a sophisticated German motorcycle.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, and troubleshooting of the 4-cylinder boxer engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, pressure regulator, and tank maintenance.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil diagnosis, spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, and ECU interaction.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly, assembly, lubrication, and shift mechanism adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, final drive housing, and maintenance procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (including ABS II if equipped) overhaul, rear monoshock replacement, linkage maintenance, and adjustment procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS II (if equipped) component testing and replacement, fluid bleeding, pad and disc replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (lights, starter, alternator, battery), fuse box layout, and ECU diagnostics.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant flush and fill procedures, and leak detection.
Exhaust System:
Muffler and pipe replacement, gasket inspection, and catalytic converter (if applicable) information.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, fuel tank removal, and general body panel repairs.
Instrumentation:
Dashboard diagnostics, indicator light functions, and speedometer/tachometer troubleshooting.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, bolt torque specifications, and steering head bearing maintenance.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and general upkeep.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Rebuilding:
Comprehensive instructions for rebuilding engine components, transmissions, and suspension units.
Refurbishment:
Guidance on restoring and refurbishing worn or damaged parts.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and common problem identification for electrical and mechanical issues.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for diagnosing faults using visual inspection, test equipment, and diagnostic codes (if applicable).
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, flat-four boxer engine
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 63.7 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 100 hp @ 6,750 rpm (specifications may vary slightly)
Torque:
Approx. 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) @ 5,750 rpm (specifications may vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 2.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON + MON)/2
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD multi-function display for trip computer, fuel level, coolant temperature, and gear position.
ABS:
Optional ABS II system, a significant safety feature for its time, offering enhanced braking control.
Diagnostics Port:
Likely has a diagnostic port for connection to BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., MoDiTec).
Oil Change:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Check:
Recommended every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
BMW recommends SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil, meeting API SG/SH or higher. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Must be replaced every 2 years.
Coolant:
BMW Motorrad approved coolant, typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil. Check manual for specific BMW part number and capacity.
Common Problems:
Fuel pump relays can be a point of failure. ABS II sensors can sometimes be sensitive. Electrical connectors may require cleaning due to age and exposure.
Preventative Maintenance:
Regularly checking electrical connections, ensuring cooling system is free of corrosion, and timely replacement of wear items are crucial.
Bmw Motorcycles:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, renowned for engineering excellence, innovation, and durability.
K Series:
The K-series, introduced in the early 1980s, represented BMW's move towards more modern, inline-four cylinder (and in this case, boxer-four) engine configurations for increased performance.
K1200Rs Development:
The K1200RS was an evolution of earlier K-series models, designed for high-speed touring with a focus on rider comfort and aerodynamic protection.
Production Years:
The K1200RS model was produced from 1997 to 2004.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
