Market Position:
The BMW K1200LT was BMW Motorrad's flagship luxury touring motorcycle, designed for comfortable long-distance riding with premium features and exceptional build quality.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other high-end touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (Gold Wing), Harley-Davidson (Electra Glide), and Kawasaki (Voyager).
Key Features Of Bike:
Powerful inline-four engine, integrated ABS, comfortable ergonomics, extensive fairing for wind protection, ample storage (top case, saddlebags), adjustable windscreen, premium audio system, and advanced onboard electronics.
Value For Buyers:
This manual is an indispensable resource for owners and mechanics looking to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot their K1200LT ABS, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of this sophisticated touring machine.
Target Audience:
Owners of the BMW K1200LT ABS, independent motorcycle repair shops, and certified BMW technicians.
Covered Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Suspension, Brakes (including ABS), Chassis, Bodywork, Controls, Instruments, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Coverage:
Detailed breakdown of the K1200LT's four-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve engine, including disassembly, assembly, torque specifications, timing, lubrication, cooling, and performance tuning.
Transmission Drivetrain Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of the clutch, gearbox, final drive, shaft drive system, including maintenance, repair, and adjustment procedures.
Electrical System Coverage:
In-depth analysis of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, lighting, starter motor, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, and ABS diagnostics.
Brake System Coverage:
Detailed procedures for brake system maintenance and repair, including hydraulic system bleeding, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, and specific ABS system diagnostics and calibration.
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Instructions for servicing the front and rear suspension, including fork seals, shock absorbers, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, and alignment checks.
Fuel System Coverage:
Details on fuel injection system maintenance, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, and fuel tank servicing.
Chassis Frame Coverage:
Information on the aluminum frame, subframe, and associated chassis components, including inspection and repair considerations.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes, lubrication points, and battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation, and diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Component Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for the disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major engine, transmission, and chassis components.
Electrical Component Testing:
Detailed procedures for testing and diagnosing electrical components, sensors, actuators, and wiring harnesses using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
Bodywork Fairing Repair:
Procedures for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling plastic fairings, aerodynamic components, and trim.
Wheel Tire Service:
Instructions for tire mounting and balancing, wheel bearing replacement, and wheel rim inspection.
Seat Comfort Adjustment:
Information on adjustable seat height (where applicable) and comfort features.
Luggage System Maintenance:
Details on maintaining and servicing the integrated saddlebags and top case, including lock mechanisms and latches.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and electrical system diagnostics and repairs, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
79 mm x 59 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 100 hp @ 6750 rpm (varies slightly by market/year)
Torque:
Approx. 116 Nm (85.5 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (varies slightly by market/year)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic MA 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline, 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Capacity:
24 liters (6.3 US gallons)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with fan assist.
Infotainment System:
Often equipped with an integrated AM/FM stereo with CD player and rider/passenger intercom system.
ABS System:
BMW Integral ABS provides combined braking and anti-lock protection for enhanced safety.
Connectivity Features:
Accessory ports for GPS and other electronic devices.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital display for fuel level, engine temperature, gear indicator, clock, and tripmeters. Warning lights for various systems including ABS.
Throttle Control:
Cable-operated throttle system with detailed adjustment procedures.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system detailed in the manual (if equipped).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) for valve clearance checks and spark plug replacement.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad Advanced Synthetic SAE 5W-40 (or equivalent API SG/JASO MA)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Motorrad Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, high-performance synthetic brake fluid
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (API GL-5)
Final Drive Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (API GL-5)
Known Issues:
Potential for weak clutch slave cylinder seals, starter motor issues, intermittent ABS sensor problems, and wear on the main stand pivot point. Electronically controlled suspension (if equipped on specific models) can also require attention.
Engine Mount Torque:
Detailed torque specifications for all engine mounting bolts, cylinder head bolts, and internal engine components are provided.
Wheel Torque:
Correct torque values for wheel lug nuts and axle bolts are specified.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing high-quality, innovative motorcycles, known for their engineering prowess and rider-focused design, particularly in the touring segment.
K Series Evolution:
The K1200LT is part of BMW's K-series, which began with the revolutionary K100 in the early 1980s. The LT (Luxus Tourer) designation signifies the pinnacle of BMW's luxury touring offerings, building on the K1100LT and evolving into the K1200LT with significant upgrades in power, comfort, and features.
Production Location:
Berlin, Germany
Model Variants:
The 'ABS' designation indicates this manual specifically covers models equipped with BMW's integral anti-lock braking system, a key safety and performance feature.
