Market Position:
The BMW K 1200 LT was positioned as a premium, full-dress touring motorcycle, designed for long-distance comfort and refinement. It competed with other flagship touring models from manufacturers like Honda (Gold Wing) and Harley-Davidson (Electra Glide).
Competitive Analysis:
The K 1200 LT distinguished itself with its sophisticated engineering, powerful inline-four engine, and advanced features for its era, including electric windscreen adjustment and optional heated seats. It offered a more performance-oriented touring experience compared to some rivals.
Key Features:
Exceptional rider and passenger comfort, integrated luggage system, powerful and smooth engine, advanced suspension technology, comprehensive fairing for weather protection.
Value Proposition:
This comprehensive workshop manual empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge required for accurate maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of the BMW K 1200 LT, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. The instant digital download format offers immediate access without shipping delays or costs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine management (DME)
Transmission Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, gearbox (5-speed), final drive (shaft drive), torque specifications for fasteners
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (Duolever), rear suspension (Paralever), wheel bearings, steering system, fork seals
Braking System:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake fluid replacement, caliper overhaul
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ECU (Electronic Control Unit) functions, wiring diagrams
Bodywork Comfort Systems:
Fairing removal and installation, body panel repair, seats, luggage system, windscreen adjustment, heated grips, central locking (if equipped)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, drive shaft lubrication, valve clearance adjustment
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common faults, error code interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, gearbox disassembly and assembly, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, electrical component testing and replacement
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced engine and electrical system diagnostics and repair. Suitable for experienced DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type:
Water-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
70.5 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower Peak:
98 hp @ 7500 rpm (approx.)
Torque Peak:
116 Nm (85.6 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON / 91 AKI)
Ignition Type:
Digital ignition (CDI)
Oil Type Specification:
SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 motorcycle specific oil (API SG or higher)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.5 liters
Coolant Type Specification:
BMW Coolant (ethylene glycol-based, 50% mixture with distilled water)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Gear Ratios:
Manual reference to specific gear ratios within the manual
Gearbox Oil Type Specification:
SAE 75W/90 GL-5 (or specified BMW lubricant)
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.4 liters
Final Drive Oil Type Specification:
SAE 80W/90 GL-5 (or specified BMW lubricant)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.2 liters
Length:
2370 mm (approx.)
Width:
950 mm (approx. at handlebars)
Height:
1420 mm (approx. at handlebars, without antenna)
Wheelbase:
1584 mm (approx.)
Dry Weight:
337 kg (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
530 kg (approx.)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters
Luggage Capacity:
Integrated top case and side panniers with significant storage volume
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are not standardized in the same way as cars)
Active Safety Features:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with linked braking, strong braking performance, stable chassis dynamics
Passive Safety Features:
Comprehensive fairing for rider protection, integrated passenger grab handles, robust construction
Lighting System:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight, integrated turn signals
Infotainment System:
Optional radio/cassette player or CD player with integrated speakers and handlebar controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Integral ABS, electric windscreen adjustment, optional heated grips and seats.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration)
Lighting Technology:
Halogen headlight for main beam illumination, clear lens turn indicators.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first
Air Filter Inspection Cleaning:
Every 20,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km
Valve Clearance Check Adjustment:
Every 20,000 km
Brake Fluid Flush Replacement:
Every 2 years
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 20W-40 Motorcycle Synthetic/Mineral (API SG or higher)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 for ABS models, consult manual for specifics)
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 75W/90 GL-5 gear oil
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W/90 GL-5 gear oil
Common Issues:
Possible electrical connector corrosion, ABS modulator issues, starter motor solenoids, final drive spline wear (preventative maintenance advised), occasional clutch slave cylinder leaks. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Brand Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for its engineering prowess, rider-focused design, and emphasis on quality and durability, particularly in touring and sport-touring segments.
Model Evolution To Lt:
The K 1200 LT evolved from the K 1100 LT, representing BMW's commitment to luxury touring. It was further developed into the K 1200 LT successor with a larger engine and updated technology.
Production Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant Spandau)
Production Period:
1999-2009 (First generation K589 1999-2004, second generation K12LT 2004-2009)
