Segment:
High-performance sport-touring motorcycle
Competitors:
Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1400, Honda VFR1200F
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline four-cylinder boxer
Power Delivery:
Strong mid-range torque and impressive top-end power.
Suspension:
BMW Duolever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension for superior handling and stability.
Braking System:
Integral ABS with optional linked braking system for enhanced safety.
Sporty Ergonomics:
Slightly aggressive riding position tailored for spirited riding.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repairs, saving time and money while ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Engine:
Complete disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, drive shaft, final drive, lubrication.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, swingarm, rear suspension, front suspension (Duolever), steering head.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire pressure, wheel removal/installation, balancing.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Integral ABS), brake pad replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, master cylinder service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle bodies, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Cooling System:
Coolant types, capacity, bleed procedures, radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal/installation, seat, fuel tank cover, body panels.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW specific tools required for repairs.
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, inspections, lubrication points, fluid changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and their solutions, fault code interpretation.
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuilds, bottom-end assembly, valve adjustments, timing chain service.
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox disassembly and reassembly, clutch replacement, final drive overhaul.
Brake System Service:
Bleeding, fluid replacement, pad and rotor replacement, ABS module diagnostics.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness testing, component testing, sensor troubleshooting, fault code retrieval and clearing.
Suspension And Steering:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, steering bearing adjustment.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel alignment, component replacement, fastener torque specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls, including in-depth electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled four-stroke inline four-cylinder boxer engine
Displacement:
1171 cc (71.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 53.6 mm (3.31 in x 2.11 in)
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling
Horsepower:
120 hp (89 kW) @ 8,250 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
80 lb-ft (109 Nm) @ 6,750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with two throttle bodies per cylinder
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG/SH standards (refer to manual for exact BMW specifications)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change
Type:
6-speed, constant mesh sequential gearbox
Clutch:
Wet multi-plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific gear ratios.
Transmission Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific transmission oil specifications (typically API GL-4 or GL-5).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 liters (1.6 US qt) for gearbox, consult manual for final drive oil capacity.
Length:
Approx. 2,228 mm (87.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 900 mm (35.4 in) (incl. mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,248 mm (49.1 in) (seat height)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,523 mm (59.96 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 247 kg (545 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle identification plate and manual.
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 24 liters (6.3 US gal)
Front Tire Size:
120/70 ZR 17
Rear Tire Size:
180/55 ZR 17
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum alloy
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Integral BMW Hubs)
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle - manufacturer-specific safety features apply)
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS (optional, often standard on 'SPORT' models) - fully integrated, can be disengaged for rear wheel.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available as an option.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED rear tail light, turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control during extended riding.
Frame Construction:
Aluminum composite main frame for rigidity and light weight.
Instrumentation:
Digital/analog combination instrument cluster with onboard computer providing fuel consumption, range, temperature, etc. Gear indicator.
Optional Features:
Heated grips, cruise control (often standard on R SPORT models), on-board computer.
ABS System:
Integral ABS (as described in safety section), offering sophisticated braking control.
Traction Control System:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available as an option for enhanced grip in varying conditions.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) port for electronic fault diagnosis, requiring specific BMW diagnostic tools or compatible aftermarket readers.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 20,000 km (12,400 miles), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 40,000 km (24,800 miles).
Valve Check:
Inspect every 40,000 km (24,800 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Coolant Change:
Every 3 years.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for exact BMW recommended oil (e.g., Castrol Power RS 4T 10W-50 or equivalent). Ensure it meets the required API and JASO specifications.
Coolant:
BMW coolant (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate RTU, blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil:
Refer to manual for specific BMW final drive gear oil specification.
Common Problems:
Some owners report occasional issues with the fuel pump, starter motor solenoid, and sometimes the ABS system requiring specific diagnostic procedures. Refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check tire pressures, chain tension (if applicable, though shaft drive here), and fluid levels. Ensure electrical connections are clean and secure.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, innovation, and building durable, high-performance motorcycles.
K Series Introduction:
The K-series debuted in the early 1980s with the K100, featuring a transverse inline-four engine. The K1200 R SPORT is a evolution of this platform, emphasizing sporty performance and rider comfort.
K43 Chassis:
The K43 chassis, utilized by the K1200 R and R SPORT, represented a significant update with its boxer engine configuration and advanced suspension systems.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Production Period:
2005-2008 (K1200 R), 2006-2007 (K1200 R SPORT)