Positioning:
The BMW K1200RS (K589) was positioned as a high-performance sport-touring motorcycle, blending comfort for long-distance riding with potent engine performance and advanced technology for its era.
Competitors:
Competed against other premium sport-touring machines from manufacturers like Honda (ST1100), Kawasaki (GTR1000), and Yamaha (diversified models).
Features:
Characterized by its transverse four-cylinder engine, shaft drive, advanced aerodynamics, and robust build quality typical of BMW motorcycles.
Value:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform all maintenance and repair tasks accurately, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the K1200RS, saving on labor costs.
Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Pages:
Comprehensive (Exact count not provided, but described as 'All Service Repair Manual')
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the K1200RS engine.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox maintenance, driveshaft inspection, final drive servicing.
Braking System:
ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid replacement, caliper servicing, disc inspection.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork maintenance, rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement, steering head bearing service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, ignition system, lighting, starter, alternator, diagnostic codes.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, injector cleaning, fuel pump testing, fuel filter replacement.
Cooling System:
Coolant specifications, radiator service, thermostat replacement, fan operation.
Exhaust System:
Muffler and pipe inspection, gasket replacement.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat adjustment, panel fitting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain/driveshaft lubrication, brake pad inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic steps for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of sensors, actuators, and control units; use of diagnostic tools.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic rider maintenance to advanced engine and electrical system overhauls.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations, suitable for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline four-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
71 mm x 75.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 100 hp (74 kW) @ 7500 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approx. 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) @ 6000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic MA 2.2 electronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (91 AKI)
Oil Type:
API SG/SH or JASO MA, SAE 20W-50 recommended (refer to manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual for exact specification)
Spark Plugs:
NGK CR9EK or equivalent
Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 905 mm (35.6 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 in) at handlebars
Dry Weight:
Approx. 264 kg (582 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 490 kg (1080 lbs)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Cast wheels with specific mounting)
Crash Safety:
Motorcycles are not rated by traditional automotive crash test agencies; focus is on rider protection via design and available safety systems.
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.
Braking System:
Dual 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 280 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, LED taillight.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually (refer to manual for precise interval and conditions)
Major Service Interval:
Major service typically at 20,000 km or 40,000 km, including valve clearance checks (refer to manual for precise intervals)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification and bleeding procedures)
Coolant:
BMW Advanced Antifreeze (or equivalent) - typically a glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Ratio usually 50/50 with distilled water. (refer to manual)
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (5.5 US gal)
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pump, clutch slave cylinder, regulator/rectifier, swingarm bearings, steering head bearings.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older BMWs can sometimes experience minor electrical issues due to aged wiring or connectors, which this manual would help diagnose.
Heritage:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence, innovation, and durability since the early 20th century.
Predecessors:
The K1200RS evolved from BMW's pioneering K-series 'flying brick' inline-four motorcycles, which debuted in the early 1980s.
Successor:
The K1200RS platform was later succeeded by more advanced K1200GT and K1200LT models, and eventually the K1300 series, incorporating significant technological updates.
Production Years:
1997-2000 (for the K589 model)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad Plant)
Awards:
While specific awards for the 1997 model year are not readily cited, the K1200RS was generally praised by motorcycle journalists for its performance, comfort, and engineering prowess in the sport-touring segment.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive for its blend of sport and touring capabilities, though some noted the weight and complexity compared to Japanese rivals.
