Positioning:
The BMW K1200RS (K589) was positioned as a high-performance sport-touring motorcycle, offering a blend of power, comfort, and advanced technology.
Competitors:
Competed with other premium sport-touring motorcycles such as the Honda VFR, Yamaha FJR, and Kawasaki GTR series.
Distinctive Features:
Notable for its potent inline-four engine, advanced suspension systems (Telelever front, Paralever rear), ABS II braking, and aerodynamic fairing.
Engine:
Complete engine overhauls, including disassembly, inspection, assembly, and torque specifications for the 1171cc DOHC inline-four engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, fuel pump, injectors, throttle bodies, and fuel tank servicing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shaft and gear inspection, lubrication, and shift mechanism adjustments.
Electrical System:
Full electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, and ignition system.
Braking System:
ABS II system servicing, brake caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid bleeding, disc inspection, and master cylinder maintenance.
Suspension System:
Front Telelever and rear Paralever suspension system maintenance, shock absorber servicing, fork seal replacement, and spring adjustments.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan servicing, including coolant type and capacity specifications.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter inspection, muffler replacement, and exhaust pipe sealing.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, and general chassis component tightening.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat servicing, and general body panel maintenance.
Instrument Cluster:
Diagnosis and repair of the instrument cluster and associated warning lights.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, spark plug replacement, and air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and common problem identification for various systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostic Techniques:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools and interpreting error codes.
Advanced Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for electrical and mechanical systems, including component testing procedures and fault code interpretation.
Suspension Adjustment:
Instructions for adjusting front and rear suspension preload and damping where applicable.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel bearing inspection, and rim maintenance.
Safety System Maintenance:
Specific procedures for ABS system bleeding and component replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic user maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Rebuild Procedures:
Includes full disassembly and reassembly procedures for major components like the engine, transmission, and ABS modulator.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners and engine components.
Length:
Approx. 2230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 890 mm (35.0 in) (including mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1345 mm (52.9 in) (at handlebars)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1570 mm (61.8 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 244 kg (538 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 490 kg (1080 lbs)
Fuel Capacity:
24 Liters (6.3 US gal), including 4 Liters reserve
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles).
Engine Oil:
BMW Motorrad recommends SAE 20W-40 or SAE 15W-50 Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., BMW Motorrad ADVANTEC) meeting API SG/SH or JASO MA specification.
Coolant:
Mixture of 50% BMW Engine Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant) and 50% distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 90 Hypoid gear oil (API GL-5).
Common Problems:
Potential issues include ABS sensor faults, fuel pump relay failures, and wear on the driveshaft splines. Some owners report occasional clutch judder.
Heritage:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence, innovation, and durability.
K Series Evolution:
The K1200RS is part of BMW's K-series, which began with the K100. The K1200RS evolved from earlier K1200 models, incorporating significant upgrades in performance and technology.
Production Period:
The K1200RS was produced from 1997 to 2004, with the 2006 model year likely referring to later production runs or specific market availability, often a carry-over from previous years due to model cycle updates preceding the significant overhaul to the K1200GT/R platform.
