Positioning:
The BMW K1200 series represented BMW's foray into the larger displacement sport-touring and luxury touring segments. The RS focused on performance touring, while the LT was the pinnacle of BMW's luxury touring offerings.
Competitors:
Competed against other premium touring motorcycles such as Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha FJR1300, and Harley-Davidson models.
Features:
Characterized by its distinctive inline-four engine, shaft drive, advanced suspension systems (Telelever front, Paralever rear), and often extensive touring amenities, especially on the LT model (e.g., reverse gear, integrated audio, electric windshield).
Years Covered:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Type:
Workshop Service Manual (WSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
Likely digital (PDF) based on common sales, but could also be printed. Assuming digital for detailed attributes.
Engine:
Detailed breakdown of the K1200 engine, including cylinder head, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, oil system, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, and fuel tank.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox (sequential), final drive (shaft drive), and associated components.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, lighting, starter motor, ECU (engine control unit), ABS, and instrument cluster.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Telelever suspension, rear Paralever suspension, forks, shock absorbers, linkages, frame, and swingarm.
Braking System:
Hydraulic brake system, brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake discs, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairings, body panels, seats, luggage systems (for LT), handlebars, and trim pieces.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel types, bearings, tire specifications, and mounting.
Maintenance:
Regular service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, chain/shaft drive lubrication, brake system maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, and problem-solving techniques.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, gearbox overhauls, and suspension component refurbishment.
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustments, throttle cable adjustments, clutch adjustments, and suspension setup.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts.
File Format:
PDF (likely, with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams)
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans or original manufacturer quality, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (if digital). If printed, typically a robust comb or spiral binding for lay-flat use in a workshop.
Paper Type:
N/A (if digital). If printed, typically on durable, grease-resistant paper.
Type:
Inline-four cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement:
1171cc (for K1200RS/GT), 1171cc (for K1200LT)
Bore X Stroke:
70.5 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-110 hp (depending on model and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 110-115 Nm (depending on model and tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane
Length:
Varies by model (e.g., K1200LT approx. 2500 mm)
Width:
Varies by model (e.g., K1200LT approx. 980 mm with mirrors)
Height:
Varies by model (e.g., K1200LT approx. 1550 mm with windshield)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 280-300 kg (depending on model)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 495 kg (K1200LT)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 21 liters (20 liters usable)
Audio System:
K1200LT models often featured integrated radio/cassette or CD players with speakers, controlled via handlebar switches. Manual will detail operation and potential maintenance.
ABS:
Integral ABS system with electronic diagnostics. Manual covers its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics system accessible via a diagnostic connector. Manual provides procedures for accessing and interpreting diagnostic codes.
Electric Windshield:
K1200LT features an electronically adjustable windshield. Manual details its operation and repair.
Reverse Gear:
K1200LT equipped with an electric reverse gear. Manual covers its function and maintenance.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km or annually. Manual will specify exact intervals and conditions.
Valve Clearance:
Typically at 20,000 km or 40,000 km intervals, depending on model and service history. Manual provides precise checks.
Engine Oil:
BMW recommends specific viscosity grades (e.g., SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50) and API service classifications (e.g., SG or higher). Manual will detail specific BMW approved oils.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Manual will specify type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, depending on ABS system. Manual will specify exact requirement and replacement interval.
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Final Drive Oil:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-140 or 80W-90 gear oil. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Common Problems:
While generally robust, common issues can include fuel pump wear, regulator/rectifier failure, ABS sensor issues, and occasional electrical gremlins. The manual is invaluable for diagnosing and rectifying these.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing reliable and technologically advanced motorcycles, known for their engineering prowess and durability.
Evolution:
The K1200 series evolved from earlier K-series models. The RS was introduced in the mid-90s as a sporty tourer, and the LT was developed as a full-dress luxury tourer, becoming one of BMW's flagship models.
Production Years:
K1200RS: 1997-2004; K1200LT: 1999-2009 (with significant updates). This manual covers the 1997-2004 period for applicable models.
