Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Discerning riders seeking long-distance comfort, advanced technology, and premium build quality.
Key Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Yamaha Royal Star Venture.
Engine Configuration:
Inline four-cylinder, longitudinally mounted engine.
Powertrain Type:
Shaft drive.
Comfort Features:
Electric windshield, heated grips and seat, integrated audio system, extensive luggage capacity.
Value Proposition:
Enables significant cost savings on dealership service and repairs through detailed DIY instructions.
Usability:
Designed for both novice and experienced mechanics, providing a structured approach to maintenance and repair.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all internal components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, etc.).
Engine Management:
Detailed coverage of the Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system, ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics, and troubleshooting procedures.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for the gearbox, clutch (including hydraulic actuation), and final drive (shaft drive) system.
Chassis And Frame:
Inspection, maintenance, and repair of the aluminum frame, suspension components (front forks, rear shock absorber), and steering system.
Braking System:
Comprehensive details on the integral ABS braking system, including brake fluid replacement, caliper servicing, rotor inspection, and ABS component troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lighting, charging system, starter, instrumentation, comfort features, and audio systems.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Procedures for removal, installation, and repair of body panels, fairings, luggage systems (top case, panniers), and associated trim.
Fuel System:
Service and maintenance of the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, and injectors.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of the liquid cooling system, including radiator, coolant pump, hoses, and thermostat.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, drive shaft lubrication, brake fluid flush, coolant service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues across all major systems.
Engine Rebuilding:
Step-by-step instructions for complete engine teardown, inspection of wear limits, component replacement, and reassembly.
Suspension Servicing:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil changes, rear shock absorber servicing and adjustment.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of electrical circuits, fault finding for sensor issues, starter system diagnosis, and battery system checks.
Clutch Adjustment And Service:
Hydraulic clutch system bleeding, lever adjustment, and clutch plate inspection (if applicable to the model year).
Wheel Bearing Replacement:
Service procedures for front and rear wheel bearings.
Bodywork And Trim Removal:
Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling fairings, panels, and luggage components.
ABS System Maintenance:
Bleeding ABS system, component diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Covers on-board diagnostics (OBD) where applicable, fault code interpretation, and sensor data analysis.
Torque Specifications:
Includes precise torque values for all critical fasteners, crucial for safe and proper assembly.
Special Tools:
Identifies required special tools and BMW-specific workshop equipment for certain procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Typically around 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-24,000 miles), including valve clearance checks and spark plug replacement.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW recommends SAE 5W-40 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG/SH or JASO MA standards (e.g., BMW ADVANTEC Ultimate 5W-40).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Engine Coolant (ethylene glycol-based) – typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW part number 83 19 2 167 412.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion in electrical connectors can lead to intermittent faults (e.g., starter relay, rear light).
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models may experience occasional fuel pump issues.
ABS Sensor Issues:
ABS sensor rings or wiring can be susceptible to damage or contamination, affecting ABS operation.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Potential for leaks from the clutch slave cylinder requiring replacement or seal kit.
Manufacturer History:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the early 20th century, renowned for engineering excellence and innovation.
K Series Development:
The K1200LT is an evolution of BMW's K-series, known for its innovative longitudinal inline-four engines and shaft drive, building upon the legacy of models like the K100 and K1100LT.
K1200Lt Positioning:
The LT ('Luxus Tourer') designation signifies its position as BMW's flagship touring motorcycle, emphasizing comfort, amenities, and long-distance capability.
Production Years:
1999-2009 (with this specific manual covering 1999-2003 initial production).