🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

K1200LT

Year:

1999

Generation Code:

K589

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Luxury Touring Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Touring riders seeking comfort, performance, and advanced features for long-distance travel.

Key Competitors 1999:

Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Yamaha Royal Star Venture, Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager.

Aerodynamics:

Extensive fairings and bodywork for rider protection and comfort.

Ergonomics:

Comfortable seating for rider and passenger, adjustable handlebars and controls.

Integrated Luggage:

Standard saddlebags and a large top case for extensive storage capacity.

Advanced Suspension:

Electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) on some models, offering adaptive damping.

ABS Braking:

Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair, including fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, and emissions control. Covers engine mechanical components, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, valves, timing system, and more.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Comprehensive coverage of the transmission, clutch, final drive (including driveshaft and differential), and related components. Includes inspection, adjustment, repair, and replacement procedures.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension systems, including fork seals, damping adjustments, shock absorbers, linkages, and wheel bearings. Covers steering system components and procedures.

Braking System:

Complete guide to the ABS braking system, including hydraulic components, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, and brake fluid. Includes bleeding procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

Electrical System:

Extensive coverage of the motorcycle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, and accessory power. Includes diagnosis of electrical faults.

Bodywork And Fairings:

Instructions for the removal, installation, and repair of body panels, fairings, seating, luggage systems (top case, saddlebags), and interior trim components.

Routine Maintenance:

Step-by-step guides for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/driveshaft lubrication, and general inspections.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting procedures for common mechanical and electrical issues.

Component Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for the complete overhaul and rebuilding of major engine, transmission, and suspension components.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Guidance on using diagnostic tools and techniques to identify and resolve faults within the engine management, ABS, and other electronic systems.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and detailed component repairs. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital format suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Four-stroke, horizontally opposed four-cylinder (Boxer)

Displacement:

1171 cc (71.6 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

70.5 mm x 75 mm (2.78 in x 2.95 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower Rating:

Approx. 100 hp (74 kW) @ 6,750 rpm (subject to regional variations)

Torque Rating:

Approx. 115 Nm (85 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm (subject to regional variations)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with single throttle body

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2

Fuel Tank Capacity:

25 liters (6.6 US gal)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual

Optional Transmission:

None offered for this model year.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate clutch

Final Drive:

Shaft drive to rear wheel

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2,375 mm (93.5 in)

Width Handlebar:

Approx. 930 mm (36.6 in)

Height Seat:

Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in) (standard seat height)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 285 kg (628 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 470 kg (1036 lbs)

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 185 kg (408 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS System:

BMW Integral ABS

Front Brakes:

Dual 320 mm discs with four-piston calipers

Rear Brakes:

Single 285 mm disc with two-piston caliper

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light

Hazard Lights:

Standard hazard warning light function

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional integrated audio system (often with CD player or cassette on this era model), radio, and speakers.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control for highway comfort.

ABS System:

Integral ABS, a sophisticated system for its time, integrating braking forces.

Diagnostic Interface:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) capabilities allowing for advanced troubleshooting with appropriate tools (covered in manual).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 motorcycle specific synthetic oil (BMW recommends BMW Motorrad High Performance SAE 20W-50)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid

Transmission Oil Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 synthetic gear oil

Final Drive Oil Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 synthetic gear oil

Rear Shock ABSorber:

Potential for wear and leaking over time, particularly on high-mileage units. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

Fuel Pump Relay:

Some early models may experience issues with the fuel pump relay. Manual provides diagnostic steps.

ABS Unit Failure:

While generally robust, ABS hydraulic units can occasionally develop faults. The manual details diagnostic procedures for the ABS system.

Clutch Actuator:

Hydraulic clutch actuator seals can degrade, leading to a stiff clutch lever or leaks. Manual covers its inspection and service.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

BMW Motorrad is renowned for its engineering excellence, rider-focused design, and innovative technology in premium motorcycles.

K Series Introduction:

The K series, introduced in the early 1980s, was BMW's first foray into inline-four cylinder motorcycles, known for their smooth power delivery and advanced engineering.

K1200Lt Introduction:

The K1200LT was introduced in 1997 as the flagship touring model, building upon the K1100LT and offering increased displacement, comfort, and features.

Production Period K1200Lt:

1997 - 2009 (with various engine updates, the 1999 model being a key early iteration before the larger 1200cc engine update in 2001).

Manufacturing Location:

Berlin, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Of The Year:

While specific awards for the 1999 model are not widely publicized, the K1200LT consistently received praise for its touring prowess and comfort from motorcycle publications globally.

Consumer Satisfaction:

High consumer satisfaction ratings for comfort, reliability, and touring capability, especially when properly maintained. The manual is crucial for this.