Category:
Luxury Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance riders, touring enthusiasts, riders prioritizing comfort and features
Key Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Electra Glide, Kawasaki Vulcan Voyager, Yamaha Royal Star Tour Deluxe
Premium Touring:
Emphasis on rider and passenger comfort, extensive fairing for wind protection, integrated luggage, premium audio system, and features like reverse gear and heated grips.
Engine Layout:
Inline four-cylinder, longitudinally mounted, boxer-like configuration for BMW's K-series.
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanics, tuning, diagnostics), Fuel System (injection, pumps, lines), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (clutch, gearbox, final drive)
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (front and rear, including paralever and Hossack/Duolever), Steering, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (ABS, hydraulic systems, components)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECU, Starter Motor, Fuses, Relays, Accessory Power
Bodywork:
Fairings, Body Panels, Seat, Luggage Systems (top case, panniers), Windscreen, Ergonomics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, valve clearance checks, lubrication points
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), use of diagnostic tools (if applicable)
Adjustments:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever free play, suspension preload, idle speed control
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (for K589 models), 1200 cc (for K71 models)
Bore X Stroke:
77.6 mm x 64.0 mm (for 1171 cc), 79.0 mm x 75.1 mm (for 1200 cc)
Compression Ratio:
10.1:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 95-100 hp (at 7500 rpm) depending on model year and tune
Torque:
Approx. 102-107 Nm (at 5500-6000 rpm) depending on model year
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic (early), Siemens VDO (later)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle-specific engine oil (refer to manual for precise API classification)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
BMW approved coolant (ethylene glycol based), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Spark Plugs:
e.g., NGK CR9EK, Champion RA6HC (check specific model year and manual for exact part numbers)
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Reverse Gear:
Electrically operated reverse gear (standard feature on LT models)
Drive Type:
Shaft drive to the rear wheel
Final Drive Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil, SAE 80W-90 (API GL-5)
Final Drive Oil Capacity:
Approx. 200-250 ml (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Length:
Approx. 2330 mm (varies slightly by year)
Width:
Approx. 960 mm (including mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (seat height approx. 800 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 303 kg (varies by model year and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 505 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (including approx. 3.5 liter reserve)
Luggage Capacity:
Integrated hard-shell panniers and a large top case with integrated passenger backrest.
Braking System:
Integral ABS II (combined braking system, front lever actuates front and rear brakes, rear pedal actuates rear brake only on some models). Dual discs front, single disc rear.
ABS:
Standard on most models (Integral ABS II)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on these models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, taillight/brake light assembly, auxiliary lighting often integrated into fairing.
Windscreen:
Large, adjustable electric windscreen for optimal wind protection.
Audio System:
Integrated radio/cassette or CD player with speakers, often with rider/passenger controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control for reduced rider fatigue on long journeys.
Reverse Gear:
Electrically powered reverse gear for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Diagnostic Port:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) port for electronic fault code reading and analysis.
Heated Components:
Heated grips and often heated seats for rider and passenger.
Windscreen Control:
Electrically operated windscreen adjustment.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval based on usage)
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km or 40,000 km (for valve checks, fluid flushes, etc. - refer to manual)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Coolant:
BMW approved coolant (ethylene glycol based), 50% distilled water mix
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG/SH or higher)
Final Drive Oil:
SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (API GL-5)
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections in connectors, especially around the ECU and ABS module. Requires careful inspection and cleaning.
Fuel Pump:
Can be a wear item; some models may experience reduced pressure or failure.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Potential for leaks over time, requiring seal replacement.
ABS System:
Occasional issues with ABS modulator or wheel speed sensors, though generally robust.
Shock ABSorber Seals:
Rear shock absorber seals can degrade with age and mileage, leading to leaks.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Motorsport Focus:
BMW has a long history in motorcycle racing and innovation.
Major Updates:
The K1200LT evolved from the K1100LT, gaining a larger displacement engine and significant refinements in comfort, electronics, and styling. The introduction of the K71 chassis brought further updates, including different suspension and engine tuning.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (BMW Motorrad plant)
Production Period:
1998-2009
