Positioning:
The BMW K1200RS (2005) was positioned as a high-performance sport touring motorcycle, offering a blend of power, comfort, and advanced technology for discerning riders.
Competitors:
Competed against other large-displacement sport touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (ST1300), Kawasaki (GTR1400), Yamaha (FJR1300), and Triumph (Trophy).
Features:
Characterized by its powerful inline-four engine, shaft drive, advanced Telelever front suspension, and integrated fairing for aerodynamic comfort.
Value:
Essential for owners and technicians seeking to perform accurate maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the K1200RS.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, ignition timing.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox internals, shift mechanism, final drive, shaft drive maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instruments, sensors, ECU, diagnostics (OBD-II).
Braking System:
Brake fluid, brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, servo-assisted braking.
Suspension System:
Front forks (incl. Telelever), rear shock absorber (incl. Paralever), springs, damping adjustments, wheel bearings.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm.
Bodywork:
Fairings, body panels, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, windshield.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code identification and interpretation.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable to drivetrain), brake pad replacement, fluid level checks.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system bleeding and repair, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, electrical system fault finding.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine performance data, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, component tolerances.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions with diagrams for component removal and installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and ABS troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke inline four-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
79 mm x 59 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
110 kW (148 hp) @ 9,500 rpm
Torque:
121 Nm (89 lb-ft) @ 6,750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic MA 2.4
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON/91 AKI)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or SAE 10W-40 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (meeting BMW specifications)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (BMW antifreeze concentrate recommended)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles)
ABS:
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with servo-assisted braking.
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) was an optional feature for some K1200 models, manual would cover its diagnosis if equipped.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated turn signals, LED tail light.
Chassis Design:
Robust frame construction, integrated fairing for rider protection.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive analog and digital display including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, clock, gear indicator, and warning lights. Often featured heated grips and an electric windshield.
ABS:
Integral ABS system, where applying either brake lever actuates both front and rear brakes, with rider override possible. Manual details system components and diagnostics.
Diagnostics Port:
Features an OBD-II style diagnostic port for ECU data retrieval and system analysis.
Heated Grips:
Adjustable heated grips for rider comfort.
Windshield:
Electrically adjustable windshield for optimal wind deflection and rider comfort.
Oil Filter Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Drive Shaft Oil Change:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 liters (4.2 US qt) with filter change.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.25 liters (0.26 US qt)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 liters (2.6 US qt)
Common Problems:
Potential for ABS modulator issues, early generation electronic glitches, wear on suspension pivot points, clutch slave cylinder leaks. (Manual provides diagnostic steps for these).
Required Tools:
Includes procedures for using BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) for electronic systems and ABS troubleshooting.
Heritage:
BMW Motorrad has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, engineering excellence, and durability since the early 20th century.
K Series Evolution:
The K1200RS belongs to the K-series, which began with the K100 in the 1980s. The K1200RS evolved from earlier K1200 models, incorporating advancements in engine technology, suspension, and electronics, culminating in the later K1200GT and K1300 series.
Production Period:
The K1200RS model was produced from 1997 to 2004, with the 2005 model year representing the final iteration before being superseded by the K1200GT.
Manufacturing:
Manufactured in Berlin, Germany.