Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking performance, comfort, and long-distance capability
Key Competitors:
Honda VFR, Kawasaki GTR series, Yamaha FJR1300
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on rider comfort, aerodynamic efficiency, and powerful, smooth engine delivery
Innovations:
BMW's signature telelever front suspension and paralever rear suspension for refined handling
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Component Coverage:
Engine, gearbox, chassis, electrical system, bodywork, suspension, brakes, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system
Diagnostic Coverage:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures
Estimated Page Count:
800+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Purpose:
DIY repairs, professional workshop use, maintenance planning
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Engine Management:
EFI, ignition timing, idle control, sensor diagnostics (e.g., Lambda, crank position, throttle position)
Powertrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, final drive (shaft drive) maintenance
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting circuits, starter system, charging system, ABS II, instrument cluster troubleshooting, ECU functions
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork service (e.g., oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement, steering head bearing maintenance
Braking System:
Brake fluid replacement, caliper service, ABS system bleeding procedures, disc and pad inspection/replacement
Fuel And Exhaust:
Fuel pump operation, injector cleaning, exhaust system inspection and replacement
Cooling System:
Coolant type and capacity, radiator service, fan operation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, drive shaft lubrication
Major Repairs:
Engine top-end rebuild, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, ABS unit repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon problems
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, wiring continuity checks, sensor signal analysis
Special Tool Usage:
Identification and application of BMW-specific tools for complex procedures
Depth:
Detailed, from basic fluid checks to complete engine disassembly and reassembly
Torque Specifications:
Included for all critical fasteners and components
Clearances And Tolerances:
Provided for engine internals, bearings, and other critical wear parts
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
79 mm x 59 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
110 hp (approx. at 8,200 rpm)
Torque:
117 Nm (approx. at 6,750 rpm)
Redline:
9,000 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.4)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON recommended)
Fuel Capacity:
24 Liters (6.3 US gallons)
ABS:
BMW Integral ABS II (optional/standard depending on market)
Braking System:
Dual front discs (320mm), single rear disc (265mm)
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillights
Chassis Design:
Stressed-member engine and chassis for rigidity and weight distribution
Windscreen:
Adjustable windscreen for rider protection
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, digital multi-function display (odo, trip, clock, fuel, gear indicator, warning lights)
Audio System:
Optional factory-fitted radio and audio system available on some models.
ABS:
Integral ABS II with combined braking (lever application on front brakes also actuates rear brake, and vice-versa under specific conditions)
Diagnostic Port:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) system accessible via a specific connector for electronic fault finding.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or annually (whichever comes first)
Major Service Interval:
Every 20,000 km (includes valve clearance check, spark plug replacement, etc.)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic SAE 15W-50 API SG/SH/SJ or JASO MA (refer to manual for specific BMW approved oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
BMW Motorrad coolant (ethylene glycol based, 50% mixture with distilled water)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, exhaust header pipe leaks
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, some units may experience minor electrical connector issues over time. The manual provides troubleshooting for these.
ABS System:
The Integral ABS II system is advanced for its time; proper bleeding procedures are crucial and detailed in the manual to avoid issues.
Bmw Motorrad History:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing high-quality, innovative motorcycles known for their engineering excellence and durability.
K Series Introduction:
The K-series, introduced in 1983 with the K100, revolutionized BMW's motorcycle line with its liquid-cooled, inline-four engines mounted transversely.
K1200Rs Development:
The K1200RS built upon the K1100LT platform, offering increased power, improved aerodynamics, and sportier handling characteristics. It represented BMW's focus on the premium sport-touring segment.
Production Period:
1997-2004 (K1200RS)
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany (Spandau plant)
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Consistently praised by motorcycle publications for its touring comfort, stable handling, and powerful engine.
Performance Awards:
Often cited in reviews as a benchmark for sport-touring motorcycles of its era.