Segment:
Premium adventure touring, sport touring motorcycles
Key Competitors:
KTM Adventure series, Triumph Tiger series, Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Super Tenere
Vehicle Highlights:
Versatility, rider comfort, technological integration, robust Boxer engine, long-distance capability
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, saving time and money while ensuring optimal motorcycle performance and longevity.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair
Specific Models Covered:
BMW R1200GS (all variants), BMW R1200RT (all variants), BMW R1200ST (all variants)
Estimated Page Count:
700+
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, diagnostics
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, clutch, shaft drive, maintenance, repair
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (Telelever, Paralever), steering, wheels, tires
Brakes:
ABS (Integral ABS variants), brake system maintenance, bleeding procedures, component replacement
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, charging system, ignition system, diagnostic ports (OBD-II equivalent), instrument cluster, control units (ECU, ABS module)
Bodywork:
Fairings, panels, seat, fuel tank, luggage systems, ergonomics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain/shaft drive maintenance, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnosis
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair/replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools for maintenance and repair
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic owner maintenance to in-depth professional workshop repair and diagnostics
Digital Format Details:
Searchable PDF, hyperlinked table of contents for easy navigation
Print Recommendation:
High-resolution images and clear text, suitable for printing key sections
Digital Binding Equivalent:
Structured and organized for efficient workflow
Digital Paper Equivalent:
Optimized for screen viewing and digital annotation
Engine Type:
Air/oil-cooled, four-stroke flat-twin (Boxer) engine
Bore X Stroke:
101 mm x 73 mm
Power Output:
Approximately 100-110 hp (varies by model year and variant)
Torque Output:
Approximately 115-120 Nm (varies by model year and variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (BMW Synlever)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (premium unleaded recommended)
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition with knock sensor
Cooling System:
Air cooling with supplementary oil cooling (some models feature additional oil coolers)
Type:
6-speed manual gearbox
Clutch:
Single dry clutch, hydraulically actuated
Drive Type:
Shaft drive to rear wheel
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 synthetic gear oil (e.g., BMW Gear Oil LS, Castrol SAF-XJ)
ABS Standard:
Standard on most later models; often Integral ABS
Traction Control:
Available as optional equipment (ASC - Automatic Stability Control) on many models
Suspension Features:
Telelever front suspension, Paralever rear suspension for stability and precise feedback
Lighting:
Halogen or LED headlights, LED taillights and turn signals (depending on year/model)
Instrumentation:
Multi-function LCD display, analogue tachometer, speed indicator; some models feature integrated radio/audio systems and GPS preparation
ABS Details:
BMW Integral ABS, with optional partial or full Integral ABS depending on model year and specification
Traction Control Details:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available as an option on select models, managing engine torque for improved traction
Diagnostic Interface:
BMW proprietary diagnostic connector; troubleshooting often requires specialized BMW diagnostic equipment (e.g., GT1, ISTA/D)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (check specific model year)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km or 24,000 km (check specific model year and variant)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or 40,000 km (depending on spark plug type)
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50, API SG/SH/SJ or higher, JASO MA rated (e.g., BMW Motorrad Adventure Formula 15W-50)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (for ABS and non-ABS systems)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitor, suitable for BMW motorcycles (e.g., BMW Motorrad Coolant)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch slave cylinder leaks, FD seal leaks, ABS sensor failures, fuel pump issues, alternator brushes wear
Troubleshooting Focus:
Detailed diagnostics for common electronic faults, fuel system irregularities, and mechanical wear
Manufacturer History:
BMW Motorrad, a division of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, particularly with its iconic Boxer engine.
Gs Lineage:
The R1200GS is the latest iteration of BMW's successful 'Gelände/Straße' (Off-road/Street) dual-purpose motorcycle line, evolving from earlier R80G/S and R1100/1150GS models.
Rt Lineage:
The R1200RT is a modern sport-touring motorcycle building on BMW's legacy of comfortable, high-performance touring bikes.
St Lineage:
The R1200ST offered a sportier, more aerodynamic take on the Boxer platform, bridging the gap between the GS and RT.
Production Years:
R1200GS: 2004-2012 (air/oil-cooled); R1200RT: 2005-2014; R1200ST: 2005-2007
Gs Awards:
The R1200GS, in particular, has consistently received awards and accolades for its versatility, capability, and desirability in the adventure touring segment from various motorcycle publications worldwide.
Reliability Perception:
Generally high, with a strong reputation for build quality and engineering, though specific components may require attention as per maintenance schedule.
