Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly and reassembly.
Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:
Wiring harness repair, component testing and replacement, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Brake System Service:
Brake bleeding, pad replacement, caliper and master cylinder overhaul, ABS system bleeding and diagnostics.
Suspension Overhaul:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, steering head bearing replacement.
Bodywork Repair And Modification:
Panel removal/installation, trim replacement, accessory fitting.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and advanced system repairs.
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Downloadable PDF)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Downloadable PDF)
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline-four cylinder
Displacement:
1171 cc (for 1999-2000 models) / 1200 cc (for 2001 onwards models, though the manual covers 1171cc for early years)
Bore X Stroke:
70.5 mm x 75 mm (approximate, varies slightly by year/model)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1 (typical)
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Performance
Horsepower:
Approximately 98-100 hp @ 7500 rpm (for earlier 1171cc models)
Torque:
Approximately 110-115 Nm @ 5250 rpm (for earlier 1171cc models)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Bosch Motronic system
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil System
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil meeting API SG or higher
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 liters (with filter change)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, multi-plate wet clutch
Final Drive:
Shaft drive with universal joint
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 2.818, 2nd: 1.923, 3rd: 1.474, 4th: 1.214, 5th: 1.036)
Final Drive Ratio:
2.818:1 (typical)
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 GL-4 hypoid gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.35 liters
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 2380 mm (93.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 970 mm (38.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1576 mm (62.0 in)
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 296 kg (653 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 323 kg (712 lbs) (fully fueled and ready to ride)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not officially specified, but payload capacity is significant.
Cargo
Luggage Capacity:
Large integrated saddlebags and top case with considerable volume.
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Certification:
Meets or exceeds all relevant safety standards for motorcycles in its class.
Active Features
Braking System:
Integral ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with combined front and rear braking application via the brake lever, and optional rear-only activation via the brake pedal.
Traction Control:
Not standard on these early models, but available on later K1200LT variants.
Sturdy frame, full fairing offering rider protection from elements and debris.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and reduced fatigue on long journeys, promoting better control.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Integrated radio with cassette player or CD changer capability, often with handlebar-mounted controls. Speaker system integrated into fairing.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most K1200LT models for enhanced long-distance comfort.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Integral ABS, a significant safety feature for its time, providing enhanced braking control.
Connectivity
Diagnostic Port:
BMW's proprietary diagnostic port, allowing connection to advanced diagnostic tools for fault code reading and system analysis. The manual will detail standard diagnostic procedures.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection Cleaning:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (API SG or higher)
Transmission Oil:
SAE 75W-90 GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Coolant:
BMW recommended ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitor (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Known Issues
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early models could experience fuel pump issues, often related to diaphragm failure. Diagnosis and replacement procedures are detailed.
Starter Clutch Wear:
Some K-series models can develop wear in the starter clutch mechanism, leading to a grinding noise during starting. The manual will guide diagnosis and replacement.
Rear Shock ABSorber:
The original rear shock absorber may degrade over time, affecting ride quality. Service or replacement information is crucial.
ABS System Faults:
ABS hydraulic units or sensors can sometimes fail. Troubleshooting and bleeding procedures are detailed.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in wiring harnesses, particularly in areas exposed to the elements, can cause intermittent faults. The manual's wiring diagrams are essential here.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Motorcycle Division History:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to the 1920s, with a reputation for engineering excellence and innovation.
Model Evolution
K Series Introduction:
The K-series was BMW's foray into water-cooled, inline-engine motorcycles, offering a different character than their traditional boxer twins.
K1200Lt Introduction:
The K1200LT was introduced in 1997 as the successor to the K1100LT, evolving into a premier luxury touring machine with a focus on comfort, technology, and performance for its era.
Production
Production Period Covered:
1999-2003 models, part of a longer production run from 1997 to 2009.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Acclaim:
Consistently praised by motorcycle publications for its comfort, performance, and touring capabilities upon its release and throughout its production run.
Ratings
Rider Reviews:
Highly regarded by owners for its suitability for long-distance travel, often accumulating high mileage.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets emissions standards applicable to the model years in various global markets. Manual will contain relevant specifications.