BMW K1200S (2004 - 2008) Review
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £1,090 |
| Power: | 165 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (32.3 in / 820 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (501 lbs / 227 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesIt's easy to overlook the noew deleted K1200S if you're after a hyper-tourer along the lines of a Hayabusa or ZZR1400 - but it's your loss if you do.
The big K is as soberly classy and breathtakingly effective as ever and is durable and well-equipped if you go for a loaded-up version. Best of all, though, the 1200 is something of a steal compared to the later 1300 version.
Watch the BMW K1200S take on the 2008 Suzuki Hayabusa and the Kawasaki ZZ-R1400 in our road test
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineNever one to shy away from innovation, the BMW K1200S uses another new system for front suspension. A single shock does the work which linkages transfer the forces. The theory is it separates braking and cornering forces – which is does. It’s brilliant everywhere except a racetrack and the motorcycle is still acceptable there.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityAfter decades of obstinance, the BMW K1200S has BMW’s first across-the-frame four motorcycle engine – the layout the Japanese motorcycle manufacturers have used to dominate motorcycling. And it works. Low down torque is plentiful, midrange and top end power are excessive in the BMW K1200S. You’ll need an autobahn and big balls to get the BMW K1200S' throttle on the stop. The motorcycle's gearbox is awkward when hot.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueFew motorcycles shrug off winter better than a BMW motorcycle. That said a BMW K1200S will still need regular attention to keep it looking shiny. Shaft drive means less maintenance and expense. A few used motorcycles seemed to have suffered from vibration and quite high oil consumption. Thoughtful ownership of the BMW K1200S and to-the-book servicing may prevent this.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentBMW K1200Ss can be had for very little money nowadays, and are much cheaper than the K1300S. You can find good K1200Ss in private hands for almost as little as £3000 if you look hard enough. Find a BMW K1200S for sale.
Equipment
The BMW K1200S' comfort is better than many touring motorcycles and the electric screen is superb at making autobahn wasting totally relaxing. BMW’s panniers are quite small but don’t affect high speed handing like some larger aftermarket ones. Factory extras for the BMW K1200S include the excellent Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), low seat, heated grips, on-board computer and an alarm.
Specs |
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| Engine size | 1157cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 16v in-line four, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Aluminium twin spar |
| Fuel capacity | 19 litres |
| Seat height | 820mm |
| Bike weight | 227kg |
| Front suspension | Compression damping (only on ESA model) |
| Rear suspension | Electronic preload, compression, rebound |
| Front brake | Twin 320mm discs |
| Rear brake | 265mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 190/50 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | 41 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £101 |
| Annual service cost | £1,090 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £3,000 - £4,500 |
| Insurance group |
16 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 165 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 96 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 170 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | 10.8 secs |
| Tank range | 170 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2004: Original BMW K1200S motorcycle launched.
Other versions
None.
Owners' reviews for the BMW K1200S (2004 - 2008)
34 owners have reviewed their BMW K1200S (2004 - 2008) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your BMW K1200S (2004 - 2008)
Summary of owners' reviews |
|
| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £1,090 |
Year: 2008
Annual servicing cost: £200
Very strong confidence inspiring machine with almost 170bhp discreetly on tap
Best on good B roads or A roads. Very torquey and comfortable and can be ridden all day with limited discomfort. Brakes are good if not overwhelming. Clutch heavy and gearbox typically BMW clunky.
Superbly powerful right through the Rev range, no dips. Almost 40k miles on the clock and never fails to make me smile
Very well built with corrosion only evident on screws and nuts. Still looks great when clean
Average 45mpg, cost £120 fully comprehensive.
Michelin Pilot Roads excellent. Heated grips very good, great wind protection although MRA screen helps
Buying experience: Dealer. Paid £6500 in 2013 when bike was 5 years old
Version: Non ABS
Year: 2006
Utter nightmare throttle stuck open second time out ( exciting in a change of underwear kind of way ) then went to the other extreme stalling on roll off drank fuel like it was going out of fashion full of unnecessary er “innovations “ that don’t really work any better than older more standard set ups
When it works as it should it’s a good ride Don’t be put off by it “funny front end” it does work it copes well on all road surfaces and the bike is roomy enough for you and your pillion to ride in comfort it’s brembos are good quality and do pull the bike to a stop really well
Very strong midrange up there with the best of them tick over on mine really high ( seems a common fault ) fuel economy was crap
BMW build quality seems to be very good but mine just not reliable
A lot of bike and performance for your money but parts and services are very expensive think carefully before purchasing a blackbird or a busa will give just as much ( and more) performance with a lot less heartache
BMW heated grips very good as is electronic suspension adjustment system ( unfortunately I was starting to wonder when not if it was going to go wrong)
Year: 2006
Wonderful bike. Only minor issues...fuel gauge sensor, which BMW took care of on all the K1200's outside of the warranty period.
I'm the original owner. Bike has 70,000 miles on it. It has been a great motorcycle...probably my all time favorite. In my case...take care of it ...and it will take care of you. Second...don't track the bike...and it will take care of you!
Year: 2005
This is an update to a review submitted in Oct. 2020. Since then the bike has not turned a wheel. It has been sitting in a relatively local motorcycle workshop. The reason for this is the extreme difficulty in sourcing new replacement exhaust down pipes. No after market option is available. BMW have none available and are not the slightest bit interested in an old model. Parts are very expensive anyway but you are left with a real dilemma when you can't get them at all.
Good if you ever get it going.
Very powerful engine.
Required replacement radiator. Now requires replacement ehaust.
Ridiculously expensive parts and some like hens teeth to come by.
electronic suspension adjustment is easy to operate.
Buying experience: Buying experience was okay. Ownership experience has been the worst ever.
Year: 2005
Annual servicing cost: £120
Reliability issues earlier on as documented and expense of repairThis last year bike had been fine New Battery .... new back tyre That’s it ... MOT pass ok
New battery this year Rest done I. Previous
Buying experience: Read my posts
Year: 2005
Annual servicing cost: £200
Absolutely fantastic bike great to ride and a very capable machine for long and short journeys. Gear box is a tad clunky in low gears when cold But I can put up with this just because of the quality of this machine.
A very quick response on the throttle and this bike gives me a massive from every time I ride it
For an 05 bike she is spotless and parked in a purpose built lean to so not a garage
Can be a bit thirsty but I knew that when bought it
Buying experience: Bought this in Scotland and rode straight home to Somerset was a great ride home . Bought privately but was very impressed with the way it had been looked after.
Year: 2007
Annual servicing cost: £250
Good power, handling and comfort. Due to poor component reliability I would be reluctant to recommend it to a friend.
Electronic suspension is comfortable and allows on the fly adjustment. The seat is comfortable. Brakes can rip your thumbs off.
Torque rich acceleration. Best to stick to 98 ron fuel as it has a slight misfire otherwise which makes keeping to speed limits fraught.
Had problems with ABS pump failure, niggling brake fluid leaks from front bolt and reservoir. Differential been replaced. Frame snapped leaving gear lever and side stand inoperative. Bike has less than 10k on it.
Will be very expensive when faults occur, especially when the frame snaps.
Heated grips and electronic suspension (has the potential to fail and the expense is eye watering if it does). Lights very good. Sports panniers useful but small on the exhaust side. Conveniently, they expand allowing helmet storage in the larger one.
Year: 2008
Annual servicing cost: £250
Great sports tourer, eats up the miles easily and in comfort. Lots of torque and power and no issues with reliability. Feels heavy in town and not great as a city commuter.
No major issues.
Year: 2008
Annual servicing cost: £2,000
Yes the engine is good, yes the ride is good. But I don't care what anyone says; no bike should need thousands of pounds of work on it, that can only be done by people who work for branded mechanics, within 30 thousand miles. Ridiculous machine from a ridiculous brand who make awful, overpriced motorbikes. They look good, they have fancy features. But they fall apart.
It rides well initially, as others have said.
It overheats, and then the gasket blows. Hayabusa, ZX12R and ZZR1400 are all much faster anyway, and the Blackbird is much, much smoother and doesn't jerk about ridiculously at low revs.
3* switchgear, £600 each part and labour. 2* radiator, £550 each part and labour. 2* coils, £400 each part and labour. 1* ABS broken, £1000 part and labour. Now for the best bit: gasket blew, despite being a closed system (!!!!!) Only had to redline it once or twice for this to happen. Imagine this on a Blackbird or Hayabusa. Never, ever, would that happen. Sold at this point.
Horrible, a joke. Get a Hayabusa, a Blackbird, a ZZR1400, a ZX12, an FJR1300, anything, but this or another BMW bike.
Pointless expensive gadgets for you to waste your money on.
Buying experience: Dealers pretend they work and will be reliable, do not trust them.
Year: 2005
Powerful bike more than fast enough for real world riding. Comfortable for a bike of its type. Excellent head lights - full beam is very impresive. 45 mpg without being a slouch. Handling better suited to good A class roads which is is natural environment and where it is very good. Fiited with ESA (Electronic suspension adjustment). This is operated by a switch on the handlebar and gives comfort, normal or sport settings. The bike is let down by expensive repair costs when things go wrong. The parts prices are ridiculous in my opinion e.g. £500 plus for a radiator - £900 for replacement wiring harness.
Comfortable for longer journeys. Well suited to covering miles quickly on good roads.
Loads of performance.
Radiator had to be replaced.
serviced by local bike shop not by BMW dealership
ESA suspension I think was an optional extra on the bike it is easy to use. Miss not having a centre stand.
Year: 2007
Annual servicing cost: £3,000
Incredible ride, when it works. Unreliable Expect problems and expense Bring More Wallet, Bloody May Walk, whatever you call it, BMW didn't do well with this one. They don't look after early machines, it's like they don't wanna acknowledge they ever made them. You're buying a product and a lifestyle and are beholden to a service that neglects this model anyway. There's a reason they don't have warranties for bikes > 10 yrs. Planned obsolescence and lazy design. You don't wanna be a consumerist mug just throwing money at a fancy brand. Just don't do it, get a Japanese bike instead
Rides like an absolute dream...when it works....
Again, when it works, astonishing Can't give it 5 due to unreliability
Deeply unreliable, even later models
Bring More Wallet, Bloody May Walk, whatever you call it, BMW didn't do well with this one. They don't look after early machines, it's like they don't wanna acknowledge they ever made them. You're buying a product and a lifestyle and are beholden to a service that neglects this model anyway. Just don't do it, get a Japanese bike instead
Year: 2004
Avoid brought a 2004 model , speedo sensor failed , then part of the abs system , then died completely all were repaired by the great dealer , then would turnover but would start , weird crunch when pulling away , it looked mint but was a pile of poo
heavy to steer , poor at low speed
its a 1200 it should be powerful
100 % unreliable
very expensive too insure for what it is
heated grips worked I lie a gear indicator
Buying experience: dealer was great bike was not
Year: 2005
Expensive to fix the poor reliability on older machines
Good when it runs , still a powerful bike, and can bring a smile to my face , needs to considering the expense !
Continued issues , said I would get back , bmw - break my wallet or perhaps bloody mend weekly , speedometer sensor failure after 9 months ,(replaced summer for MOT) dealer wouldn’t replace under warranty due to split wire , said it was my fault , hmm , any way covered in metal filings = wrecked final drive...big bill again £800 repair in March 19 It hasn’t broken down since... wow , if you buy one , buy a second hand one for spares Or really think twice ? you need deep pockets and or a lot of luck ... Or you end up with triggers broom !
Buying experience: Reliability poor and expensive to repair
Year: 2005
Annual servicing cost: £2,955
BMW, second hand market needs reliable bikes, reasonable to run and cheap to fix when older, punters get wise to the companies who only want to sell new stuff with no back up or support ,(exhaust header obsolete part , that’s poor on a bike last made in 2009)? don't throw away a good reputation , your marque is renowned for older reliable bikes . Keep it.
Electrics are weak point.... coils, Ecu etc get tired and cost a lot , mileage does wear stuff out for sure , but age also effects this type of equipment , wonder if low milage older bikes are showing same symptoms ? Coil failure is not uncommon by all accounts so replacing all is good advice. When running well though , it’s a good power unit , it tears through the gears and you have to think quick to keep up with it , fuel consumption improved as well when coils done , getting much better Mpg now.
See write up on repairs in value and running costs , broke down regularly through year and prevented me from using it , long lead time at Motoradd dealers to get it fixed and some parts no longer made like exhaust headers , dealers are charming and knowledable , but are not cheap and ECU for example can only be sorted by them.
Full costs for keeping this bike running this year , you make your own mind up on if it’s worth it or a reasonable cost , my view is to think carefully before buying , low mileage cos it wasn’t running , 6 weeks each time to wait for a space at the Motoradd dealers to fix as well ....Summer soon goes ..... 3 trips in total with all the usual stress of getting a broken bike to them and expecting the worse.... Repair bills for break downs £2955.37 Free warranty work £470.80 Tax and insurance £305 Purchase price of bike £2750 Miles this year 1701 Total cost £6010.37 So around £3.53 a mile not including fuel
Bike looks nice for a 13 year old bike , still smart , few bits of flaky paint on swing arm but plastic still gleams and crack free , can’t fault this bit and all controls , switches are fine ESA works , panniers and rack, top box are bmw and are excellent
Buying experience: Keep for another year to get value for money and recuperate some of my expenses
Year: 2005
Reliability issues on older models with expensive bills.
Nice to ride on long decent A roads , but to much for power and weight for chucking about
Speedo sensor went kaput within 50 miles of bikes return , used I phone app to verify speed , then other coils went as well , so off came the body work again and two new coils and plugs , plus Speedo sensor , £450 bill ...this was July Now bike us running sweet , fuel consumption is low , it’s amazing what a difference it’s made so advice If one coil goes expect the rest to follow quickly , check exhaust for splits whilst fairing off bike and if fuel consumption increases then be ready to raid piggy bank . What else , clutch is getting a bit rattley on fire up , but stops when throttle blipped , don’t slip or snatch yet Will be year in November of ownership Not the best bike I have had , but to be fair now it’s running ok it’s growing on me ..with the cash I have spent I could have bought a more modern Japanese or UK bike
Not got to end of year yet without break down !
Year: 2005
Annual servicing cost: £2,500
Let's see what the next few months bring , hopefully the repairs will return a good reliable bike, if not, I will let you know how I get on.
When it's fixed!
See value and running costs for comments
Take care if buying an older machine, the body work hides a multitude of issues that might catch you out. First ride out after purchasing the machine it had an ECU failure. Only a main dealer can exchange and fit a new one as the keys, immobiliser etc. all go through the unit (£1300). The dealer I bought the machine from paid for this repair. Next to go wrong were the coils (the next ride out after getting it back), two replacements required. Why did they fail? The exhaust header had split in the two into one section. Incorrect back-pressure and wrong readings to the ECU/mixture via the lambda sensor. Sadly, new exhaust headers are no longer in stock from BMW and there's no date for a replacement on the computer. I have resolved the issue, however,by sourcing a secondhand one from the USA (Texas weather = little corrosion). Come on BMW , support your older machines . This part has a reputation for weakness and good second hand ones are like hens teeth . Still a £900 bill in total ...... I had to pay out as the dealer I bought from is no longer in business. Expect to pay £ ... , lots of plastic to remove so labour charges will add up , BMW don't give their parts away, that's for sure and you will soon spend the value of the bike . Best advice : Buy from a main dealer and get a warranty , buy the newest model you can afford and check the history. Mines done 60k and is a 2005 model , it is one of the older bikes so maybe this is to be expected. Just unlucky this time or is this to be expected on a BMW of this age ? This is my first BMW and I bought it because of the reputation for quality and longetivity , maybe the maker is taking a different approach with the four cylinder models , this engine was their first four cylinder machine , the boxer twins seem to live for ever though and parts are available.
Buying experience: Car Dealer who took bike in PX for a vehicle.
Year: 2006
STUPIDLY fast bike. The power is mindblowing It's long. You wont be beating GSXR's or Kawas cornering. But you'll leave them once youre out of the curve Its advertised as a sporty sport touring bike. This is pure sport bike that can be used for touring. If you want luggage etc... have some $$$$ Have i mentioned mindblowing power. 0-100 in OMGWTF seconds
Buzzy. But that's oddly also the upside. Around 4000 rpm the bike feels like its Begging to fly. Like a horse that wants to gallop.
Mine at least gets nowhere NEAR 41mpg. Try 30. Maybe if you started in 6th (the bike is powerful enough to do any legal speed in any gear start to stop)
BMW bags are insanely overpriced. As is everything else by bmw. And the lack of space on the handlebars to put cell holders, etc etc means people have solved these problems themselves.
Buying experience: I was looking for a 2006 k1200s after reading the reviews (you'll never find an owner who doesnt love theirs.. thats rare) . Got lucky and found one at my local bmw dealer. Bought it before i ever walked in the door. BMW's customer service is astonishing
Year: 2005
Best bike ever, can't get the smile off my face.
Year: 2005
Annual servicing cost: £200
Super smooth and so much torque. Ride with a smile, its absolutely awesome.
Great handling with fantastic comfort and looks.
Super fast and smooth yet manageable power.
Expensive parts when and if you need them.
Major service due May 2016 costs estimated around £500
ESA (Electronic suspension adjustment). What a great little system for quick adjustments hassle free.
Buying experience: Small dealer. Paid as advertised £4795 including sport panniers (Purchased Dec 2014) with free long distance delivery thrown in. Supplied with recent service, new MOT and good tyres and three month warranty.
Version: K1200
Year: 2006
Annual servicing cost: £350
Front suspension and steering deveoped a life endangering fault after less than 10k miles.
Great engine. Huge power. Nice feel and sound.
Severe life threatening steering fault developed at very low mileage. Inexcusable.
Good.
Buying experience: Good.
Riding sad since 1997, I had MZ125,Suzuki bandit, Z750S, CBR600F, GSXR1300R, CBR600RR, 2008 R1 and finaly 2006 model K1200S on May 2012. (-) POINTS: You have to inspect all electronics well if you buy a second hand. In some of 2005-2006 bikes there may be problems with ABS, transmission, engine and finaly tank guage. Engine, transmission and tank guage had changed under warranty on my BMW(and be sure these are really expensive) So ask if you think to buy of these elements conditions to he dealer. (+) POINTS It feels heavy first but after the wheels spin you feelp very lighter and nimble bike, even in heavy traffic. Engineering level and all paint&finish quality is #1. Cornering and high speed stability is amazing for such a big boy. You can scrap the pegs with a quality pair of tires. Acceleration is breath taking; up to 100 it is better than Busa(gen1), up to 280kmh similar to Hayabusa but over that speed you are seeking more power. Thanks God; mine can run up to 295 km/h(!) watch my video if you wish : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXYyEVYyemY Fuel consumption is very pleasing with 5,5lt/100 km. Having a chance to be able to breake while cornering under urgent conditions with ABS make you feel really really confidence. Second hand selling may become an issue (as like as Hayabusa)But if you you want a reliable safe, fast and prestious second hand bike than this is K1200S; the best bike I have ever ride. Ride Safe, Be Safe !
Without a doubt the best bike I have owned. The engine is great, very flexible, relax and ride it on the torque or open it up to experience it's full capability of propelling you at stupid speeds. The handling is sure footed and reassuring at all speeds. I have seen as much as 160 miles to reserve and then it counts down from 50 miles. Once I had the reserve counter showing 2 miles to empty and I still managed to fit in only 15 - 16 litres in the 19 litre tank! Generally I found it very comfortable but occasionally got a numb bum on longer trips. However, my bike had it's fair share of problems. If cold the engine would rattle on start up for a second or two until oil got to the cam chain tensioner and if you tried to set off quickly the clutch would make a horrible squeal. Both faults were investigated but no faults were found and a lot of other owners on forums have had the same experience with no further problems, apparently sorted on the 06 onwards bikes. The only failures I had were the gearshift potentiometer, it is used to sense what gear you are in and display it amongst other things. But when it goes wrong you still get the gear indication because the bike works out your revs vs. speed and calculates it, though it won't sense neutral so causing starting issues but you can get round these until you get it in for a fix. The worst failure I had was the brake servo (removed on later models, only used to dampen the earlier models cruder ABS). I was enjoying a bit of spirited riding and the brake fail light started flashing at me, not good entering a 30mph zone approaching a 90 degree bend from a national speed limit. Luckily there was enough residual pressure to slow me down. The brakes still worked but didn't have the huge stopping capacity that I was used to (when they worked, they are the best brakes I’ve used) so I limped home. The fault went away but I took it to BMW who plugged it in, they said the failure had logged but not what had caused it, so away I went and it happened 6 weeks later again. Apart from these issues it was a superb bike and I regret changing for my RSV Factory (on some days). It was a do anything motorcycle, touring, scratching and commuting was a joy.
When your K1200s is due for servicing get them to check throttle linkage as mine is playing up for the second time, throttle sticking open at 6.5k rpm (kind of exciting). Worse of all had major suspension failure two up, Strut connecting shock to mainframe broke in half (Luck was on my side only doing 20mph) BMW replaced free reckoned failed/seized joint, would have been fatal at any more speed so get them to check next service ok :(
Good handling for a big bike, suspension somtimes a bit choppy. Very disappointed with finish - rusty bolts, corrosion getting under paint on castings. If you use it in the winter beware! Dont believe what they say about depreciation, you'll lose more in £ notes than you would with a Jap. Clutch judder (had it replaced, still wasn't perfect). Poor fuelling compared to something like a 'Busa. Why do BMW persist in using 3 buttons for the indicators when everyone else gets away with one? How many times did I flash my left indicator at someone - the button is where the horn is on every other bike! All in all, the little flaws let down what could be a brilliant bike, expensive imperfection. Won't be buying another beemer.
Usually change every year, first bike I have had (other than an RSV - but that was too painful!) that I can't see myself wanting to change for a number of years. Has its faults, clunky gearbox, vibes etc, but that is only when I compare it to others... without a comparison I wouldn't have mentioned it. Went around Spain and France on a 950 Adventure June 07, wish I had owned this then. Too expensive, despite loving it.
I SURVIVED, JUST, BUT WILL BE DISABLED FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE The brakes on my BMW K1200S locked the road wheel[s] solid under no provocation whatsoever BMW K1200S ABS servo brake system most probably failed? Does any body know of similar incidents? We would like to speak to anyone who has suffered a similar problem with a view to BMW taking the correct action in order to prevent other BMW users from suffering a similar fate of worse Can anybody help please? Thank you to all
As the title says, the K1200S is not perfect: the engine is a bit buzzy, the clutch can be finicky, the gearbox clunks, and there are some styling cues that don't quite work, such as the huge muffler can and the 1990's Hondaesque nose. However, the engine is a fizzing, bubbly thing that always wants to deliver great power and seriously storms when you get north of 6,000 rpm. The handling, while criticized by some as being slow in the steering and the Hossack frontend lacking feel, is absolutely planted and stays resolutely on line even when encountering a mid corner bump or the need to brake. Speaking of brakes, these things are foolproof and provide enormous power safely, all with the peace of mind of linked front-and-rear braking with ABS. Straight line stability is rock solid and unhampered by side winds and gusty days. Ride quality is excellent: compliant with good bump absorption, but without feeling cushy or soft. There is a little slack in the driveline, and this can be accentuated by the on-and-off fueling, but the maintenance-free shaft is great for weekend riders. And let's face it - we are the majority of motorcycle owners. The equipment is first class and the ESA is a must have option. The comfort for a sports bike is pretty good as well.
For real life bumpy back roads there isn't a better sports bike out there, and for fast motorway cruising only the specialised tourers can beat it. The ESA is awesome; mine is mostly set on "sport" but for two-up cruising the "comfort" setting keeps the wife happy! Positive: Handling, brakes, stability, engine (it begs to be ridden hard), ESA (!!!). Negative: Gearbox (clunky) and poor on/off throttle transition fueling at 2500/3000 revs. My last bike was an Aprilia RSV1000R Factory and the K12S is just as exciting when ridden hard but way more practical and has alot better stability. On all but the tightest corners I am faster on the K12S because it gives me the confidence to improve my riding.
I have had several different bikes over the years but this beats everything hands down! It does it all - tour comfortably, blitz 'A' roads, scratch on 'B'roads far better than a bike this size has any right to, and is so easy to use with its smooth power delivery and awesome torque! After owning the new K1200GT for 6 months before changing, I was expecting a notchy gearbox for the first few thousand miles, but this has no glitches at all and it goes up and down the box beautifully, with just a snick of the lever. The engine is just staggering - endless power that goes on and on for ever. The brakes are possibly the best on the market and the lights are excellent. Comfort is not quite as good as the GT but you can ride for hours without getting back ache - the bars are in just the right position and the wind protection is surprisingly good. The handling is truly excellent for a big bike. It is surprisingly flickable but what stands out is the planted feel you get when cornering - reminds me very much of the ZX7R I used to have. It really does feel as if it is on rails and totally unflappable. Are there weaknesses? Well, I cannot find any. Yes, it is expensive, but the build quality is second to none and you really do get refinement from BMW these days. For long distance touring you could do with a slightly bigger tank but that is being very fussy! The panniers are actually very good although their style is odd to start with - they do grow on you. This is an aweful lot of bike and it will surprise many people who have old-fashioned ideas about BMW - try one; you will be amazed!
I bought the k12s in June 2005. The bike its fully loaded:esa(electronic sospention adjustment), abs, alarm, BMW paniers and gps system.I had a Honda CBR1000F for 10 years and decided I wanted a supersportourer, as the CBR was getting on a bit. I looked & testrode a few (Backbird, Triumph Sprint ST, Kawasaki 1200, and VFR), but when I looked at the K12's I loved the look, it only took a 2 hour test ride on it to make me part with around £12,000!!! I toured around Europe on it(Blackforest trip last year,and Loire castles trip this year....Alps next year!) and it's perfect for me for fast touring. The ergos are perfect as well (I'm 6 feet tall & put a double bubble screen on, which deflects the wind to the top of my helmet). Although the performance is the same as most 1000 sportsbikes, the riding position it not at all extreme and I can ride all day long with no aches and pains. I also use it to commute to & from work (90 miles round trip), and go out with friends at the week end.The k1200s does this perfectly. Strengths: This bike is a missile and it's alround ability its fantastic! I've found it reliable. The brakes are the best on anything on 2 wheels,and the stability and handling are perfect. this bike is on it's own rail....pick a line & it will not move!! Weaknesses: Clunky 1-2-3 gear shift, slight fuelling glitch at betweeen 2/3k revs., goes too fast too easily. Watch out for points on your licence!!!!
I bought this bike a week ago and the dealer told me not to go above 6000rpm for the first 600 miles (which seems to be taking forever). However the power band starts from 2000rpm so you don't mind so much. This bike corners like it is on rails and the breaks are the best I've ever tried on any bike. Plus the seat and mirrors are fantastic. If you can afford it, this is the best bike around and all the bike you would ever need. Strengths: Engine, performance, handling, brakes, mirrors and seat are all of the highest quality. Weaknesses: Price tag mainly, but also other few little gripes. I wouldnt call them anything more than that. You need to have very close control with the clutch due to its power and yet the clutch is quite heavy so I'd suggest to test ride the bike in a city before you buy it. Also the gear change from 1-2 and 2-3 sound a bit clunky. But other than that, this bike is perfect.
I tried a lot of sports bikes and sports tourers before this bike. I think this has it all! Looks, handling, POWER, comfort (I am 6-3) I just absolutely love it! The ESA is just the trick, never noticed the shaft and this makes it so clean. I just can't say how much I love this bike.... and no, haven't found anything I don't like! Testers have column inches to fill, real-world, this is more than enough for 99% of riders. Strengths: Comfort, power, handling, looks. Weaknesses: Can't stay off it!
Overall this bike has all the real world rideability that you could ever want/need. Sporty seated position but comfortable (similar to VFR), real power and torque. Ok, it's not a sport bike and does weigh a fair chunk, but on the road it all helps. Love the ESA, love the heated grips, BM alarm is easy to use. BM panniers are a clever bit of design, didn't like them at first but after a couple of trips I found that the hard shell/flexible size is a real bonus. Strengths: Brakes - awesome power. Engine very smooth, injection is much better than orignal pre-producation demo models of late 04. Shaft drive. ESA is great. Handling. Quality, quality, quality! Makes Jap' bikes look poorly finished, but then they are cheaper! Weaknesses: Gearbox, 1-3 very clunky, although dropping the height of the lever around 10mm from the factory setting makes a huge difference. Probably the shaft drive adding extra weight to the system. Decrease play of rear brake (from factory setting) to get real power from it. £12K new with ESA, ABS, Heated grips, alarm and panniers - but it is worth it.
I was amazed with the handling and control on a larger bike (cbr900 before), also the electronic suspension adjustment is really good, you can just change the setting whilst going along. It's also very comfortable to ride, very good brakes and the acceleration and handling are up there with the best. You just have to try one! Strengths: Handling, suspension, mirrors, acceleration, shaft drive, sport panniers... Weaknesses: It does not like to be ridden too slowly, it prefers spirited gear changes. The price is in Malta Lira.
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Front view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Brakes
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Riding
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
BMW K1200S motorcycle review - Side view
