Experienced bikers will no doubt love the challenge that the BMW K1200R presents. This naked motorcycle has plenty of power and torque and a unique retro look and takes some initial getting used to but once you have a handle on this bike you won’t look back.
The K1200R is definitely more of a touring bike than a sports bike and the engine backs this up; it has an in-line four which takes inspiration from the 1200S, BMW’s sports touring motorcycle but it has lower gearing and less wind protection which makes any ride feel much faster than on the BMW 1200S. The engine might be pretty straightforward but it gives all the grunt you might need and plenty more besides.
This is not a bike for rookies, it is heavy and until you know how the bike rides it can feel tricky to handle; once you have learnt how to use it then you will find that despite its size it acquits itself well on twisting roads with good suspension too. BMW’s are known for making bikes well and the 1200R is no exception; owners report limited issues other than with a few early models and as with all bikes, as long as you keep having them serviced regularly then they will just keep going.
There are plenty of additional add-ons you can purchase to customise this bike from Electronic Suspension Adjustment to a sports pack complete with 6 inch rims if you want to change things up as well.
German built BMW has a known attitude towards quality... from 2006 onward it lost a bit but still very good built
Engine Rating
Boxer engine... huge and very reliable... clutch is a weak part of it... don't cook it otherwise it will cost you loads
Brake Rating
Servo powered ABS brakes.. just perfect
Running Cost
The clutch which has being improved on the new water cooled engines
Overall
Pros Comments
It is a heavy bike to ride… but when you got the hangs of it you can play as much as you can… On wet weather it hardly gets a wheel spin, the ABS brake system helps with locking and loosing the front end (try to rid it without the ABS on…)
You have to learn how to use its bike and be gentile you the shaft drive otherwise it will cost you some money.
The power band starts very low and even with a full petrol load you can fell the front wheel trying to lift up every time you open the throttle..
When you had it for a while it is difficult to change for another one… maybe changing for a newer version..
Cons Comments
The clutch which has being improved on the new water cooled engines
Submitted by:
James White
Review Date: November 2017
Comfort
In-line 4, shaft drive, duo lever front suspension. This is a match made in heaven. All the tarmac turns to butter and the miles all add up. ESA is a dream. Comfort cuddles you across countries and sports lets you dip that knee down.
Ride Quality
This is the bikes cherry on the top. Big displacement, low centre of gravity and a bmw unorthodox suspension. Bumps will run away from you as you glide over countries effortlessly.
Build Quality & Reliability
11 years in the road. No paint flaking no electrical problems. What more can you say?
Engine Rating
Well 163bhp, is certainly something to write home about. The power band is smooth and very grown up until you reach 9grand then the scenery starts to move considerably faster… the torque is nicely spread around 99fb. Only downsides are the gear box which need a hammer to change up and down between 1st to 3rd and the cam chain rattle is neutral is one of the most displeasing sounds I’ve ever heard but bmw say it’s part of the charm.
Brake Rating
Abs front and back and 320 dual disc on a 4 piston calliper brings the 238kg down to a firm resssiring stop. Though the servo brakes do take some time getting used to, but they work a treat.
Running Cost
Running costs… the iccliease heal to anyone who owns a bmw, mpg is around the low 40s and you’ll be searching for a petrol station just after 160 miles with its little 19 litre tank. Which is frustrating when touring, got to be sensible when planning yours stops. Servicing is pricy, Every 6000 miles is an oil and filter, valves are every 12000 and the shaft every 18000. But we all know that’s the price we pay for a bmw.
Overall
Pros Comments
You’ll be in an exclusive club, just over 300 of these exist in the uk, it’s a head turner and under all the bonkers look is a sensible long distance roadster. Bonkers to look at, bonkers suspension, fabulous drive, guaranteed exclusiveness on the road. Silly enough to loose your licence in first gear. A gem of a bike that quietly goes unnoticed in the world of GS’s
Cons Comments
Cons. Servicing is pricey and that can chain rattle will get on your nerves.
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