![]()
No images available
Tap to enlarge
![]()
2005 BMW K 1200S Overview
The 2005 BMW K 1200S is a sport motorcycle built around 1157 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits an In-line four engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 13.0:1. 2005 BMW K 1200S delivers 124.5 kW @ 10250 rpm of peak power and 129 Nm @ 8250 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 286 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2005 K 1200S tips the scales at 248 kg, carries a 19 L fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1,571 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 53.4 kg heavier than the average sport motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2005 BMW K 1200S spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2005 BMW K 1200S compared with other bikes in the Sport category
Here is how the 2005 BMW K 1200S stacks up against other bikes in the Sport category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 2003 models.
- Torque of 129 Nm is higher than that of 1472 of the other 1572 bikes in the Sport category.
- Only 79 of the other 879 bikes in the Sport category have a higher top speed than the 286 km/h of the K 1200S.
- With 1157 cc, the K 1200S has the joint 189th largest engine displacement of 2003 bikes in the Sport category, 64% above the category average of 706 cc.
- Narrowing the field to the 429 models within five model years of it, the torque of 129 Nm is higher than that of 401 of the other 428.
2005 K 1200S - Pros & Cons
Strengths
-
⚡
Strong power output: 2005 BMW K 1200S makes 124.5 kW @ 10250 rpm with 129 Nm @ 8250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
-
🔧
Fuel injection: The fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
-
🛑
Strong front braking: The disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
-
⛽
Large fuel range: The 19 L tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
-
⚙️
Low-maintenance final drive: Shaft final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.
Considerations
-
📏
Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Wear Points & Servicing Notes
Cooling system servicing
The Liquid cooled system on the K 1200S needs a coolant change roughly every two years (or per the service schedule) - skipping it lets the coolant turn acidic and corrode the aluminium water passages over time.
Fuelling & injector care
Fuelling comes from fuel injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.
Valve clearance checks
DOHC valve actuation on the K 1200S means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.
Brake disc and pad wear
The disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.
Suspension condition on used examples
Up front, the K 1200S runs BMW Motorrad Duolever; central spring strut and BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.
Final drive maintenance
Final drive is by shaft - no chain or belt maintenance at all, though the drive-shaft oil should be changed on the manufacturer's interval.
Frame & chassis check
The frame is Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.
Handling the weight at a standstill
At 248 kg, the K 1200S is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.
K 1200S - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2005 BMW K 1200S with its 1157 cc sport, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs shaft final drive, so ask for proof the shaft-drive gear oil has been changed on schedule - it's easy to overlook since there's no chain to draw attention to it. Now 21 years old, this sport is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained K 1200S should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the K 1200S's 1157 cc in-line four. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 13.0:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The K 1200S's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used K 1200S. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.
2005 BMW K 1200S - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2005 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S uses an In-line four engine with 1157 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2005 BMW K 1200S?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S has a factory-quoted top speed of 286 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2005 BMW K 1200S weigh?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S weighs 248 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2005 BMW K 1200S make?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S produces 124.5 kW @ 10250 rpm of power and 129 Nm @ 8250 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2005 BMW K 1200S?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S has a 19 L fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 316-380 km between stops.
Is the 2005 BMW K 1200S suitable for shorter riders?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S has a seat height of 820 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2005 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S uses 2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers at the front and single ∅265mm disc, 2 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2005 BMW K 1200S use?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S runs 120/70-17 front and 190/50-17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2005 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2005 BMW K 1200S is fitted with a 6 Speed transmission.
BMW K 1200S Spec Evolution
The BMW K 1200S was produced across 2 model years (2006-2008). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2006 |
2008 |
| Dry Weight |
226.5 kg / 499.3 lbs |
227 kg / 500.4 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity |
19 L / 5.0 US gal |
19 L / 5.0 US gal |
| Stroke |
59.0 mm |
59.0 mm |
| Frame Type |
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine |
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine |
| Brakes - Front |
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers |
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers |
| Brakes - Rear |
Single disc |
Single disc |
| Suspension - Front |
BMW Motorrad Duolever |
BMW Motorrad Duolever; central spring strut |
| Suspension - Rear |
Die-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever |
BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound |
Key Specifications
Power
124.5 kW / 167 hp @ 10250 rpm
Torque
129 Nm / 13.2 kgf-m / 95.4 lb-ft @ 8250 rpm
Top Speed
286 km/h / 178 mph
Weight
248.0 kg / 546.7 lbs
Fuel Capacity
19 L / 5.0 US gal
Advertisement
Full 2005 BMW K 1200S Specifications
Year
2005 - 06
Make
BMW
Model
K 1200S
Make Model
BMW K 1200S
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in.
Wheelbase
1,571 mm / 61.9 in.
Height
1,211 mm / 47.7 in.
Length
2,182 mm / 85.9 in.
Width
905 mm / 35.6 in.
Dry Weight
226.5 kg / 499.3 lbs
Fuel Capacity
19 L / 5.0 US gal
Wet Weight
248.0 kg / 546.7 lbs
Engine Type
In-line four
Fuel Control
DOHC
Stroke
59.0 mm
Displacement
1157 cc / 70.6 cu in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management including knock sensor (BMS-K)
Bore x Stroke
79 X 59 mm
Compression Ratio
13.0:1
Cooling System
Liquid cooled
Fuel Consumption
6.7 L/100 km / 15 km/l / 35.3 US mpg
Fuel Induction
Injection
Ignition
Electronic
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Clutch
Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, hydraulically operated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission / Drive
6 Speed
Frame Type
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad Duolever; central spring strut
Suspension - Rear
BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound
Rake
29.0°
Trail
112 mm / 4.4 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
115 mm / 4.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear
135 mm / 5.3 in.
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
12.6 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
320 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
10.4 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
265 mm
Brakes - Front
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single ∅265mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
120/70-17
Tyres - Rear
190/50-17
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced
technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis.
Spot an error? Let us know.
Advertisement