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2008 BMW K 1200S Overview
The 2008 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. The bore and stroke measures 79 x 59 mm. 2008 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 2008 K 1200S tips the scales at 248 kg, carries a 19-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1,571 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2008 BMW K 1200S spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2008 K 1200S - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 2008 BMW K 1200S makes 124.5 kW @ 10250 rpm with 129 Nm @ 8250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Throttle response and fuelling
The fuel injection on the 2008 BMW K 1200S is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.
Valve clearance checks
DOHC engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.
K 1200S - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2008 BMW K 1200S, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. 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 on any K 1200S. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. 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. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.
2008 BMW K 1200S - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2008 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2008 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 2008 BMW K 1200S?
The 2008 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 2008 BMW K 1200S weigh?
The 2008 BMW K 1200S weighs 248 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2008 BMW K 1200S make?
The 2008 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 2008 BMW K 1200S?
The 2008 BMW K 1200S has a 19-litre fuel tank.
Is the 2008 BMW K 1200S suitable for shorter riders?
The 2008 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 2008 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2008 BMW K 1200S uses Double disc at the front and Single disc at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2008 BMW K 1200S use?
The 2008 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 2008 BMW K 1200S have?
The 2008 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 |
248 kg / 547 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity |
19 L / 5.0 US gal |
19 L / 5.0 US gal |
| Frame Type |
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine |
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine |
| Brakes - Front |
Double disc |
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers |
| Brakes - Rear |
Single disc |
Single ∅265mm disc, 2 piston caliper |
| Suspension - Front |
BMW Motorrad Duolever |
BMW Motorrad Duolever; central spring strut |
| Suspension - Rear |
BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound |
BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound |
| Fuel System |
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management including knock sensor (BMS-K) |
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management including knock sensor (BMS-K) |
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
19.00 litres / 5.02 gallons
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Full 2008 BMW K 1200S Specifications
Year
2007 - 08
Make Model
BMW K 1200S
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in.
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in.
Wheelbase
1,571 mm / 61.9 in.
Wheelbase
1,571 mm / 61.9 in.
Length
2,182 mm / 85.9 in.
Length
2,182 mm / 85.9 in.
Width
905 mm / 35.6 in.
Dry Weight
227.5 kg / 501.6 lbs
Dry Weight
248 kg / 547 lbs
Fuel Capacity
19.00 litres / 5.02 gallons
Fuel Capacity
19 L / 5.0 US gal
Wet Weight
248.0 kg / 546.7 lbs
Stroke
4
Engine Type
In-line four
Displacement (ci)
70.60 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)
1157.00 cc
Bore x Stroke (mm)
79.0 x 59.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)
3.1 x 2.3 inches
Stroke
4
Fuel Control
DOHC
Engine Type
In-line four
Displacement
1157 cc / 70.6 cu in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, transverse four cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Injection. Electronic fuel injection
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
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
Fuel Reserve
2.00 litres / 0.53 gallons
Ignition
Electronic
Starter
Electric
Starter
Electric
Valve System
4
Clutch
Hydraulic, wet, multi-disc
Clutch
Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, hydraulically operated
Final Drive
Shaft
Final Drive
Shaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox
6-speed
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission / Drive
6 Speed
Frame Type
Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine
Frame Type
Bridging frame, die-cast aluminium, load bearing engine
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad Duolever
Suspension - Front
BMW Motorrad Duolever; central spring strut
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever
Suspension - Rear
BMW Paralever with progressive damping single shock absorber, remotely adjustable for preload and rebound
Rake
29.0°
Trail
119 mm / 4.7 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
115 mm / 4.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
115 mm / 4.5 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear
135 mm / 5.3 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 - Rear Diameter (mm)
265 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
10.4 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
320 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
12.6 inches
Brakes - Front
Double disc
Brakes - Front
2 x ∅320mm discs, 4 piston calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single disc
Brakes - Rear
Single ∅265mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
120/70-17
Tyres - Front
120/70-17
Tyres - Rear
190/50-17
Tyres - Rear
190/50-17
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