BMW K 1200 GT - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 BMW K 1200 GT is a sophisticated sport-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking comfort and performance on long-distance journeys. Its 1157cc inline-four engine delivers 150 horsepower and smooth power delivery through a six-speed transmission, while advanced fuel injection and liquid cooling ensure reliability. Best known for its exceptional handling balance and practical touring capabilities, it appeals to experienced riders who demand both spirited riding and touring versatility.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | BMW K 1200 GT |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Multiple-disc clutch in oil bath, hydraulically operated |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Starter | Electric |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management including knock sensor (BMS-K) |
| Bore x stroke | 79.0 x 59.0 mm (3.1 x 2.3 inches) |
| Compression | 13.0:1 |
| Torque | 130.00 |
| Power | 150.19 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | In-line four |
| Capacity: | 1157.00 ccm (70.60 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,572 mm (61.9 inches) |
| Overall width | 965 mm (38.0 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,318 mm (91.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 282.0 kg (621.7 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 249.0 kg (549.0 pounds) |
BMW K 1200 GT dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 294 mm (11.6 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. ABS |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. ABS |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 180/55-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever |
| Front suspension travel | 115 mm (4.5 inches) |
| Front suspension | BMW Motorrad Duolever |
| Trail | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 29.2° |
| Frame type | Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.6032 HP/kg |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles) | 4.80 litres (1.27 gallons) |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 2.00 litres (0.53 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 24.00 litres (6.34 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | This bike suits experienced riders who are comfortable managing a tall, heavy machine at low speeds and in traffic. |
| Purpose | It's built primarily for high-speed, long-distance touring with strong performance for effortless overtaking and covering big miles quickly. |
| Rider Fit | Riders should be reasonably tall and physically confident, as the bike's substantial weight and seat height demand solid balance at a standstill and in slow maneuvers. |
| Character | It rewards a rider who values smooth, powerful, shaft-driven cruising over razor-sharp agility, blending sport-touring pace with plush long-haul comfort. |
| Not Ideal For | It's not the right choice for new riders, off-road enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a light, flickable machine for tight urban commuting. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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⚠ Safety Recalls (3)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 R1200GS and R1200RT, 2006-2010 R1200GS Adventure, 2007-2010 R1200R, 2007 R1200S and K1200R Sport, 2005-2007 R1200ST, 2008-2009 HP2 Megamoto, 2006 HP2 Enduro, 2008-2010 HP2 Sport, 2005-2008 K1200S, 2006-2008 K1200R, K1200GT, 2009-2011 K1300S, 2010-2011 K1300R, and 2009-2010 K1300GT motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, the rear wheel mounting flange may crack if the rear wheel mounting bolts are over tightened.
Risk: If the rear wheel mounting flange cracks, the mounting bolts may loosen and the rear wheel may not remain secured to the motorcycle, causing a loss of stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the existing aluminum rear wheel flange with a steel one, free of charge. The recall began on May 7, 2015. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 model year R-model motorcycles, model year 2005-2012 K-model motorcycles, model year 2010-2011 S 1000 model motorcycles, and model year 2006-2010 HP2 motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, the fuel pump flange (and the auxiliary fuel pump flange if equipped) could develop cracks and leak fuel.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will either reinforce the fuel pump flange or replace the pump, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 16, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2007 THROUGH 2009 R 1200 AND K 1200 SERIES MOTORCYCLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 2006 THROUGH MAY 2009. DUE TO THE CURRENT ROUTING OF THE FRONT BRAKE LINES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT DURING RIDING, AND THEREFORE ASSOCIATED VIBRATION. THE BRAKE LINES COULD BE UNDER STRAIN. IF THE VIBRATION/STRAIN IS SIGNIFICANT, THE BRAKE LINE COULD SPLIT AND START TO DEVELOP A LEAK.
Risk: IF THIS GOES UNNOTICED, AND THE BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR RUNS EMPTY, THE FRONT BRAKES COULD FAIL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW BRAKE LINES, CONTAINING A "SLEEVE" ALONG A PORTION OF THE LINES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-525-7417.
Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →
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