BMW K 1200 RS - 1997 Specifications and Reviews

The 1997 BMW K 1200 RS is a sophisticated sport-touring motorcycle that blends performance with comfort for riders seeking long-distance capability without sacrificing agility. Its liquid-cooled 1171cc inline-four engine delivers 130 horsepower with smooth shaft drive reliability, making it ideal for both spirited riding and touring adventures. Known for its refined engineering and balanced handling, the K 1200 RS set the standard for the sport-touring category.

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General information

CategorySport touring
Year1997
ModelBMW K 1200 RS

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Valves per cylinder4
Torque117.00
Power130.00
Stroke4
Engine typeIn-line four
Capacity:1171.00 ccm (71.45 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Alternate seat height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Seat height770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight264.0 kg (582.0 pounds)

BMW K 1200 RS dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDual disc

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.4924 HP/kg
Top speed250.0 km/h (155.3 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

128.7 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
155.3 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track45%
City45%
Cornering65%
Daily Riding70%
Touring92%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to experienced riders comfortable managing a heavy, powerful shaft-drive machine, note the listed engine type as single-cylinder appears to be a data error since this is BMW's inline-four K1200 platform.
PurposeBuilt for fast, comfortable long-distance touring and high-speed autobahn cruising rather than aggressive sport riding.
Rider FitA tall, substantial machine at over 280kg wet, requiring confident strength and experience at low speeds and when stopped.
CharacterA refined, torque-rich sport tourer with shaft drive smoothness, strong brakes, and effortless triple-digit cruising ability.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for new riders, tight urban commuting, or anyone seeking a light, flickable machine for canyon carving.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1997 BMW K 1200 RS Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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Feet:

At 770mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 BMW K 1200 RS, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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