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.
General information | |
| Category | Sport touring |
| Year | 1997 |
| Model | BMW K 1200 RS |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Starter | Electric |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Torque | 117.00 |
| Power | 130.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | In-line four |
| Capacity: | 1171.00 ccm (71.45 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Alternate seat height | 800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, highest setting. |
| Seat height | 770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 264.0 kg (582.0 pounds) |
BMW K 1200 RS dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Dual disc |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.4924 HP/kg |
| Top speed | 250.0 km/h (155.3 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find 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 For | Best 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. |
| Purpose | Built for fast, comfortable long-distance touring and high-speed autobahn cruising rather than aggressive sport riding. |
| Rider Fit | A tall, substantial machine at over 280kg wet, requiring confident strength and experience at low speeds and when stopped. |
| Character | A refined, torque-rich sport tourer with shaft drive smoothness, strong brakes, and effortless triple-digit cruising ability. |
| Not Ideal For | Not 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.
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