BMW R 1200 CL - 2004 Specifications and Reviews

The 2004 BMW R 1200 CL is a cruiser-styled motorcycle built for riders seeking low-slung comfort and classic aesthetic appeal. Powered by a 1170cc boxer twin producing 61 horsepower, it delivers relaxed, torque-rich performance ideal for laid-back touring and highway cruising. Known for its distinctive retro design, smooth power delivery, and BMW reliability, it appeals to riders valuing comfort and style over sportiness.

4 stars Average rating: 4 from 2 votes
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2004
ModelBMW R 1200 CL

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases118.3 CO
Fuel consumption5.10 litres/100 km (19.6 km/l or 46.12 mpg)
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Fuel controlSOHC
Fuel systemInjection
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Top speed165.0 km/h (102.5 mph)
Torque98.00 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3000
Power61.00
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Capacity:1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter285 mm (11.2 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter305 mm (12.0 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions170/80-VR15
Front tyre dimensions150/80-VR16
Rear suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspensionDie-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of hydraulic handwheel
Front suspension travel144 mm (5.7 inches)
Front suspensionBMW Motorrad Telelever; stanchion diameter 35 mm, central strut
Frame typeThree-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine.

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 gallons)
Fuel capacity17.50 litres (4.62 gallons)
Wheelbase1,641 mm (64.6 inches)
Overall width1,075 mm (42.3 inches)
Overall length2,415 mm (95.1 inches)
Overall height1,435 mm (56.5 inches)
Seat height745 mm (29.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2118 HP/kg
Dry weight288.0 kg (634.9 pounds)

Other specs

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

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

60.3 hp
Peak Power
7.5s
0-60 mph
102.5 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track5%
City40%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding60%
Touring80%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very heavy, low-powered touring cruiser at low speeds.
PurposeBuilt as a boulevard-style luxury tourer, prioritizing relaxed cruising and passenger comfort over performance.
Rider FitIts low seat height and long wheelbase make it accessible for shorter riders, but nearly 310 kg fully fueled demands strength and confidence in stop-and-go maneuvering.
CharacterA stately, shaft-driven boxer cruiser with a plush ride, ample torque low in the rev range, and a distinctly unhurried, cruiser-touring personality.
Not Ideal ForNot for riders seeking sporty handling, quick acceleration, or any off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2004 BMW R 1200 CL Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 745mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2004 BMW R 1200 CL, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. 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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