BMW R 1200 C Independence - 2005 Specifications and Reviews
The 2005 BMW R 1200 C Independence is a cruiser-style motorcycle built for riders seeking classic American aesthetics with BMW reliability. Its 1170cc boxer engine delivers smooth, torquey performance ideal for relaxed highway cruising and comfortable long-distance touring. Known for its distinctive retro styling and shaft-drive practicality, it appeals to riders valuing tradition over sportiness.
2005
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2005 |
| Model | BMW R 1200 C Independence |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | Single-disc dry clutch, hydraulically operated |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition |
| Bore x stroke | 101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches) |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Torque | 98.00 |
| Power | 60.34 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Two cylinder boxer |
| Capacity: | 1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,650 mm (65.0 inches) |
| Overall width | 1,050 mm (41.3 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,340 mm (92.1 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,130 mm (44.5 inches) |
| Seat height | 740 mm (29.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 259.0 kg (571.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 239.0 kg (526.9 pounds) |
BMW R 1200 C Independence dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 285 mm (11.2 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Double disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 305 mm (12.0 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 170/80-ZR15 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-ZR18 |
| Rear suspension travel | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Die-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever |
| Front suspension travel | 35 mm (1.4 inches) |
| Front suspension | BMW Motorrad Telelever |
| Trail | 86 mm (3.4 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 29.5° |
| Frame type | Three-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine. |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.2525 HP/kg |
| Top speed | 168.0 km/h (104.4 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
60.3 hp
Peak Power
7.5s
0-60 mph
104.4 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track10%
City45%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding55%
Touring60%
Passenger55%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This bike suits an experienced rider who is comfortable managing a heavy, low-slung cruiser at low speeds and in tight maneuvers. |
| Purpose | It's built for relaxed, styling-focused boulevard and highway cruising rather than outright speed or sport riding. |
| Rider Fit | The low seat height helps shorter riders, but the substantial dry weight of 239 kg demands good upper body strength and confidence when pushing the bike around at a standstill. |
| Character | It has a distinctive, torque-driven boxer character with a shaft drive, projecting a laid-back, premium cruiser personality rather than a raw performance one. |
| Not Ideal For | This is not the right bike for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high top-speed thrills. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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