14 August. Friday 2026
BMW R 1200 S - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 BMW R 1200 S is a sport-oriented boxer twin designed for riders seeking agile handling and classic BMW character with modern performance. Its 1170cc air-oil cooled engine delivers 121 horsepower with responsive mid-range torque, ideal for spirited road riding. Known for its nimble chassis, shaft drive reliability, and the distinctive horizontal cylinder design that defines the R-series.
General information | |
| Category | Sport |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | BMW R 1200 S |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Greenhouse gases | 99.8 CO |
| Fuel consumption | 4.30 litres/100 km (23.3 km/l or 54.70 mpg) |
| Clutch | Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Fuel control | SOHC |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches) |
| Compression | 12.5:1 |
| Torque | 112.00 Nm (11.4 kgf-m or 82.6 ft.lbs) @ 6800 |
| Power | 120.69 |
| Engine type | Two cylinder boxer, two-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 265 mm (10.4 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 180/55-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever |
| Front suspension travel | 110 mm (4.3 inches) |
| Front suspension | BMW Motorrad Telelever |
| Trail | 87 mm (3.4 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 24.0° |
| Frame type | Three-section frame consisting of front, middle and rear sections, load bearing engine-gearbox unit |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 2.00 litres (0.53 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,487 mm (58.5 inches) |
| Overall width | 870 mm (34.3 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,151 mm (84.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 830 mm (32.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.6352 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 213.0 kg (469.6 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 190.0 kg (418.9 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
120.7 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track85%
City50%
Cornering92%
Daily Riding50%
Touring45%
Passenger35%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This bike suits experienced riders who are comfortable with a firm, aggressive sportbike that rewards precise inputs. |
| Purpose | It's built primarily for spirited road riding and canyon carving, blending boxer-twin character with genuine sport handling. |
| Rider Fit | The high seat height and committed, forward-leaning riding position demand decent flexibility and confidence at low speeds. |
| Character | It has a distinctive, torquey boxer engine feel wrapped in a sharp-handling chassis, making it an unconventional but engaging sportbike. |
| Not Ideal For | It's not a good fit for beginners, off-road adventurers, or riders prioritizing plush comfort on long-distance tours. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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