2008 BMW K 1200 GT Specs & Review

BMW’s K 1200 GT is a sport-touring heavy-hitter aimed at riders who want Autobahn-grade pace with long-haul comfort. This BMW K 1200 GT review focuses on performance, handling, and equipment that matter to real-world riders, using the official 2008 BMW K 1200 GT specs to guide the comparison.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Type: Sport-touring
• Engine: Liquid-cooled transverse inline-4, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
• Displacement: 1,157 cc
• Power: 152 hp (112 kW) @ 9,500 rpm
• Torque: 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) @ 7,750 rpm
• Transmission/Final drive: Constant-mesh 6-speed; shaft (Paralever), 2.82:1
• Wet weight: 282 kg / 621.7 lb (fully fueled, road-ready; without panniers)
• Seat height: 820/840 mm (32.3/33.1 in); optional low seat 800/820 mm (31.5/32.3 in)
• Fuel capacity: 24 L / 6.3 US gal (approx. 4 L reserve)
• Top speed: Over 200 km/h (124+ mph)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the K 1200 GT is a 1,157 cc transverse inline-four with a high 13.0:1 compression ratio and electronic fuel injection (BMS-K with knock control). On paper, the 152 hp at 9,500 rpm and 130 Nm at 7,750 rpm promise true “grand tourer” thrust. On the road, that translates to effortless highway passes, strong roll-on from midrange revs, and a willing top-end surge for spirited runs—exactly what you want when covering big distances quickly.

The powertrain is supported by a hydraulically operated multi-plate wet clutch and a constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox feeding a low-maintenance shaft final drive (Paralever, 2.82:1). The gearing keeps the inline-4 in its sweet spot for brisk acceleration while maintaining smooth, low-vibration cruising. With a listed top speed over 200 km/h (124+ mph), the K 1200 GT is every bit the cross-continental tool its badge implies. An ample 24 L (6.3 US gal) fuel capacity, and a robust 945 W generator for accessories, further reinforce its long-distance mandate.

Handling, Comfort & BMW K 1200 GT Seat Height

BMW’s chassis tech defines the GT’s road manners. A beam cast aluminum frame uses the engine as a stressed member for stiffness, while the BMW Duolever front end (central strut) delivers precise steering and 115 mm (4.5 in) of travel. At the rear, a single-sided swingarm with BMW Paralever provides 135 mm (5.3 in) of travel. Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) was optional, letting riders tailor damping on the fly.

Geometry favors stability: a 1,572 mm (61.9 in) wheelbase, 60.8° rake, and 120 mm (4.7 in) trail keep the bike planted at speed and composed in sweepers. Tyre sizes—120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear on cast aluminum wheels (3.5 x 17 in front, 5.5 x 17 in rear)—balance agility with high-speed grip.

BMW K 1200 GT seat height is 820/840 mm (32.3/33.1 in) with an optional low seat at 800/820 mm (31.5/32.3 in). That dual-height setup helps accommodate a wide range of inseams; taller riders can enjoy legroom, while shorter riders gain confidence with the low seat option. The BMW K 1200 GT weight is a factor in tight spaces—officially 282 kg (621.7 lb) wet and 249 kg (548.9 lb) dry—so low-speed maneuvering benefits from deliberate inputs. Out on the open road, however, that mass translates to a planted, fatigue-reducing ride. Width is 965 mm (38.0 in) including mirrors, or 990 mm (39.0 in) including cases, and overall height with the windscreen down is 1,438 mm (56.6 in).

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is tour-ready: dual 320 mm floating front discs with 4-piston fixed calipers and a 294 mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral) was standard, offering strong, confidence-inspiring stops in varied weather.

Electronics and conveniences reflect BMW’s premium sport-touring approach. Period options included ESA, ASC, tire pressure control (TPC/RDC), heated grips and seats, cruise control, and a xenon headlight. The BMS-K engine management with knock control ensures consistent performance and efficiency, while a regulated 3-way catalytic converter meets EU-3 emissions. Powering it all is a 12 V / 19 Ah battery and a high-output 945 W generator, providing headroom for heated gear and night riding.

Who Is the 2008 BMW K 1200 GT For?

This is a machine for experienced riders who want a fast, refined sport-tourer that can chew miles two-up and fully loaded without breaking a sweat. Commuters with longer stretches will appreciate the smooth shaft drive and relaxed highway manners, while weekend sport-touring riders will enjoy the chassis stability and inline-4 punch. Absolute beginners will find the combination of 152 hp and substantial mass less approachable than lighter, lower-powered alternatives.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2008 BMW K 1200 GT brings serious pace, sophisticated chassis tech, and long-haul comfort together in a cohesive package. Highlights include the strong 1,157 cc inline-4, rock-solid stability from the Duolever/Paralever setup, and a comprehensive feature set with ABS and available electronics like ESA and ASC.

Its main compromises are size and mass—most obvious during parking-lot maneuvers—and a seat height that may push shorter riders toward the optional low seat. If your priorities are high-speed composure, distance-ready ergonomics, and low-maintenance shaft drive, the K 1200 GT remains a compelling pick among big-bore sport-tourers.

FAQ

• Is the 2008 BMW K 1200 GT good for beginners?

  • It’s a powerful, heavy sport-tourer (152 hp and 282 kg wet), so it’s better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2008 BMW K 1200 GT?

  • Standard BMW K 1200 GT seat height is 820/840 mm (32.3/33.1 in), with an optional low seat of 800/820 mm (31.5/32.3 in).

• How heavy is the 2008 BMW K 1200 GT?

  • BMW K 1200 GT weight is 282 kg (621.7 lb) wet and 249 kg (548.9 lb) dry.

• What are the power and torque figures?

  • 152 hp (112 kW) at 9,500 rpm and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) at 7,750 rpm.

• Does the 2008 BMW K 1200 GT have ABS?

  • Yes. It features BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral).