2009 BMW K 1200 LT Specs & Review

BMW’s flagship luxury tourer of its era, the K 1200 LT is built to devour distance in supreme comfort while keeping the rider fresh and in control. If you’re cross-shopping big touring machines, the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT specs read like a long-haul wish list with a smooth inline‑four, shaft drive, and a deep feature set. Here’s our BMW K 1200 LT review focused on real-world riding.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1,171 cc
• Engine: Inline‑4, four‑stroke, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
• Power: 85 kW (116 hp) @ 8,000 rpm
• Torque: 120 Nm @ 5,250 rpm
• BMW K 1200 LT weight: 387 kg (unladen, road‑ready)
• BMW K 1200 LT seat height: 770 / 800 mm

Engine & Performance

The 1,171 cc inline‑four is the heart of the K 1200 LT’s effortless touring character. With 85 kW (116 hp) peaking at 8,000 rpm and a stout 120 Nm delivered at 5,250 rpm, the bike pulls cleanly from low revs and surges ahead with smooth, predictable thrust—ideal for two‑up touring, quick highway merges, and relaxed roll‑on passing. A 10.8:1 compression ratio, 70.5 x 75.0 mm bore and stroke, and liquid cooling contribute to a refined, durable powerplant designed for high-mile comfort.

Fueling is handled by electronic intake pipe injection (BMW Motronic MA 2.4) with overrun fuel cut‑off, keeping throttle response crisp and deceleration smooth. Emissions are cleaned via a closed‑loop 3‑way catalytic converter to EU‑3 standards. Out on the autobahn—or any big highway—the K 1200 LT sails past legal limits with a top speed of over 200 km/h, yet it’s just as content loping along in the fat part of the torque curve.

A 5‑speed transmission with an overdrive top gear keeps revs relaxed at cruise, and the shaft (cardan) final drive with a 2.75:1 ratio emphasizes low‑maintenance ownership and clean operation. The included reverse gear and electric reversing aid are real-world saviors when maneuvering a fully loaded bike in tight spaces.

Handling, Comfort & BMW K 1200 LT Seat Height

Long days in the saddle are where the LT shines. BMW’s Telelever front suspension (102 mm travel) limits brake dive and maintains composure on undulating highways, while the Paralever rear (130 mm travel) keeps the shaft drive’s reactions in check under acceleration and deceleration. The chassis geometry—63.0° steering head angle, 117 mm trail, and a 1,627 mm wheelbase—prioritizes straight‑line stability and a calm, planted feel at speed.

The BMW K 1200 LT seat height offers two positions—770 or 800 mm—so riders can pick what suits their inseam and preferred ergonomics. At parking‑lot speeds, the LT’s physical presence is undeniable: the BMW K 1200 LT weight is 387 kg (unladen, road‑ready). That mass helps deliver exceptional stability on the open road but demands respect when U‑turning or backing into a space. Thankfully, the reverse function and the electro‑hydraulic center stand take much of the strain out of garage shuffles and roadside stops.

Tire sizes—120/70 ZR17 up front and 160/70 ZR17 at the rear—strike a sensible balance between grip, longevity, and ride quality. Physically, the LT is substantial (2,502 x 1,080 x 1,395 mm), which translates to generous weather protection and room to move, especially when paired with the electrically adjustable windshield.

Equipment & Features

Braking duties are handled by a confidence‑inspiring setup: dual 320 mm front discs with 4‑piston fixed calipers and a single 285 mm rear disc with a 4‑piston fixed caliper, all managed by BMW Integral ABS (fully integral). The system enhances stability and reduces stopping distances on mixed surfaces—perfect for a big tourer.

Touring range and convenience are excellent thanks to a 24 L fuel capacity (with approximately 4 L reserve). Standard equipment is a highlight reel of long‑ride luxuries: an electro‑hydraulic center stand, electrically adjustable windshield, cruise control, heated grips and seats, an audio system, central locking, and a chrome package. Electrical capacity is ample with an 840 W three‑phase alternator and a 12 V / 19 Ah maintenance‑free battery, making it accessory‑friendly for lights, comms, and more.

Who Is the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT For?

The K 1200 LT is tailor‑made for experienced riders who value comfort, equipment, and low‑maintenance long‑distance capability. If your riding revolves around interstate miles, two‑up weekends, or continent‑crossing trips, the LT’s smooth inline‑four, shaft drive, and deep features list will make you smile. Newer riders may find the size and weight intimidating; the reverse gear and low seat‑height option help, but the LT is best appreciated by those confident handling a full‑size touring motorcycle.

Torquepedia Verdict

If you came for a luxury tourer with real touring DNA, the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT delivers. Its 1,171 cc inline‑four is smooth and tractable, the chassis stays composed over distance, and the feature set—ABS, electric reverse, adjustable windshield, heated contact points, cruise control, and more—underscores its mission as a comfortable, high‑capability mile‑eater.

The trade‑off is mass: at 387 kg unladen, low‑speed maneuvers require care. Yet BMW’s thoughtful aids (reverse, electro‑hydraulic center stand) and the relaxed overdrive gearing make the overall package compelling. For riders prioritizing comfort, stability, and amenities, the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT specs stack up strongly in the luxury‑touring class.

FAQ

• Is the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT good for beginners?
  Generally, no. With an unladen, road‑ready weight of 387 kg and substantial dimensions, it’s best suited to experienced riders comfortable handling a full‑size touring motorcycle.

• What is the seat height of the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT?
  The BMW K 1200 LT seat height is 770 or 800 mm, allowing riders to choose the position that fits them best.

• How heavy is the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT?
  The BMW K 1200 LT weight is 387 kg (unladen, road‑ready).

• What is the top speed of the 2009 BMW K 1200 LT?
  The claimed top speed is over 200 km/h.