2008 BMW K 1200 S Specs & Review

BMW’s K 1200 S is a high-speed, shaft-driven sport machine built for riders who want big-mile stability with serious inline‑four performance. If you’re cross-shopping fast road bikes with real-world usability, the 2008 BMW K 1200 S specs stand out for their power, tech, and signature BMW chassis solutions.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: Liquid-cooled inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves
• Displacement: 1157 cc
• Power: 167 hp @ 10,250 rpm
• Torque: 130 Nm / 95.9 lb-ft @ 8,250 rpm
• Weight (wet): 248 kg / 546.7 lb
• Seat height: 820 mm / 32.3 in

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the K 1200 S is a 1157 cc liquid-cooled inline‑four with a 79 x 59 mm bore and stroke and a high 13.0:1 compression ratio. On paper, 167 hp at 10,250 rpm and 130 Nm at 8,250 rpm put it squarely in the fast-road category. In practice, the strong midrange torque means brisk roll‑on passes on the highway and satisfying drive out of sweepers without constantly chasing the redline.

Fueling is by electronic injection with BMW’s BMS‑K engine management and knock control, letting you run Super Plus 98 RON fuel (with a minimum of 95 RON acceptable). Power is routed through a 6‑speed transmission to a shaft final drive (BMW Paralever), blending performance with low-maintenance practicality. BMW claims a top speed of over 200 km/h, which fits the bike’s long-legged, big‑bore persona without needing to rev its heart out on every ride.

Emissions are handled by a regulated 3‑way catalytic converter (EU3), keeping the big four compliant while maintaining that smooth, refined delivery enthusiasts expect from BMW’s K‑series.

Handling, Comfort & BMW K 1200 S Seat Height

BMW’s unique chassis choices are central to the K 1200 S feel. Up front, the BMW Duolever with a central spring strut brings precision and stability, while out back the Paralever single‑sided swingarm keeps the shaft drive composed under load. Suspension travel is 115 mm at the front and 135 mm at the rear, striking a balance between sport control and road comfort.

Geometry leans toward stability: a 1571 mm (61.8 in) wheelbase, 61° steering head angle, and 119 mm (4.7 in) trail. The result is confidence at speed and a planted front end over broken pavement. The bridge‑type cast aluminium frame features a load‑bearing engine, keeping the whole package stiff without unnecessary bulk in the wrong places.

The BMW K 1200 S seat height is 820 mm (32.3 in). Taller riders will appreciate the spacious perch, while shorter riders may want to check reach at a standstill. As for the BMW K 1200 S weight, at 248 kg (wet) it’s substantial for a sport machine, which you’ll feel during slow-speed maneuvers or when pushing it around the garage. Once moving, the low-slung inline‑four and long wheelbase help the weight disappear, lending impressive composure on fast roads.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious: dual 320 mm front discs with 4‑piston calipers (EVO) paired with Integral ABS (partially integral), plus a rear 265 mm disc with a 2‑piston caliper. This setup offers strong stopping power and confidence in mixed conditions. The 17‑inch wheels (3.50 x 17 front, 6.0 x 17 rear) run 120/70 ZR17 and 190/50 ZR17 rubber for a wide, stable contact patch.

Fuel capacity is 19 L (5.0 US gal) with an approximate 4.0 L reserve, suitable for long stints between stops. Electricals include a 12 V / 14 Ah battery and a robust 580 W alternator to support accessories. The bike’s final drive is BMW’s Paralever shaft, prized for durability and reduced maintenance compared to chains.

Other notable details from the 2008 BMW K 1200 S specs include the claimed wet weight of 248 kg (546.7 lb), and a dry weight of 227.5 kg (501.6 lb), making it a muscular sport platform built for speed with everyday practicality.

Who Is the 2008 BMW K 1200 S For?

This is a bike for experienced riders who crave big inline‑four thrust, rock‑solid stability, and the cleanliness of a shaft drive. It’s ideal for fast highway runs, sweeping backroads, and long day rides where composure and comfort matter as much as outright pace. New riders will likely find the power, size, and weight overwhelming; seasoned enthusiasts, however, will appreciate its breadth of ability and tech-forward chassis.

Torquepedia Verdict

In this BMW K 1200 S review, the headline is balance: huge power and torque, refined fueling, stable geometry, and serious brakes with Integral ABS. The Duolever/Paralever combo delivers a uniquely planted, confidence-inspiring ride at speed. Add in the shaft drive and you get performance without daily maintenance hassles.

The trade-offs are predictable: the BMW K 1200 S weight is noticeable in tight, low-speed scenarios, and the 820 mm seat height may challenge shorter riders. But if you want a swift, sophisticated inline‑four sport machine that eats distance and laughs at fast sweepers, the K 1200 S remains a compelling pick.

FAQ

• Is the 2008 BMW K 1200 S good for beginners?
  Not ideal. With 167 hp, a 248 kg wet weight, and a tall 820 mm seat height, it’s better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2008 BMW K 1200 S?
  820 mm (32.3 in).

• How heavy is the 2008 BMW K 1200 S?
  Wet weight is 248 kg (546.7 lb); dry weight is 227.5 kg (501.6 lb).

• Does the 2008 BMW K 1200 S have ABS?
  Yes. It features Integral ABS (partially integral).

• What are the power and torque figures?
  167 hp @ 10,250 rpm and 130 Nm (95.9 lb‑ft) @ 8,250 rpm.