2009 BMW K 1300 S Specs & Review

BMW’s K 1300 S blends hypersport power with long-legged stability and everyday refinement. It’s a shaft-driven, inline-four missile built for riders who want superbike pace without sacrificing comfort or tech. In this BMW K 1300 S review, we break down the official 2009 BMW K 1300 S specs and how they translate to the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1,293 cc
• Rated output: 129 kW (175 hp) @ 9,250 rpm
• Max torque: 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) @ 8,250 rpm
• Engine: Water-cooled 4-stroke inline-four, DOHC, 16 valves, dry-sump lubrication
• Transmission / Final drive: Dog-shift 6-speed / Shaft (final drive ratio 2.82)
• BMW K 1300 S seat height: 820 mm (32.3 in) standard; 790 mm (31.1 in) low seat
• BMW K 1300 S weight (wet): 254 kg (560 lb)
• Top speed: 200+ km/h (124+ mph)

Engine & Performance

The 1,293 cc DOHC inline-four is the beating heart of the K 1300 S, delivering a stout 129 kW (175 hp) at 9,250 rpm and 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 8,250 rpm. That means instant, turbine-like pull from low revs and relentless surge in the midrange—ideal for decisive overtakes and fast, flowing back roads. BMW’s electronic intake pipe injection with BMS-K digital engine management and a knock sensor keeps fueling clean and responsive, while the closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter meets EU-3 emissions.

In the city, the smooth dog-shift 6-speed gearbox and broad torque curve make the big K tractable and easy to short-shift. On the highway, the shaft final drive and tall gearing let the engine lope along with minimal fuss, and there’s effortless roll-on thrust for passing. Real-world range is helped by frugal numbers: 4.7 L/100 km at 90 km/h and 5.3 L/100 km at 120 km/h, fed from a 19 L tank with an approximate 4.0 L reserve. If you need to cover distance quickly, the K 1300 S obliges—its top speed is 200+ km/h (124+ mph).

Handling, Comfort & BMW K 1300 S Seat Height

An aluminium bridge frame with the engine as a load-bearing member sets a stiff, stable foundation. Up front, BMW Motorrad Duolever suspension with a central spring strut gives precise steering feedback and composure under brakes. At the rear, a cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever teams with a central spring strut and lever system, plus hydraulic preload and rebound adjustment. Suspension travel is 115 mm at the front and 135 mm at the rear, balancing control with comfort.

Geometry is built for stability: a 1,585 mm wheelbase, 60.4° steering head angle, and 104.4 mm of trail. The 3.50 x 17 front rim wears a 120/70 ZR 17 tire, while the 6.00 x 17 rear carries a 190/55 ZR 17—classic sport-touring rubber that supports fast cornering and strong drive out of bends.

Regarding ergonomics, the BMW K 1300 S seat height is 820 mm (32.3 in) as standard, with a 790 mm (31.1 in) low seat available. Taller riders will appreciate the roomy stance, and the lower option gives shorter riders more confidence at stops. The BMW K 1300 S weight is 254 kg (560 lb) wet (228 kg dry), which you feel during low-speed maneuvers, but the balanced chassis and predictable geometry help once rolling.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious sportbike kit: twin 320 mm floating front discs with 4-piston fixed calipers and a single 265 mm rear disc with a 2-piston floating caliper. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (semi-integral) is standard, providing confidence in all conditions. An electronic immobiliser is also standard.

Useful factory options include ESA II electronic suspension adjustment, ASC (traction aid), HP Gearshift Assistant, and Tire Pressure Monitor. Wheels are cast aluminium. Electricals are robust, with a 580 W three-phase alternator and a 12 V / 14 Ah maintenance-free battery. The fuel system is modern and efficient, and the exhaust features a closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter meeting EU-3 standards.

Who Is the 2009 BMW K 1300 S For?

This is a big-bore, high-output sport-tourer best suited to experienced riders. It’s perfect for fast highway work, sweeping back-road weekends, and even long commutes where stability and overtaking power matter. Newer riders may find the combination of 175 hp and the BMW K 1300 S weight a bit much, but for seasoned motorcyclists, the K 1300 S offers a rare blend of speed, refinement, and low-maintenance shaft-drive practicality.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2009 BMW K 1300 S specs read like a wish list: a 1,293 cc inline-four with 129 kW (175 hp), 140 Nm of torque, and a top-shelf chassis with Duolever/Paralever suspension. Add powerful brakes with standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, a shaft final drive, and optional ESA II and ASC, and you have a mile-eating missile with real-world usability.

Downsides? Mass at parking-lot speeds and a seat height that can be tall for some riders. Still, with the low seat option and its stable geometry, the K 1300 S remains a compelling choice for riders who prioritize high-speed composure, effortless power, and premium engineering over ultralight flickability.

FAQ

• Is the 2009 BMW K 1300 S good for beginners?

  • It’s not ideal for beginners due to its 129 kW (175 hp) output and 254 kg wet weight. It suits experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2009 BMW K 1300 S?

  • 820 mm (32.3 in) standard, with a 790 mm (31.1 in) low seat available.

• How heavy is the 2009 BMW K 1300 S?

  • Wet weight is 254 kg (560 lb); dry weight is 228 kg (503 lb).

• What are the power and torque figures?

  • 129 kW (175 hp) at 9,250 rpm and 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) at 8,250 rpm.

• Does the 2009 BMW K 1300 S have ABS?

  • Yes. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (semi-integral) is standard, paired with 320 mm twin front discs and a 265 mm rear disc.