The K1200GT (Gran Turismo) Review

Based on the success of the K1200RS, a new model, the K1200GT has been introduced into the K-Series model range to further enhance the touring qualities of BMW’s four-cylinder motorcycles. The K1200GT complements a model range, which currently boasts the sport-oriented K1200RS and the luxury-oriented K1200LT.

The K1200GT (Gran Turismo) has been specifically designed to retain the dynamic qualities of the K1200RS, while at the same time providing a greater level of comfort, as well as wind and weather protection.

Bodywork

The restyled front end dominates the K1200GT’s visual effect. Thanks to the reshaped, less sharply raked windshield and the additional fairing elements in the handlebar and knee areas, its styling is distinctly angled towards the touring category, in contrast to the more sporty K1200RS, but without sacrificing the typically individual BMW design features in its appearance.

Comfort and wind & weather protection

Long-distance touring is only fully enjoyable when the rider and pillion do not suffer the unpleasantness of fatigue and exposure to the elements. The new features of the K1200GT are designed to achieve exactly that, including:

  • Handlebar: The new raised extra-comfortable handlebar design provides easier control of the motorcycle.
  • Seating position: An ergonomically shaped heated dual seat, together with the re-positioned foot pegs, provides a more relaxed and comfortable seated position for rider and pillion, particularly on long journeys.
  • Hand guards: New upper fairing elements are a major factor in the K1200GT’s new appearance. The additional hand guards greatly improve wind and weather protection. In conjunction with the flasher housings (with white glass as standard) integrated directly into the fairing, air turbulence is noticeably reduced in the rider’s hand area.
  • Leg guards: To improve the K1200GT’s suitability as a tourer, new fairing elements have also been provided in the leg area. These leg guards are made of soft plastic and provide excellent protection against the wind, rain and cold air.
  • The new windshield with electric position adjustment: As on the RT and LT models, the windshield can be raised and lowered by 50 millimetres at the touch of a button, even when the motorcycle is actually being ridden. In a matter of seconds, every rider can find a position that suits his or her stature and riding style. The windshield can be varied from sporty, more steeply raked to a more upright position suitable for relaxed touring.

Brakes

The BMW Integral ABS, the most innovative ABS braking system for motorcycles, is standard on the K1200GT in the partly integral version. BMW Motorrad was the first manufacturer to equip its sports tourers (the K1200RS) as standard with ABS, and in keeping with the touring character of the K1200GT this partly integral system activates the front and rear brakes simultaneously when activating the hand brake.

At the same time, this innovative braking system enables active reaction to dynamic wheel load changes that occur during braking, thus enabling optimal braking power every time, and a very short braking distance. The foot pedal operates the rear ABS brakes in the conventional manner.

Other Standard equipment

  • Heated grips: Combined with the heated dual seat this feature ensures a comfortable ride under the coldest of conditions.
  • Cruise Control: Cruise control is an elegant means of memorizing and maintaining a chosen road speed and accelerating or slowing down smoothly. The system is de-activated when the brake pedal, clutch lever or throttle twist grip are operated.
  • Luggage rack, case holders and cases: As a model with the emphasis on touring, the K1200GT has a highly effective load-carrying system as standard equipment. A rigid luggage rack can be used to secure a luggage roll safely. The case holders are well-proven units from the BMW Motorrad programme and do not clash with the K1200GT’s overall appearance when the cases are removed. The cases themselves provide an excellent amount of storage space (56 litres, with one holding 25 litres and the other 31 litres) and have convenient same-key locks and lids painted in the same colour as the motorcycle, so that the visual quality of the K1200GT is enhanced.
  • Rear and brake light failure warning lamp: This warning lamp on the telltale and warning lamp panel is a visible feature for the customer. The rear and brake lights are continuously monitored. If the rear light fails, its place is taken by the brake light, which is suitably dimmed to obtain the correct light intensity. When the brakes are applied, the brake light then operates at its full normal intensity.

Colours

  • Pacific blue metallic
  • Grey-green metallic