BMW K1200LT Buyers Inspection Guide 

Thank you from Australia. Im travelling 2000km in 5 days to check out a 2008 LT and this video was really helpful. Much appreciated.

Kirk, Your advice on the brake lines was spot on but for a different reason. Even if it isn't leaking, get rid of the rubber lines ASAP. You didn't mention the ABS failures these bikes are known for. When I was bleeding my LT's brake system (after putting Spiegler brake lines on) I was getting a ton of tiny black flakes out with the fluid and one port wouldn't flow at all until I really squeezed the hand lever HARD. The black stuff was from erosion of the inside of the rubber brake lines. If that stuff gets into the tiny passages in your ABS module it will be toast. So by ALL means get rid of them. A complete set of Spiegler's costs about the same as a single hose from BMW.

Excellent Explanation good service to Humanity and Riders I always appreciate your vedios Thanks I have 99R1100RT and2001 K1200Lt

That bike looks like its never even had a parking lot drop. VERY rare for a bike that heavy with 60,000+ miles.

Great advice. I bought my 2001 LT a couple of years ago and knew it had problems but it was priced accordingly. Thanks to your videos, I have had no hesitation tackling the service issues. The poster is hanging in my garage and I reference it regularly. Keep up the great work.

Your the best, wish i found your knowledge before i bought my 2000 1200lt . it has 160k miles now... if i would have been watching you it would have been easier to figure a bmw out....... so different from other bikes in many ways...... My next BMW motorcycle will not be tortured so much from ignorance. Just by riding hard. Thanks for the easily understood, to the point knowledge. Wish i had a dad like you growing up....

Great vids, I just bought an Lt, these videos are a goldmine of information. Thanks Kirk!

Oh man, helpful. I'm looking at a K1200LT 2005 now and I'm new to the BMW; so, big help to ask the right questions.

I am glad I found this channel, I am planning on getting my first LT this year. Been riding since 1965 but only had one BMW 1968 R90. I miss the simpler days when all you had to worry about was a frame, wheels, engine, seat and something to hang on to.

I would also check: 1. Rear wheel play check for pivot bearings 2. Fuel quick disconnects for the bad plastic ones 3. Cracks in top case handle. Unfortunately, I got one of the last FIBIB kits to prevent handle breakage.

These videos are AWESOME! Just starting to look for some K1200LTs and this is such great information!

Looking at one right now,lots of good info.

Just picked up a 2000 K1200LT in this color. Already loving the bike and I'm glad I found your channel.

This video was extremely helpful. Just picked up a 1999 with 14k miles on it. Everything checks, this thing is like brand new.

I have a 2008 Electra Glide Ultra Classic and have been eyeing the BMW K series.. Thank you for this information... Ohhhh DAMNIT! I think I HAVE to get one now!

Great channel for me, buying a 2000 LT (in the Netherlands)!

Thanks Kirk been looking at getting a BMW K1200LT or RS. Not sure what model I will end up getting . Going to look at a 2005 LT this weekend. I’m sure I’ll be watching this video again and again. This will be my first BMW. Thank you.

Thanks for your time and effort putting this video together. Youv'e included must have knowledge when purchasing one of these bikes. I could have made some very expensive mistakes.

Bought exactly the same bike. had only 23000kms on it. But will go with your advise and change the brake lines. Managed to buy a Don Muddman's armrest brand new. Don must have found a couple somewhere. very happy!

Sehr gut erklärt und angenehme ruhige Stimme! 🙏👍🇨🇭

Great video, very helpful! Subscribed to your channel now because I'm looking at a 2005 K1200 LT. Low mileage, very clean, but I'm going to go over it again using the info from your inspection guide (2 pages of notes on things to check!) before we close the deal. Thanks so much!

Very, very helpful. I am looking at buying a bike to use every day but also to run down to southern spain from the UK every now and then. K seems to cover all bases. So thanks for the buying tips.

THANK YOU SIR!! Going to look at a BMW 2001 K1200LT tomorrow and by miracle I found your videos on these bikes. I had a Honda 2005 1300ST for 2 years but last summer a deer hit me on left side and insurance totaled my bike out. Came across BMW K16's instead of going with Gold Wing. I loved how my Honda looked for tour and sport and saw BMW made somewhat similar design and saw one for sale in my price range from insurance check and have appointment with buyer tomorrow afternoon weather permitting(WA State). Youve taught me so much and now I'll be able to talk the talk and that'll show the Seller I know my "stuff" about the bike :). AWESOME AWESOME video. Saved, liked and SUBCRIBED. I WILL be showing family(they ride Gold Wings 1800's) this exact video for their knowledge. Can the LT's have a trailer hitch added on to pull a motorcycle tent pop up trailer or extra gear trailer like how Gold Wings are able to pull? Figured from your video that you'd be the knowledge Expert to ask. Thank you again.

Excellent video of the LT well done found it informative and practical

I personally love the video--Thanks Kirk for the great servicing of MY bike. Check out those tires! Used every bit of them.

Kirk , Thank you for your videos, they helped me to make the transition back! to a BMW after A Transalp , a Triumph Tiger 900 , a K100rs 87' , and back to back Harley Davidson Roadkings a 99' and an 04' : I Purchased a 2006 K1200lt with 17,500 miles , new tires, battery and fresh service, for $5595.00 the day ran long at the dealership so first ride (home ) was 65 miles and temps dropped to 37 deg f. and dark out ! never felt more comfortable with the large adjustable screen and heated grips and seat! You are a wealth of knowledge and a very valuable asset to the BMW community ! Thanks Again , D W. LaChappelle

Thanks for your informative and kindly video. I want to buy K 1200 LT and it’s very useful to me.

Glad I found your channel I just bought an 02 k1200 lt and I am very pleased with it.

Geeze. I just learned more than I ever thought I already knew. Thanks!

Excellent video found it informative and practical of the LT well done

Excellent info. Looking at a used k1200lt and now a have a check list too.

Good video. I'm going to do a complete refresh on my LT this winter. Will be using your info. Thanks much.

Hi Kirk, I bought my k1200rs a while ago. While driving I heard something very far away. I had several people look but nobody saw or heard anything. Eventually I replaced the drive chain and the sound was gone. Presumably the chain was oddly stretched. According to BMW, the chain must be replaced every 60000 km. I bought it with 67000 km.

Great video I worked for BMW barbershop Kygo at one time and that was one of his favorite bikes I’m actually looking at one now living up in the mountains in Colorado I think it would be great

I wish I saw your videos before buying a used 2001 1200lt. Im no mechanic so now I am at a loss. Suspect main seal and clutch, and or the final drive. Ive had it one day and now Im waiting on the title to be sent so I can post it for sale.

My 6 motor is BMW R1100RT. It's in my owner ship for 11 years now. I'm 6,4 and 240lbs. I will love to own L1200LT. But i hawe fear for exspencive maintainance for this bikes. The R1100RT boxser engine and build is crazy reliable. But any one one day i will buy LT.

Excellent vlog... love those bmw k12lts..that one is stunning...👍👍

Im going to look at one today this should allow me to cut their price down a lot 😂

For the uninitiated prospective buyer, this is absolutely invaluable content! MANY thanks! And for the same uninitiated prospective buyer, what is "this thing" at the 19:30 mark? Suspension preload?

Great work, thinking to do next step, from RT to LT

Great stuff, thank you very much, all the best from West Oz.

Thank you for the overview, if you happen to know someone that does the same quality review for the GSA please let me know. I have enjoyed watching your videos.

Thanks for the info, I’m looking at one tomorrow that has been dropped, it’s a2004 asking $2700.00 I have a Honda Valkyrie at the moment but I need something with a little better handling and hopefully lighter, if I become an owner tomorrow I’ll be back for the torque chart you were talking about.

Rear main seal and hydraulic slave cylinder leaks via the "weep hole" under the bike. Big ticket item if they need to be replaced since if they leak, the clutch will become useless.

I also have a 1999 LT, but thankfully with a very low 17,500 miles on it. I was unaware of the Brake Line issue, which I will look at, and change if it hasn't been done already? I have no complaints with my bike, and if I decide to pgrade, it will be for a later model LT.

The Big test I would recommend is ride this bike. Low miles is not an indicator. A crappy rider on one of these can toast the clutch in under 1000 miles. Low rev starts are a must higher rpm's will fry it. My first LT i purchased in 2008 was a 1999 with 8600 miles. I did not open it up while testing it. Took it on the road after purchase and the engine rpm was spinning and the bike was not keeping up. Please learn from my mistake. Felt super stupid

Good advice. Flawless presentation

Thank you.

Very good videos You making, Im looking for an LT Myself!!!

Absolutely great video! Thanks!

Jesus that back tyre 😂

thank you super film

Excellent review and video!

Great job.... also that is the best color bike!

I just bought an 07 with the floorboards. I don't care them either. They are coming off.

Fantastic! Do you happen to have this poster for the K1200GT as well?

thanks Kirk very informative

I like what you are advocating and I want a chart that you have.

Great info😃thank you. Greatings from danmark

Hey Kirk, love your videos. I do all of my own maintenance thanks to your effort in putting out these helpful how-to-presentatiions. Question? Your personal opinion on jpegs or highway pegs. I am 6'4" and need an extension on long rides. Do NOT like the pegs on the safety bar as they are too wide for my me. Mick-o-pegs I am not sure about and wanted to pick your brain. Any suggestions? Thanks. Lee from Denver.

Thank you very much!

Good job

Hey great videos, I just bought a 1999 K1200LT and it has a very noticeable front wheel grinding noise. I suspect it is wheel bearings. But thought I would ask, the guy I bought it from had a new BMW motorcycle and wasn't riding this one for a while. Hoping it just needs some WD40 but really don't think it's that simple. Any suggestions?

Great video.

I want ot get one of those posters

I like the price for your inspection Guide just don't want to pay 10.50 for shipping of a piece of paper.

You are the best!! I have never gotten so much from a video on motorcycles. I am picking up a 2001 model next month. What are your favorite; replacement brake lines? How about the front suspension? What is your go-to company? Hey, I agree totally about the use of the cruiser floorboards. Not on my bike, not on my watch! Take care sir. Ronald K. Brower. USN, ret.

Wow! I recently purchased a 2005 K1200 LT and am very glad I watched this - learned a ton. Minnesota is throwing me for a loop though - I have the VIN and found the Engine Number ... but where do I find the "Frame Number?"

Great information... thank you..

I am sorry asking this question but I need help with my k1200lt 2005. I start it and after it warms up it hase some ticking noise. I speed it up and it goes away but after about 3000 rpm it is there again. Could that be a valve lifter or what else?

I love the videos however I’ve been searching for a long time why my reverse isn’t working right. It goes and then it stops a few feet.

I've found a 1999 with about 66K on the clock for $2,600 which sounds too good to be true. haven't looked at it yet,just Craig's List pictures. You went over a lot of little things to check but I didn't hear any comments about the engine,transmission and over all reliability of this particular model.

Dedicated.As always great vid.

i just bought a 2002 bmw k1200LT from a guy and got it home, i went out and drove it for a short drive and when i got back home the bike was smoking under the seat and rear tire??? i opened up the side bag and pulled the seat up and it was leaking fluid ....not sure why or where it was coming from i was not able to trouble shoot any... do you have any ideas on what it might be from past videos or past issues with other bikes???

Hi Kirk, thanks for the video. I am planning to buy a 2000 BMW K1200LT with 87K miles. Since this video was in 2017; should I look for anything else? My main question: I love how this bike looks. For $2500 should I take it or should I wait???

Hey, I've been watching your videos and I'am considering buying one. I was wondering if there are any videos on installing a driver backrest

Hi Kirk, thank you for this! using this and taking notes for my 2003 future purchase of an LT. I wanted to know, at 19:27 you flipped up a device that turned. What was that and why do you bring it up?

Anyone considering buying one of these motorcycles. Don’t. The poorly designed front end on these motorcycles makes them fall over when you stop. On a conventional front fork that we’re all used to, the energy from braking goes into the fork springs, the front end compresses, the front end rebounds, you’ve completed the stop. On this heavy motorcycle with this front end design, the energy does not go into the fork spring. The energy has nowhere to go, and the weight fights you because it has nowhere to go. The awkward set back handlebars, much like that of a Rototiller, makes the machine even more awkward to try to hold it up once the weight starts getting away from you.If you have the handlebars turned just a few degrees, you better have strong legs, because that weight fights you instead of going into the fork springs. I tried to get used to one of these machines for three years, could not do it.. I had a Yamaha venture royale for 138,000 miles, 16 years, never even came close to dropping it. After I sold my BMW K 1200 LT. I bought another Yamaha venture which I had for 48,000 miles and never dropped it. The windshields on these motorcycles from the factory are very distorted, which is a problem because you have no option but to look through them The rear drive gear set on these machines has a nasty habit of going bad. When I checked with my dealer, he said that only happens to machines that people overload and pull trailers. That’s not true. It’s actually the reason I sold my BMW, because I did not want to have my wife on the back and have the rear wheel locked up. I have had 2 transmission lockups during my 700,000+ miles of being behind bars. There’s nothing you can do with that rear wheel locks up except hope for the best, and I was not going to risk my life and my wife’s life on a machine that’s known for rear drive Failures. I wanted to show off my brand new beautiful k1200lt motorcycle at a gathering 80 miles away which usually drew about 4 to 5000 machines. I pulled in, parked my machine on the side stand, and went socializing. When it was time to go home, I started the machine and white oil smoke poured out of the exhaust. This is normal.So unless you use the center stand all the time, get used to it. By the way, when your machine falls over, or should I say when it gets away from you, and falls over, the mirror gets damaged, they pop right off, $492 apiece.. I know this because I impacted a deer at 70 miles an hour, and both mirrors went straight to China.. no tethers on the mirrors. They could’ve done that very easily the way Honda did on the Honda pacific coast. They both have the same mirror set up, only Honda installed small cables. My machine had a security system that would set itself after a short amount of time when you would turn the machine off. Example, I would pull into a gas station, shut the machine off, fill the tank, when I would go to leave, I would have to dig into my pocket for the security system controller to deactivate the system so the machine would start. Pain in the butt The ABS electric assisted brakes are very powerful, but they have no feel at low speed’s. They are Grabee and abrupt which complicates trying to keep the machine uprite with that poorly designed front end. Actually makes you look like a beginner, and feel like one.Which is probably part of the reason everyone drops their BMW K 1200 LT. I had to not use the front brake at lo speeds the opposite of my habit since 1968 for me, at lower speeds. It’s hard to unlearn an instinctive habit after decades, especially with that much weight.I had to change my riding habits and use the rear brake in parking lot speeds. But on the BMW K 1200 LT, when you use the rear brake at low speed’s, it sounds exactly like someone has the disc on a laythe cutting the surface of the disc to refinish it. The grinding noise gets people’s attention & sounds horrible. That’s the only way I can describe the sound. I searched the Internet and found that that was very common. But there is an easy fix the dealer said. Just buy an aftermarket disc and pads and the noise will go away. $732. The grinding noise was another embarrassment besides the oil smoke, and when I would try to use those brakes at low speed‘s it look like the Keystone cops we’re driving the motorcycle, and if you use the rear brake instead of the front, you would turn heads with the noise from that rear disc grinding.. These are beautiful machines, they ride on the highway effortlessly. The seats are great, the heated grips are wonderful, the heated seat is great, it’s just everything else that makes the machine a lemon. My advice is don’t even think about buying one of these machines. Buy a gold wing, a yamaha venture,a chief, buy a Moto Guzzi..Don’t buy one of these out of production BMW K 1200 LT’s. Too many flaws,

Hi Kirk. Good video lots of good info. Considering buying 1200 l t . ? I'm 5 ft. 7inch. Do you think I could flat foot this bike. I currently ride a kawa voyager 1200. I try to most of my own maintenance. Looking forward to looking at more of your videos. Thanks

Great video!

Can you put a xenon headlight in a 2001 model?

Hello Kirk, I am just the proud owner of a beautiful 2008 LT, I have noticed that the spaekers in the top case do not work, I have looked at a number of things but are unable to solve them, Who has tips for me? The videos are super clear

Never, never just change any parts unless they are worn out, especially brake line like BMW or otherwise.

I am looking at purchasing a 2003 LT. There's a bit of oil around the rear drive. It might be the brake lines you were mentioning. The radio is not working but you mentioned it was crap anyway. He wants very little for it and it seems to go pretty good with 70k. I guess I'll try to take the plunge it seemed to run very well with maybe a little clutch slippage in in higher gears. I appreciate your information.

Hello, I have a 2003 model BMW K1200LT. I had an accident about 2 years ago with my motorcycle and I still need some parts like full electricity wiring, airbox, hydraulic hose, left fan, screw set and antenna. I wondered do you know where can i find these parts? I am living in Turkey and these motorcycles are not very widespread in my country therefore I searched through eBay Germany and, luckily, I was able to find most of the parts I have been looking for except for the ones I have listed above. Do you know any places in America or in any other country from where I can buy these parts? Thank you so much for your attention! Kindest regards...

Hey Kirk looking at a 2002 LT and I'm picking it up in a few days with 78,000 miles on it. It's cheap because it needs a new clutch. Can you advise what I should be paying for new clutch installed? With nearly 80,000 miles I see shocks need replacing, any other notables to look out for besides shocks, brake lines? Grrrreat! Video, thank you very much for your time much appreciated, Rich.

Kirk, can you expand on the O2 sensor comment? I have a 2000 LT and I'm only getting about 25 mpg with a lot of soot on the tailpipe.

Hi, very good video ! Question : what would be a good driver backrest model?

Hi Beemerman here; common issue i've heard is what to do with the broken latch for top case on 2005 k1200lt?

Question: I have a 2009 in great shape with under 20 000 miles. What is a fair asking price? Love the bike but too many toys. I have a 650 Sertaio that I find is my choice for short rides. Love the LT for rides as I live in one of the most scenic places in North America.

enginne oil level , oil contsumtion

I am looking at a 2000 model 1200 LT to purchase from a private seller. The right tip over wing is cracked. It appears it may have fallen over as opposed to the rider dumping it while in motion. The frame behind is in good condition. How much would it cost to replace that wing ?

Can u help me I bought a 2009 k1200lt, it had a break issue when I bought it. Just took it to the dealship and they told me it was the brake pump. 2600 dollars. I bought the bike for 4000. Is there anywhere I can get cheaper parts

Do you have the poster for the K1600gt. Would love one.

I was looking at a nice condition used LT but after watching this vid I would never ever purchase a late model LT or BMW anything.

great video! What's is the diferent between this year and a 2003. Is 24,000 miles a lot for a 2003

Bonjour je suis un nouvel acheteur k1200lt ,2009 mon rêve...Question ..comment changer mes poignée chauffante...

Thanks for the great video I have an option to purchase a pristine 2008 LT bought new and the stored in a garage, has 6000 KMS (about 4000 miles, started every week, has had oil changed annually and BMW service at 5000 KMS otherwise as new, what should I look out for and it this a good or bad idea given it has hardly moved? very grateful for your opinions.

I need some floorboards for my 2005. Any ideas?

Can discuss lt braking systems?