1997 BMW K 1200 RS Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in BMW's sport touring motorcycle lineup, the 1997 BMW K 1200 RS utilizes a 1171 cc (71.5 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line four, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 130 HP (94.9 kW) while maximum torque reaches 117 Nm (86.3 lb-ft), transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 111 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the K 1200 RS measures 264 kg (582 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.49 HP/kg (2.03 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 770 mm (30.3 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance.
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 9 indexed model years from 1997 to 2005, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
111 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.49 HP/kg (2.03 kg/HP)
Standover Height
770 mm (30.3 in)
Engine
Displacement1171.0 ccm (71.45 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power130.0 HP (94.9 kW))
Torque117.0 Nm (11.9 kgf-m or 86.3 ft.lbs)
Valves/Cylinder4
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed250.0 km/h (155.3 mph)
Wheels & Brakes
Front BrakesDual disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight264.0 kg (582.0 pounds)
Power/Weight0.4924 HP/kg
Seat Height770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Alt. Seat Height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
