K 1200 RS

1998 BMW K 1200 RS Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around BMW's sport touring motorcycle platform, the 1998 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) at 8,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 117 Nm (86.3 lb-ft) at 6,750 rpm, 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 and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (6,750 rpm) and peak power (8,750 rpm), 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.