2004 BMW R 1200 C Independence Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Engineered by BMW for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 2004 BMW R 1200 C Independence relies on a 1170 cc (71.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled two cylinder boxer, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 61 HP (44.5 kW) at 5,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 98 Nm (72.3 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 52.1 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,000 rpm) and peak power (5,000 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the R 1200 C Independence measures 239 kg (527 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.26 HP/kg (3.92 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 740 mm (29.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,650 mm (65 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 17.5-liter (4.6 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 168 km/h (104 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2004 to 2005, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
52.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.26 HP/kg (3.92 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–5,000 rpm
Standover Height
740 mm (29.1 in)
Engine
Displacement1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power61.0 HP (44.5 kW)) @ 5000 RPM
Torque98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
CoolingOil & air
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)
Chassis
Frame TypeThree-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine.
Front SuspensionBMW Motorrad Telelever; stanchion diameter 35 mm, central strut
Front Travel144 mm (5.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionDie-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of hydraulic handwheel
Rear Travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase1650 mm (65.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-ZR18
Rear Tyre170/80-ZR15
Front BrakesDouble disc
Front Brake Ø305 mm (12.0 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø285 mm (11.2 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight239.0 kg (526.9 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2552 HP/kg
Seat Height740 mm (29.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest 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.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
