2002 BMW R 1200 C Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Built around BMW's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2002 BMW R 1200 C features a 1170 cc (71.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled two cylinder boxer, four-stroke configuration. 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 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 measures 256 kg (564 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.2 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. The 17-liter (4.5 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 4 indexed model years from 1998 to 2003, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
52.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.24 HP/kg (4.2 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
Power61.0 HP (44.5 kW)) @ 5000 RPM
Torque98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3000 RPM
Bore x Stroke101.0 x 70.0 mm (4.0 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
CoolingOil & air
Transmission
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)
Chassis
Front SuspensionTelelever
Front Travel144 mm (5.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionCentral suspension strut
Rear Travel100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-ZR18
Rear Tyre170/80-ZR17
Front BrakesDouble disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight256.0 kg (564.4 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2383 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.
