2005 BMW R 1200 CL Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in BMW's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2005 BMW R 1200 CL 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 60.3 HP (44 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 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 51.5 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 CL measures 308 kg (679 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (5.11 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 745 mm (29.3 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,641 mm (64.6 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 17.5-liter (4.6 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.1 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 343 km (213 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 165 km/h (103 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 2003 to 2005, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
51.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.2 HP/kg (5.11 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,000–5,000 rpm
Theoretical Range
~343 km (213 mi)
Engine
Displacement1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Power60.3 HP (44.0 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. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition
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.
