2008 BMW R 1200 S Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in BMW's sport motorcycle lineup, the 2008 BMW R 1200 S utilizes a 1170 cc (71.4 cu in) oil & air-cooled two cylinder boxer, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 120.7 HP (88.1 kW) at 8,250 rpm while maximum torque reaches 112 Nm (82.6 lb-ft) at 6,800 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 103.2 HP per liter and a 1,450 rpm working window between peak torque (6,800 rpm) and peak power (8,250 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 R 1200 S measures 213 kg (470 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.57 HP/kg (1.76 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 830 mm (32.7 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,487 mm (58.5 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.3 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 395 km (245 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's BMW archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 2006 to 2009, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
103.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.57 HP/kg (1.76 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,800–8,250 rpm
Theoretical Range
~395 km (245 mi)
Engine
Displacement1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Engine DetailsTwo cylinder boxer, two-stroke
Power120.7 HP (88.1 kW)) @ 8250 RPM
Torque112.0 Nm (11.4 kgf-m or 82.6 ft.lbs) @ 6800 RPM
Compression12.5:1
Bore x Stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management 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.
