BMW K1200LT Buyers Inspection Guide

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A video created by Kirk's Motorrad Shop. Please work at your own risk. We are not responsible for any damage you do.

[@grizzlyjp]

Thank you from Australia. Im travelling 2000km in 5 days to check out a 2008 LT and this video was really helpful. Much appreciated.

[@daubendiek]

Kirk, Your advice on the brake lines was spot on but for a different reason. Even if it isn't leaking, get rid of the rubber lines ASAP. You didn't mention the ABS failures these bikes are known for. When I was bleeding my LT's brake system (after putting Spiegler brake lines on) I was getting a ton of tiny black flakes out with the fluid and one port wouldn't flow at all until I really squeezed the hand lever HARD. The black stuff was from erosion of the inside of the rubber brake lines. If that stuff gets into the tiny passages in your ABS module it will be toast. So by ALL means get rid of them. A complete set of Spiegler's costs about the same as a single hose from BMW.

[@matthatter93]

Any link to find those?

[@mehdimirza8777]

Excellent Explanation good service to Humanity and Riders I always appreciate your vedios Thanks I have 99R1100RT and2001 K1200Lt

[@velocity550]

Great advice. I bought my 2001 LT a couple of years ago and knew it had problems but it was priced accordingly. Thanks to your videos, I have had no hesitation tackling the service issues. The poster is hanging in my garage and I reference it regularly. Keep up the great work.

[@davidkendrick7403]

Oh man, helpful. I'm looking at a K1200LT 2005 now and I'm new to the BMW; so, big help to ask the right questions.

[@living-wellon-less5669]

I am glad I found this channel, I am planning on getting my first LT this year. Been riding since 1965 but only had one BMW 1968 R90. I miss the simpler days when all you had to worry about was a frame, wheels, engine, seat and something to hang on to.

[@beemrdon52]

R90 was from 1974-76

[@nickmayfield6951]

Great vids, I just bought an Lt, these videos are a goldmine of information. Thanks Kirk!

[@theunsbotha2785]

Thanks for that one...need to know where the fusebox are old.

[@WilliamMiller-s1c]

Your the best, wish i found your knowledge before i bought my 2000 1200lt . it has 160k miles now... if i would have been watching you it would have been easier to figure a bmw out....... so different from other bikes in many ways...... My next BMW motorcycle will not be tortured so much from ignorance. Just by riding hard. Thanks for the easily understood, to the point knowledge. Wish i had a dad like you growing up....

[@sentry4944]

Just picked up a 2000 K1200LT in this color. Already loving the bike and I'm glad I found your channel.

[@m.f.m.67]

That bike looks like its never even had a parking lot drop. VERY rare for a bike that heavy with 60,000+ miles.

[@davidhall869]

Looking at one right now,lots of good info.

[@LTVoyager]

I would also check: 1. Rear wheel play check for pivot bearings 2. Fuel quick disconnects for the bad plastic ones 3. Cracks in top case handle. Unfortunately, I got one of the last FIBIB kits to prevent handle breakage.

[@mungerle]

These videos are AWESOME! Just starting to look for some K1200LTs and this is such great information!

[@JHV166]

I have a 2008 Electra Glide Ultra Classic and have been eyeing the BMW K series.. Thank you for this information... Ohhhh DAMNIT! I think I HAVE to get one now!

[@shawnfrawley205]

This video was extremely helpful. Just picked up a 1999 with 14k miles on it. Everything checks, this thing is like brand new.

[@jsum74]

Bought exactly the same bike. had only 23000kms on it. But will go with your advise and change the brake lines. Managed to buy a Don Muddman's armrest brand new. Don must have found a couple somewhere. very happy!

[@onemrporter]

Thanks Kirk been looking at getting a BMW K1200LT or RS. Not sure what model I will end up getting . Going to look at a 2005 LT this weekend. I’m sure I’ll be watching this video again and again. This will be my first BMW. Thank you.

[@dennisgreene7164]

Very, very helpful. I am looking at buying a bike to use every day but also to run down to southern spain from the UK every now and then. K seems to cover all bases. So thanks for the buying tips.

[@christalabi7408]

Thanks for your time and effort putting this video together. Youv'e included must have knowledge when purchasing one of these bikes. I could have made some very expensive mistakes.

[@egbertveer7531]

Great channel for me, buying a 2000 LT (in the Netherlands)!

[@Golfspieler]

Sehr gut erklärt und angenehme ruhige Stimme! 🙏👍🇨🇭

[@davidtremblay6166]

Great video, very helpful! Subscribed to your channel now because I'm looking at a 2005 K1200 LT. Low mileage, very clean, but I'm going to go over it again using the info from your inspection guide (2 pages of notes on things to check!) before we close the deal. Thanks so much!

[@bnol03686]

Did ya get it!?

[@waredneck1977]

THANK YOU SIR!! Going to look at a BMW 2001 K1200LT tomorrow and by miracle I found your videos on these bikes. I had a Honda 2005 1300ST for 2 years but last summer a deer hit me on left side and insurance totaled my bike out. Came across BMW K16's instead of going with Gold Wing. I loved how my Honda looked for tour and sport and saw BMW made somewhat similar design and saw one for sale in my price range from insurance check and have appointment with buyer tomorrow afternoon weather permitting(WA State). Youve taught me so much and now I'll be able to talk the talk and that'll show the Seller I know my "stuff" about the bike :). AWESOME AWESOME video. Saved, liked and SUBCRIBED. I WILL be showing family(they ride Gold Wings 1800's) this exact video for their knowledge. Can the LT's have a trailer hitch added on to pull a motorcycle tent pop up trailer or extra gear trailer like how Gold Wings are able to pull? Figured from your video that you'd be the knowledge Expert to ask. Thank you again.

[@danlachappelle]

Kirk , Thank you for your videos, they helped me to make the transition back! to a BMW after A Transalp , a Triumph Tiger 900 , a K100rs 87' , and back to back Harley Davidson Roadkings a 99' and an 04' : I Purchased a 2006 K1200lt with 17,500 miles , new tires, battery and fresh service, for $5595.00 the day ran long at the dealership so first ride (home ) was 65 miles and temps dropped to 37 deg f. and dark out ! never felt more comfortable with the large adjustable screen and heated grips and seat! You are a wealth of knowledge and a very valuable asset to the BMW community ! Thanks Again , D W. LaChappelle

[@Aret4Euro]

Hey Dan , I found a 2001 w 50k miles for 2800$ is it worth it or should I pass thank u

[@icemanharris8847]

Must have deep pockets to own this bike. No parts available. If breaks have not been bypassed, they are junk get a cheap metric bike preferably Yamaha mfg in 🇺🇸. These bikes are in my opinion are junk. I suggest crushing them into a coffee table.

[@GeraldRisch]

I personally love the video--Thanks Kirk for the great servicing of MY bike. Check out those tires! Used every bit of them.

[@obxlife6158]

Glad I found your channel I just bought an 02 k1200 lt and I am very pleased with it.

[@LeRoyLeRoy1963]

I am looking at a 99, LT for $2900, had 24k miles looks mint but cruise control and drivers volume control don't work , is the price good or should I keep looking for a bike?

[@russellbrown9655]

Excellent info. Looking at a used k1200lt and now a have a check list too.

[@shamoy1000]

Good video. I'm going to do a complete refresh on my LT this winter. Will be using your info. Thanks much.

[@Chiel64]

Hi Kirk, I bought my k1200rs a while ago. While driving I heard something very far away. I had several people look but nobody saw or heard anything. Eventually I replaced the drive chain and the sound was gone. Presumably the chain was oddly stretched. According to BMW, the chain must be replaced every 60000 km. I bought it with 67000 km.

[@MrPhotodoc]

Geeze. I just learned more than I ever thought I already knew. Thanks!

[@ChrisBlows]

Excellent video of the LT well done found it informative and practical

Thanks for your informative and kindly video. I want to buy K 1200 LT and it’s very useful to me.

[@hempthanolusakewlfuel7209]

Great video I worked for BMW barbershop Kygo at one time and that was one of his favorite bikes I’m actually looking at one now living up in the mountains in Colorado I think it would be great

[@ChrisBlows]

Excellent video found it informative and practical of the LT well done

[@vancp2025]

Great work, thinking to do next step, from RT to LT

[@kevinfarrell5778]

Excellent vlog... love those bmw k12lts..that one is stunning...👍👍

[@olethanatos8173]

Thank you for the overview, if you happen to know someone that does the same quality review for the GSA please let me know. I have enjoyed watching your videos.

[@peteliberis1043]

Thanks for the info, I’m looking at one tomorrow that has been dropped, it’s a2004 asking $2700.00 I have a Honda Valkyrie at the moment but I need something with a little better handling and hopefully lighter, if I become an owner tomorrow I’ll be back for the torque chart you were talking about.

[@Archer28M]

My 6 motor is BMW R1100RT. It's in my owner ship for 11 years now. I'm 6,4 and 240lbs. I will love to own L1200LT. But i hawe fear for exspencive maintainance for this bikes. The R1100RT boxser engine and build is crazy reliable. But any one one day i will buy LT.

[@brettallport1250]

Great stuff, thank you very much, all the best from West Oz.

[@johnsxn661]

Im going to look at one today this should allow me to cut their price down a lot 😂

[@rodanderson1922]

I also have a 1999 LT, but thankfully with a very low 17,500 miles on it. I was unaware of the Brake Line issue, which I will look at, and change if it hasn't been done already? I have no complaints with my bike, and if I decide to pgrade, it will be for a later model LT.

[@ababbit7461]

Rear main seal and hydraulic slave cylinder leaks via the "weep hole" under the bike. Big ticket item if they need to be replaced since if they leak, the clutch will become useless.

[@gastramp]

Jesus that back tyre 😂

[@39Banana39]

Good advice. Flawless presentation

[@jukkaheroja1297]

Absolutely great video! Thanks!

[@ArizonaCowboys]

The Big test I would recommend is ride this bike. Low miles is not an indicator. A crappy rider on one of these can toast the clutch in under 1000 miles. Low rev starts are a must higher rpm's will fry it. My first LT i purchased in 2008 was a 1999 with 8600 miles. I did not open it up while testing it. Took it on the road after purchase and the engine rpm was spinning and the bike was not keeping up. Please learn from my mistake. Felt super stupid

[@jaketaylor6301]

For the uninitiated prospective buyer, this is absolutely invaluable content! MANY thanks! And for the same uninitiated prospective buyer, what is "this thing" at the 19:30 mark? Suspension preload?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Yes. it is a preload for the rear.

[@Hunter_Bauss]

Excellent review and video!

[@havardelnarhansen3532]

Very good videos You making, Im looking for an LT Myself!!!

[@franzelfelix5493]

Thank you.

[@waldo7983]

Hey great videos, I just bought a 1999 K1200LT and it has a very noticeable front wheel grinding noise. I suspect it is wheel bearings. But thought I would ask, the guy I bought it from had a new BMW motorcycle and wasn't riding this one for a while. Hoping it just needs some WD40 but really don't think it's that simple. Any suggestions?

[@kirksmotorrad]

brakes or bearings would be my first guess

[@raykirchdorfer5452]

thanks Kirk very informative

[@lwyant767]

Hey Kirk, love your videos. I do all of my own maintenance thanks to your effort in putting out these helpful how-to-presentatiions. Question? Your personal opinion on jpegs or highway pegs. I am 6'4" and need an extension on long rides. Do NOT like the pegs on the safety bar as they are too wide for my me. Mick-o-pegs I am not sure about and wanted to pick your brain. Any suggestions? Thanks. Lee from Denver.

[@LongDistanceMotorcycleFans]

What did you find? I am also 6'4 and live south of Denver. Same question!

[@tmcfinance4804]

I like what you are advocating and I want a chart that you have.

[@kirksmotorrad]

Just click on the ebay link.

[@MassimvsPrimoMeridio]

I want ot get one of those posters

[@moogmike01]

Great job.... also that is the best color bike!

[@micdundee31]

Great info😃thank you. Greatings from danmark

[@kellyw1648]

I just bought an 07 with the floorboards. I don't care them either. They are coming off.

[@8bunker]

thank you super film

[@johanloewenzacharias7342]

I am sorry asking this question but I need help with my k1200lt 2005. I start it and after it warms up it hase some ticking noise. I speed it up and it goes away but after about 3000 rpm it is there again. Could that be a valve lifter or what else?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Please contact me through www.Kirksmotorrad.com and I will help diagnose it for you. If you can please send me a video or an audio file of the noise on both sides of the bike.

[@HolgerT]

Fantastic! Do you happen to have this poster for the K1200GT as well?

[@kirksmotorrad]

The LT and brick engine GT's are virtually the same across the board when it comes to torque specs.

[@larrycardwell3695]

Can you put a xenon headlight in a 2001 model?

[@vincentfarruggio1721]

I love the videos however I’ve been searching for a long time why my reverse isn’t working right. It goes and then it stops a few feet.

[@bennymartinez5589]

i just bought a 2002 bmw k1200LT from a guy and got it home, i went out and drove it for a short drive and when i got back home the bike was smoking under the seat and rear tire??? i opened up the side bag and pulled the seat up and it was leaking fluid ....not sure why or where it was coming from i was not able to trouble shoot any... do you have any ideas on what it might be from past videos or past issues with other bikes???

[@albertonatividad8665]

Thank you very much!

[@mscsaradnik]

Great video.

[@masterofbikes2747]

Good job

[@dannyvan5792]

enginne oil level , oil contsumtion

[@denisrailey777]

Dedicated.As always great vid.

[@IbrahimYesil]

Great information... thank you..

[@bernardgorry9399]

Bonjour je suis un nouvel acheteur k1200lt ,2009 mon rêve...Question ..comment changer mes poignée chauffante...

[@luissoler5328]

Hi Kirk, thanks for the video. I am planning to buy a 2000 BMW K1200LT with 87K miles. Since this video was in 2017; should I look for anything else? My main question: I love how this bike looks. For $2500 should I take it or should I wait???

[@ronaldbrower9836]

You are the best!! I have never gotten so much from a video on motorcycles. I am picking up a 2001 model next month. What are your favorite; replacement brake lines? How about the front suspension? What is your go-to company? Hey, I agree totally about the use of the cruiser floorboards. Not on my bike, not on my watch! Take care sir. Ronald K. Brower. USN, ret.

[@kirksmotorrad]

Get your lines right from Speigler.com. That is what I do and recommend. Also watch my video on choosing new springs. Springs depend on budget and how much you are going to ride.

[@ronaldbrower9836]

illinoisBMWriders thank you kindly

[@pedrobaez8696]

I like the price for your inspection Guide just don't want to pay 10.50 for shipping of a piece of paper.

[@kirksmotorrad]

I dont make money from the shipping

[@roberthoekman7497]

Hello Kirk, I am just the proud owner of a beautiful 2008 LT, I have noticed that the spaekers in the top case do not work, I have looked at a number of things but are unable to solve them, Who has tips for me? The videos are super clear

[@kirksmotorrad]

The radio probably is bad. It happens a lot

[@tiempoespacial6996]

Hi, very good video ! Question : what would be a good driver backrest model?

[@ridinround123]

Kirk, can you expand on the O2 sensor comment? I have a 2000 LT and I'm only getting about 25 mpg with a lot of soot on the tailpipe.

[@kirksmotorrad]

Here you go. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHXNd2eQa72KsJI

[@allencharles5281]

Hey, I've been watching your videos and I'am considering buying one. I was wondering if there are any videos on installing a driver backrest

[@davidknox5717]

Hi Beemerman here; common issue i've heard is what to do with the broken latch for top case on 2005 k1200lt?

[@frankc57]

Hi Kirk, thank you for this! using this and taking notes for my 2003 future purchase of an LT. I wanted to know, at 19:27 you flipped up a device that turned. What was that and why do you bring it up?

[@kirksmotorrad]

That is the suspension adjuster to make it hard/soft. Sorry I didnt explain it.

[@rdp317]

I need some floorboards for my 2005. Any ideas?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Floorboards or highway pegs? Contact me at kirksmotorrad.com

[@ryandorrheim705]

Wow! I recently purchased a 2005 K1200 LT and am very glad I watched this - learned a ton. Minnesota is throwing me for a loop though - I have the VIN and found the Engine Number ... but where do I find the "Frame Number?"

[@14wntr]

under the right heel area on the frame. It is the VIN

[@ryandorrheim705]

@@14wntr - Thank you!

[@michaeljoesmith3977]

I've found a 1999 with about 66K on the clock for $2,600 which sounds too good to be true. haven't looked at it yet,just Craig's List pictures. You went over a lot of little things to check but I didn't hear any comments about the engine,transmission and over all reliability of this particular model.

[@kirksmotorrad]

The 99-01 are my personal favorite years. Most need updating though

[@michaeljoesmith3977]

@@kirksmotorrad Updating?

[@kirksmotorrad]

I heard youtube did some huge update

[@richardortiz197]

Hi Kirk. Good video lots of good info. Considering buying 1200 l t . ? I'm 5 ft. 7inch. Do you think I could flat foot this bike. I currently ride a kawa voyager 1200. I try to most of my own maintenance. Looking forward to looking at more of your videos. Thanks

[@glenwallace6314]

Question: I have a 2009 in great shape with under 20 000 miles. What is a fair asking price? Love the bike but too many toys. I have a 650 Sertaio that I find is my choice for short rides. Love the LT for rides as I live in one of the most scenic places in North America.

[@ewo55]

Hello, I have a 2003 model BMW K1200LT. I had an accident about 2 years ago with my motorcycle and I still need some parts like full electricity wiring, airbox, hydraulic hose, left fan, screw set and antenna. I wondered do you know where can i find these parts? I am living in Turkey and these motorcycles are not very widespread in my country therefore I searched through eBay Germany and, luckily, I was able to find most of the parts I have been looking for except for the ones I have listed above. Do you know any places in America or in any other country from where I can buy these parts? Thank you so much for your attention! Kindest regards...

[@SuperPain31]

I am looking at a 2000 model 1200 LT to purchase from a private seller. The right tip over wing is cracked. It appears it may have fallen over as opposed to the rider dumping it while in motion. The frame behind is in good condition. How much would it cost to replace that wing ?

[@1marttie]

Can discuss lt braking systems?

[@joseesousa2663]

Any problems with smoke at start and continue smoking

[@kirksmotorrad]

all the time. If you park it on the side stand it will smoke a lot.

[@esmiley3]

Great video!

[@stevesinclair40]

Hi ya, Ive got 2005 lt, Its been udercover for about 4 moths now.It Today I started it and let run on tickover for at least 10 minutes or so. Ithe noticed that it began to leak coolant from the expansion tank cap,Not boiling tho it had reached the top of that expansion tank . The fans did cut in after it had began to leak.??Is this normal for one of these?

[@sinisaferencic]

Where can I buy arm rest for passanger like on this video?

[@Richibald1]

Hey Kirk looking at a 2002 LT and I'm picking it up in a few days with 78,000 miles on it. It's cheap because it needs a new clutch. Can you advise what I should be paying for new clutch installed? With nearly 80,000 miles I see shocks need replacing, any other notables to look out for besides shocks, brake lines? Grrrreat! Video, thank you very much for your time much appreciated, Rich.

[@kirksmotorrad]

It all depends on who does it and how many parts are needed. Contact me on my contact page at kirksmotorrad.com and we can go over it.

[@djay9220]

Do you have the poster for the K1600gt. Would love one.

[@tuvideoloco6551]

great video! What's is the diferent between this year and a 2003. Is 24,000 miles a lot for a 2003

[@kirksmotorrad]

They changed the style of the ABS but the function is the same. Minor style changes. 24k is a very young bike

[@craigtaylor8801]

Can u help me I bought a 2009 k1200lt, it had a break issue when I bought it. Just took it to the dealship and they told me it was the brake pump. 2600 dollars. I bought the bike for 4000. Is there anywhere I can get cheaper parts

[@kirksmotorrad]

Contact me through kirksmotorrad.com and we will discuss what you need

[@billpumarejo699]

What should you really stay away from if it has this problem?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Too high of a price tag and needing a lot of work

[@gerardolopez4422]

I am about to buy a 2003 but I am already losing my desire, it seems they are very complicated🤦🏻‍♂️

[@kirksmotorrad]

They are great bikes once you get them sorted out.

[@dalmotomazela750]

Would you help me? bmw k1200 lt wasting radiator fluid and when it turns on it leaks smoke through the exhaust. It's normal?

[@kirksmotorrad]

If you store it on the side stand it will smoke when you start it. As to the antifreeze, that is likely a leak somewhere. Contact me through my contact page on kirksmotorrad.com and we will discuss it

[@felixcat4346]

Never, never just change any parts unless they are worn out, especially brake line like BMW or otherwise.