2006 BMW K 1200LT SE from Botswana

Summary:

Superb! Perfect for long trips

Faults:

ABS system faults with brake booster.

The reverse gear module occasionally fails, due to wear or relay issues, preventing the reverse function from responding properly.

Neutral sensors, the side stand, and older alarm systems can cause ignition cut-outs.

The difficulty of accessing the engine and components drives up labor costs for servicing.

General Comments:

It's hard to find fault with the BMW K1200LT when it comes to carrying two people and all their luggage on a three-week motorcycle trip. The BMW K1200LT boasts every imaginable comfort, even though most are optional extras, and its performance, handling, and braking are more than acceptable for such a heavy motorcycle.

For most riders simply looking for a luxury touring motorcycle, the BMW K1200LT will seem more than adequate; in fact, one could argue it has a sporty character for a bike that weighs almost as much as a light van. However, when carrying a passenger and a full load of luggage, the BMW K1200LT demands care and respect on winding roads; ultimately, the suspension is quite soft, which—combined with the bike's limited ground clearance—restricts its cornering ability.

The engine is very smooth and delivers the extra power needed at high speeds, giving the rider a genuine sense of speed on the highway. Furthermore, it is a fairly economical motorcycle compared to its six-cylinder rivals.

Build quality and the riding experience of the BMW K1200LT are excellent. Problems can arise occasionally, and the bike is equipped with a large number of components that can fail. Overall, however, the BMW K1200LT does not seem any more or less reliable than other similar bikes.

The equipment is outstanding; it offers excellent weather protection, the EVO brakes are impressive, and the motorcycle's hard luggage is also of high quality. It also features a reverse gear and a sophisticated electro-hydraulic center stand. However, extras such as the GPS navigator, heated grips, CD changer, and many other touring accessories are just that—extras.

A great bike for touring, but too expensive when it comes to maintenance and spare parts. Then again, that’s to be expected with a BMW.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th July, 2026

2005 BMW K 1200LT SE from United States of America

Summary:

Excellent, never tire of traveling and going out with the bike

Faults:

I can't find any flaws in this bike; it's one of the most reliable motorcycles BMW has ever made.

I'd only say its heavy weight, which makes maneuvering at low speeds and while stopped difficult.

Service and maintenance are expensive, with service intervals every 6,000 miles and valve clearance checks at 12,000 miles.

The amount of plastic can make maintenance tasks, such as changing the air filter, frustrating and time-consuming, requiring care to avoid breaking panels.

General Comments:

The BMW K 1200 LT is a very comfortable and reliable touring motorcycle, although it requires some maintenance, such as ABS and brake system maintenance, which can be costly if the modulator fails.

It stands out for its excellent ride comfort, powerful engine, and low center of gravity, making it easy to handle despite its weight. However, it requires experience to operate it properly when stationary, or due to the difficulty of removing plastic parts for maintenance.

Mine is one of the latest models. In my opinion, it's a BMW masterpiece in terms of robust mechanics, refinement, and luxurious finishes unlike anything you've ever seen... and, above all, build quality.

Nothing is perfect, but I wouldn't say it's a particularly problematic model in any way.

Its strong point is certainly its sublime comfort, especially for the passenger, and it lacks a bit in terms of cargo capacity. If you're a little nervous, you'll miss a bit more power, but in return, you get unparalleled finesse...

On the other hand, it's a big bike, and as such, it weighs a lot, but both its electric kickstand and reverse gear will make you smile... and once you get the hang of it, it's surprising.

The luxury details are still remarkable today: central locking from the remote, ground lighting, courtesy lights on the dashboard and top case (plus mirror), and also upholstered inside; super comfortable genuine leather seats, stereo with rear speakers, Xenon, etc... then there are the "usual" cruise control, heated grips and seats, BC, electric screen and navigator.

I think it's the perfect motorcycle for touring, that's what it was designed for. It has everything. The worst thing is the weight when stopped, but if you get the hang of it, you'll master it perfectly.

It has never given me any mechanical problems and I have only had to pay for the corresponding periodic inspections every 6000 miles.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th October, 2025