BMW R1200RS: The Complete BMW Motorrad Maintenance Guide

The BMW R1200RT is a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a perfect combination of performance and comfort. To ensure it runs smoothly and lasts long, regular maintenance is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we offer practical advice for maintaining your BMW R1200RT, covering engine oil changes, air filter replacement, and much more. Learn how to optimize your bike's performance through regular check-ups and the use of genuine BMW parts and products. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced mechanic, this guide will support you every step of the way to ensure effective maintenance of your R1200RT. Enjoy safe riding and maximize the pleasure of hitting the road with your BMW.

BMW R1200RT Maintenance Summary Table

To make maintaining your motorcycle easier, here is our summary table of the different tasks and their recommended frequency.

BMW R1200 RT Engine Maintenance: Key Elements

The engine of your R 1200 RT is at the heart of all the bike's power, which is why it is essential to carry out the necessary maintenance tasks.

BMW R 1200 RT Engine Oil Change and Oil Filter Replacement

Changing the engine oil is very important to keep your engine healthy; it is a simple operation that should be carried out regularly.

• Change the engine oil every 10,000 km and replace the oil filter
• For R 1200 RT models from 2004 to 2014 (first and second generation), choose this oil filter and the engine oil BMW Advantec Pro 15W-50
• For the latest R 1200 RT model (from 2013 to 2018), choose this oil filter and the engine oil BMW Advantec Ultimate 5W-40

Replacing the air filter on the BMW R 1200 RT: when should you do it?

The air filter is a key component in the combustion of your R 1200 RT. A clogged filter can reduce your bike's performance or even cause breakdowns.

• Check the condition of the filter every 10,000 km or earlier if performance drops
• Replace the filter cartridge every 20,000 km or sooner using the reference that matches your model
• For the first R 1200 RT model (0368,0388), use this filter
• For the second R 1200 RT model (0430,0440), use this filter
• Finally, for the latest R 1200 RT model (0A03, 0A13), use this filter

Spark plugs for the BMW R 1200 RT

Spark plugs also play a role in combustion and starting the motorcycle. When worn, they can cause failures.

• At the first sign of weak starting and every 20,000 km, inspect the spark plugs
• Replace them every 20,000 to 25,000 km at most, choosing the correct reference for your model
• For the first R 1200 RT, use the NGK DCPR8EKC spark plug, for the second version of the R 1200 RT, use the MAR8B-JDS spark plug and for the latest version of the R 1200 RT, use the NGK LMAR8D-J spark plug

Battery maintenance of the BMW R 1200 RT

As the energy source of your motorcycle, the battery requires attention and maintenance to last over time and must be replaced at wide intervals.

• First version R 1200 RTs are equipped with an AGM battery
• Second version R 1200 RTs are equipped with a 12V 19AH maintenance-free battery
• Latest generation BMW R 1200 RTs are also equipped with an AGM battery
• AGM batteries may need to be recharged when the voltage drops between 12V and 12.5V or every 2 months using the battery charger
• Whatever your battery type, be sure to clean the terminals regularly to prevent corrosion
• The battery should be replaced every 3 to 5 years

BMW R 1200 RT Transmission: Final Drive and Gearbox Maintenance

The R 1200 RT uses a shaft drive, which requires less maintenance than a chain but still needs attention.

• Every 10,000 km, perform a visual inspection of the shaft drive and related components such as seals and boots
• Change the gearbox and transmission oil every 20,000 to 30,000 km
• Choose Synthetik OSP for the first two versions of the bike and Hypoid G3 oil for the latest model

Subject to natural wear, your motorcycle’s clutch should be included in your maintenance schedule to prevent more serious damage. Pay attention to unusual noises from the clutch and slipping during gear shifts. As soon as signs of wear appear, consider replacing the clutch.

Brakes: How to Maintain Them on the BMW R 1200 RT?

Essential to your safety on the road, the brakes should be checked frequently, both the pads and the discs on your BMW R 1200 RT.

Brake Pads: How to Maintain Them on the BMW R 1200 RT

Subject to rapid wear, brake pads should be checked regularly.

• Inspect the pads and their wear indicators every 5,000 km
• If no cracks or early wear are present, replace the pads every 10,000 to 20,000 km depending on condition
• Use genuine BMW Motorrad brake pads for precise and quality braking

The brake pad reference depends on your motorcycle and the model currently fitted. Here’s a table to clarify:

BMW R 1200 RT Brake Discs

Also heavily used, though wearing out more slowly, brake discs should also be replaced regularly.

• Check the condition of the brake discs every 10,000 km and when changing brake pads, be alert to wear and signs of warping
• At the first signs, replace the brake discs to ensure quality braking
• Use BMW brake discs for your motorcycle
• For the first and second R 1200 RT, here are the front discs and the rear disc
• For the latest R 1200 RT, here are the front discs and the rear disc

Consumables: essential oils and fluids for the BMW R 1200 RT

To ensure optimal operation, your motorcycle needs certain fluids and oils. By regularly checking these levels and performing oil changes according to the schedule, you can extend the life of your motorcycle and ensure your safety.

• Brake fluid: replace every 2 years to ensure effective braking
• Fork oil: use type 1 for the first and last model and type 2 for the intermediate version, to be replaced every 2 years
• Radiator antifreeze: replace every 2 to 3 years to prevent corrosion

For all these consumable products, it is highly recommended to use genuine BMW Motorrad parts, as only these are 100% designed for your motorcycle and to meet its specific needs.

Regular maintenance of your BMW R1200RT is crucial to ensure its performance and longevity. By performing frequent inspections and adhering to the recommended maintenance intervals, you prevent premature wear of essential components such as the engine, brakes, and transmission. Using genuine BMW parts and products, like BMW Advantec engine oil and specific air filters, ensures your bike runs at its best. Explore our tips and guides for efficient maintenance, and discover our complete maintenance kits for the R1200RT. By following these recommendations, you'll maximize the safety and riding pleasure of your R1200RT while preserving its value. For more information, visit our website and access a wide range of products and services dedicated to maintaining your motorcycle.