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2003 BMW R 1200CL Overview
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL is a touring motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer engine, a compression ratio of 10.0:1. 2003 BMW R 1200CL delivers 44.5 kW @ 5000 rpm of peak power and 98 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 164.8 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2003 R 1200CL tips the scales at 308 kg, carries a 17.5-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 745 mm and spans a 1641 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2003 BMW R 1200CL spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2003 R 1200CL - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 2003 BMW R 1200CL makes 44.5 kW @ 5000 rpm with 98 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Accessible seat height: At 745 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.
Considerations
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Age-related wear: As with any used R 1200CL, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Low-speed confidence
At 308 kg, the R 1200CL is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
R 1200CL - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2003 BMW R 1200CL, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 1200CL should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any R 1200CL. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
2003 BMW R 1200CL - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL have?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL uses a Two cylinder boxer engine with 1170 cc of displacement. It is air/oil cooled.
What is the top speed of the 2003 BMW R 1200CL?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL has a factory-quoted top speed of 164.8 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL weigh?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL weighs 308 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL make?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL produces 44.5 kW @ 5000 rpm of power and 98 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2003 BMW R 1200CL?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL has a 17.5-litre fuel tank.
Is the 2003 BMW R 1200CL suitable for shorter riders?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL has a seat height of 745 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.
What brakes does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL have?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL uses 2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston calipers at the front and Single ∅285mm disc, 2 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL use?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL runs 100/90-18 front and 170/80-15 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2003 BMW R 1200CL have?
The 2003 BMW R 1200CL is fitted with a 5 Speed transmission.
BMW R 1200CL Spec Evolution
The BMW R 1200CL was produced across 2 model years (2004-2006). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2004 |
2006 |
| Engine Type |
Two cylinder boxer |
Two cylinder boxer, four-stroke |
| Fuel System |
Injection |
Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection/digital engine management: Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 with overrun fuel cut-off, twin spark ignition |
| Gearbox |
5-speed |
6-speed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio |
0.1981 HP/kg |
0.2095 HP/kg |
Key Specifications
Engine
Two cylinder boxer
Power
44.5 kW / 61 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque
98 Nm / 10.0 kgf-m / 72.27 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Top Speed
164.8 km/h / 102.4 mph
Fuel Capacity
17.5 Litres / 4.5 gal
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Full 2003 BMW R 1200CL Specifications
Year
2003 - 04
Colours
Silver, Blue, Brown
Make Model
BMW R 1200CL
Seat Height
745 mm / 29.3 in
Wheelbase
1641 mm / 64.6 in
Height
1435 mm / 56.1 in
Length
2415 mm / 95.0 in
Width
1075 mm / 42.3 in
Dry Weight
289 kg / 637 lbs
Fuel Capacity
17.5 Litres / 4.5 gal
Wet Weight
308 kg / 679 lbs
Stroke
4
Engine Type
Two cylinder boxer
Displacement
1170 cc / 71.4 cu in.
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke
101 x 73mm
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
Cooling System
Air/Oil cooled
Fuel Consumption
5.1 L/100 km / 19.8 km/l / 46.5 US mpg
Fuel Induction
Bosch Motronic MA 2.4 Fuel injection
Ignition
Digital CDI Bosch Electronic
Lubrication
Wet sump
Starter
Electric
Battery Capacity
BMW Mareg, 19.5 Amp/h low maintenance
Clutch
Dry, single plate, hydraulic operated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
1st 2.045 / 2nd 1.600 / 3rd 1.267 / 4th 1.038 / 5th 0.800:1
Transmission / Drive
5 Speed
Frame Type
Three section composite frame consisting of front & rear section, load bearing engine
Suspension - Front
Motorrad Telelever, stanchion ∅35mm, central strut
Suspension - Rear
Die cast aluminium single sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever, WAD strut (travel related damping), spring preload adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of hydraulic handwheel.
Trail
86 mm / 3.4 in
Wheel Travel - Front
145 mm / 5.7 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
110 mm / 4.3 in
Charging System
14 V 50 Amp Alternator (700 W)
Brakes - Front
2 x ∅305mm discs, 4 piston calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single ∅285mm disc, 2 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
100/90-18
Tyres - Rear
170/80-15
Wheels - Front
2.50 x 18, 5-spoke alloy
Wheels - Rear
4.00 x 15, 5-spoke alloy
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