2008 BMW R 1200ST Specifications

Name: 2008 BMW R 1200ST
Brand: BMW

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2008 BMW R 1200ST Overview

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST is a sport touring motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Two cylinder boxer engine running SOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.0:1. The bore and stroke measures 101 x 73 mm. 2008 BMW R 1200ST delivers 115 of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2008 R 1200ST tips the scales at 204 kg, carries a 16-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1,495 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2008 BMW R 1200ST spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2008 R 1200ST - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.

Considerations

Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.

Owner Experiences & Common Issues

Throttle response and fuelling

The fuel injection on the 2008 BMW R 1200ST is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.

Valve clearance checks

SOHC engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.

R 1200ST - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2008 BMW R 1200ST, 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 1200ST 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 1200ST. 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.

Fuel system care

The R 1200ST's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used R 1200ST. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.

2008 BMW R 1200ST - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2008 BMW R 1200ST have?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST uses a Two cylinder boxer engine with 1170 cc of displacement.

How much does the 2008 BMW R 1200ST weigh?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST weighs 204 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 2008 BMW R 1200ST make?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST produces 115 of torque.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2008 BMW R 1200ST?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST has a 16-litre fuel tank.

Is the 2008 BMW R 1200ST suitable for shorter riders?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST has a seat height of 820 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.

What brakes does the 2008 BMW R 1200ST have?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST uses Double disc. ABS at the front and Single disc. ABS at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2008 BMW R 1200ST use?

The 2008 BMW R 1200ST runs 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

BMW R 1200ST Spec Evolution

The BMW R 1200ST was produced across 4 model years (2005-2008). 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	2005	2006	2007	2008
Wet Weight	229 kg / 504.8 lbs	229 kg / 504.8 lbs	229 kg / 504.8 lbs	204.0 kg / 449.7 lbs
Dry Weight	205 kg / 451.9 lbs	205 kg / 451.9 lbs	205 kg / 451.9 lbs	182 kg / 401.2 lbs
Engine Type	Two cylinder boxer	Twin	Two cylinder boxer	Two cylinder boxer
Seat Height	826 mm - 806 mm / 32.5 in - 31.7 in780 mm / 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.4 in (special equipment low seat bench)	826 mm - 806 mm / 32.5 in - 31.7 in780 mm / 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.4 in (special equipment low seat bench)	826 mm - 806 mm / 32.5 in - 31.7 in780 mm / 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.4 in (special equipment low seat bench)	820 mm / 32.3 in.
Fuel Capacity	21 Liters / 5.5 US gal	21 Liters / 5.5 US gal	21 Liters / 5.5 US gal	16.00 litres / 4.23 gallons
Stroke	4	4	4	2
Frame Type	Three-section frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine-gearbox unit	Three-section frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine-gearbox unit	Three-section frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine-gearbox unit	Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit
Wheelbase	1495 mm / 59.1 in	1495 mm / 59.1 in	1495 mm / 59.1 in	1,495 mm / 58.9 in.