2003BMW R 1200 C

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The 2003 BMW R 1200 C is a heavyweight cruiser built for riders seeking classic style with modern reliability. Its air-cooled 1170cc boxer twin delivers smooth, manageable power ideal for relaxed highway cruising and urban riding. Known for its low seat height and traditional aesthetic, this machine appeals to cruiser enthusiasts valuing comfort and BMW engineering.

Capacity: 1170.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 256.0 kg
Seat height: 740 mm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 5000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2003 BMW R 1200 C

vs the 2002

Spec	2002	2003
Torque	98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs)	97.6 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.0 ft.lbs)
Top speed	168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)	not listed
Fuel capacity	17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)	17.50 litres (4.62 US gallons)

Other years 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring62%

Two-up60%

Track10%

Best for: Designed for laid-back boulevard cruising and gentle long-distance touring rather than speed or sport riding.
Built for: A distinctive boxer-engined cruiser that trades performance for character, torque-driven ease, and classic BMW mechanical charm.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking sharp handling, off-road capability, or high-speed sport performance.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 740mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2003 BMW R 1200 C, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1170.0 ccm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 5000 RPM
Torque: 97.6 Nm (10.0 kgf-m)
Engine type: Boxer
Power/weight ratio: 0.2383 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 101.0 x 73.0 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Oil_air
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1650 mm
Seat height: 740 mm
Dry weight: 256.0 kg
Wet weight: 268.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.50 litres
Reserve fuel capacity: 4.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 144 mm
Rear wheel travel: 100 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Dual disc, ABS
Front brakes diameter: 305 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc, ABS
Rear brakes diameter: 285 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 100/90-ZR18
Rear tyre: 170/80-ZR17

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1998	1999	2001	2002	2003
Capacity	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Dry weight	239.0 kg (526.9 pounds)	—	—	256.0 kg (564.4 pounds)	256.0 kg (564.4 pounds)
Seat height	740 mm (29.1 inches)	740 mm (29.1 inches)	740 mm (29.1 inches)	740 mm (29.1 inches)	740 mm (29.1 inches)
Fuel capacity	—	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.50 litres (4.62 gallons)