Cruisers

2005BMW R 1200 C Independence

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The 2005 BMW R 1200 C Independence is a cruiser-style motorcycle built for riders seeking classic American aesthetics with BMW reliability. Its 1170cc boxer engine delivers smooth, torquey performance ideal for relaxed highway cruising and comfortable long-distance touring. Known for its distinctive retro styling and shaft-drive practicality, it appeals to riders valuing tradition over sportiness.

Capacity: 1170.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 239.0 kg
Seat height: 740 mm
Power: 60.3 HP (44.4 kW)

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What’s new for the 2005 BMW R 1200 C Independence

vs the 2004

Spec	2004	2005
Power	61.0 HP (44.9 kW)	60.3 HP (44.4 kW)
Front suspension	BMW Motorrad Telelever; stanchion diameter 35 mm, central strut	BMW Motorrad Telelever
Rear suspension	Die-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load adjustable to continuously variable levels by means of hydraulic handwheel	Die-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever
Rear brakes	Single disc	Double disc

Other years 2004 2005

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding45%

Daily riding55%

Touring60%

Two-up55%

Track10%

Best for: It's built for relaxed, styling-focused boulevard and highway cruising rather than outright speed or sport riding.
Built for: It has a distinctive, torque-driven boxer character with a shaft drive, projecting a laid-back, premium cruiser personality rather than a raw performance one.
Not ideal for: This is not the right bike for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or high top-speed thrills.

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 2005 BMW R 1200 C Independence, 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: 60.3 HP (44.4 kW)
Torque: 98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m)
Engine type: Boxer
Power/weight ratio: 0.2523 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 101.0 x 73.0 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Oil & air
Fuel system: Injection
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Single-disc dry clutch, hydraulically operated

Performance

Top speed: 168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1650 mm
Overall length: 2340 mm
Overall width: 1050 mm
Overall height: 1130 mm
Seat height: 740 mm
Dry weight: 239.0 kg
Wet weight: 259.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.50 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Three-section composite frame consisting of front and rear section, load bearing engine.
Front suspension: BMW Motorrad Telelever
Rear suspension: Die-cast steel single-sided swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Monolever
Front wheel travel: 144 mm
Rear wheel travel: 100 mm
Rake (fork angle): 29.5°
Trail: 86 mm