BMW R 1200 R Classic - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 BMW R 1200 R Classic appeals to riders seeking a versatile, middleweight roadster with retro styling and genuine all-around capability. Known for its reliable air-cooled boxer engine, composed handling, and comfortable upright riding position, it excels as both a daily commuter and weekend tour machine. The bike's balanced weight distribution and manageable 800mm seat height make it accessible to a broad range of riders.

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General information

CategoryNaked bike
Year2011
ModelBMW R 1200 R Classic
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemClosed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3
Emission detailsClosed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3
Greenhouse gases95.1 CO
Fuel consumption4.10 litres/100 km (24.4 km/l or 57.37 mpg)
ClutchWet, single plate, cable operated
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemOil & air
Lubrication systemDry sump
IgnitionDigital CDI
Fuel controlDOHC
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic intake pipe injection/BMS-K digital engine management with overrun fuel cut-off, twin-spark ignition
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke101.0 x 73.0 mm (4.0 x 2.9 inches)
Compression12.0:1
Torque115.00 Nm (11.7 kgf-m or 84.8 ft.lbs) @ 6000
Power110.00
Engine typeTwo cylinder boxer, four-stroke
Capacity:1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsCast aluminium
Rear brakes diameter265 mm (10.4 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel140 mm (5.5 inches)
Rear suspensionCast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspensionBMW Motorrad Telelever
Trail119 mm (4.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)27.1°
Frame typeSteel, Trellis frame. Two-section frame consisting of front and rear sections with load-bearing engine-gearbox unit

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity3.00 litres (0.79 gallons)
Fuel capacity18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)
Wheelbase1,495 mm (58.9 inches)
Overall width872 mm (34.3 inches)
Overall length2,145 mm (84.4 inches)
Overall height1,285 mm (50.6 inches)
Seat height800 mm (31.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.5556 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc223.0 kg (491.6 pounds)
Dry weight198.0 kg (436.5 pounds)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsBlack

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

87 hp
Peak Power
3.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track40%
City75%
Cornering78%
Daily Riding85%
Touring78%
Passenger75%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits riders with at least some prior experience who want a torquey, confidence-inspiring naked roadster rather than an outright beginner machine.
PurposeIt's built as a versatile allround roadster, equally happy commuting, carving backroads, or covering long distances with a bit of luggage.
Rider FitThe 800mm seat height and moderate 223kg wet weight make it manageable for riders of average height and build without being intimidating.
CharacterThe boxer twin delivers strong low-to-mid range torque with characterful engine feel, shaft-driven reliability, and telelever-based stability rather than razor-sharp aggression.
Not Ideal ForIt's not the right choice for riders seeking off-road capability or outright supersport-level speed and track focus.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 800mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 BMW R 1200 R Classic, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (2)

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Feb 2021 · 21V060000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.

Risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Dec 2013 · 13V617000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 model year R-model motorcycles, model year 2005-2012 K-model motorcycles, model year 2010-2011 S 1000 model motorcycles, and model year 2006-2010 HP2 motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, the fuel pump flange (and the auxiliary fuel pump flange if equipped) could develop cracks and leak fuel.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will either reinforce the fuel pump flange or replace the pump, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 16, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at [email protected].

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

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