BMW R 1200 CL 2002 — Specifications

When BMW decides to play cowboy, you get the R 1200 CL: a cruiser built for endless straight lines, designed to challenge Harley-Davidson on its own turf. Released in 2002, the BMW R 1200 CL clearly borrows its styling cues from the Electra Glide, but filters them through Bavarian engineering. An imposing fairing, generous mirrors, and a sculpted windshield with a central cutout that opens up the field of vision and lets you flip up your visor without catching a blast of wind. On paper, the mission is clear: devour smooth tarmac two-up, in regal comfort.

And on that front, the BMW R 1200 CL delivers on its promises. The seat, set at 745 mm, welcomes rider and passenger with rare hospitality. The Telelever front suspension and Paralever rear suspension soak up the road surface without flinching. You settle in, spread out, and ride. The composite frame of cast aluminum and tubular steel carries its 324 kg wet weight with a certain dignity. On the highway, wind protection rivals that of a BMW K 1200 LT or a Honda Goldwing, which says it all. The 17.5-liter tank does limit range somewhat for a touring-oriented machine, though — you'll need to plan your fuel stops.

Where it falls short is when the road starts to twist. The 150/80-16 front tire gives it the turning circle of an ocean liner through a series of bends. The steering lock would put a semi-truck to shame. The BMW R 1200 CL's 1170 cc engine never claimed to be sporty, granted, but even for a cruiser, the lack of agility eventually takes its toll. In the city, low-speed maneuvering demands patience and muscle. That's the price you pay for the imposing stance that's so popular across the Atlantic.

The 1170 cc flat-twin produces 61 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 98 Nm of torque from just 3,000 rpm. Numbers that ooze flexibility, typical of the BMW flat-twin. But to haul over 300 kg, it's just adequate. The engine purrs along, keeps pace, and never refuses the effort, but it lacks punch when you want to accelerate hard. Up against the Twin Cam in a Harley, which is more demonstrative and meatier through the rev range, the boxer comes across as an overly polite gentleman. The five-speed gearbox and shaft drive deliver flawless operation, and the braking — with dual 305 mm front discs squeezed by four-piston calipers — proves reassuring and powerful. BMW knows how to build brakes, and no one can take that away from them.

For anyone eyeing a used BMW R 1200 CL, the 2002 to 2006 model years can be found at prices that have become very reasonable compared to the original list price of 16,100 euros. Reviews on motorcycle forums agree: the build quality is a cut above the American competition, mechanical reliability is reassuring, and riding comfort remains its trump card. On the other hand, dedicated motorcycle accessories are becoming scarce. This Bavarian cruiser is aimed at contemplative tourers who prefer the quietness of a well-mannered boxer to the rumble of a V-twin. A choice of character, not a choice of reason — and that's perhaps what gives it its singular charm on the used market.