The BMW Motorcycle K1200GT headlight bulb specifications include H7 and H3 sizes for high beam applications, along with H7 and D1R sizes for low beam functions. The replacement chart covers 2003 through 2008 production years with corresponding bulb size data.
The year-by-year compatibility chart below provides a quick reference to verify the correct bulb size for your vehicle.
The H7 bulb is the most prevalent type across the BMW Motorcycle K1200GT specifications, appearing in both high beam and low beam positions for the 2005-2008 model years, as well as the low beam position for 2003-2004. It is a single-filament halogen bulb operating at 12V and 55W, fitted with a PX26d base, and holds ECE approval for Europe and worldwide use, with additional approval in the US and Japan.
The H3 bulb is specified exclusively for the high beam position on the 2003-2004 K1200GT. Like the H7, it is a single-filament halogen bulb rated at 12V and 55W, but it uses a PK22s base rather than the PX26d base of the H7, making the two types physically non-interchangeable despite sharing the same wattage and voltage ratings.
The D1R is a high-intensity discharge bulb rated at 85V and 35W, fitted with a PK32d-3 base and an integral ignitor. Its significantly higher operating voltage relative to the halogen types means it requires a dedicated ballast circuit and is not compatible with standard 12V halogen sockets.
For the 2005-2008 model years, the low beam position accommodates two distinct bulb types depending on the headlamp system installed. Units equipped with halogen capsule headlamps use the H7, while units equipped with HID headlamps use the D1R. These two configurations are not interchangeable, as each relies on a different electrical system and housing design.
The high beam specification changed between the 2004 and 2005 model years. The 2003-2004 K1200GT uses the H3 for the high beam, whereas the 2005-2008 K1200GT uses the H7. The differing base types, PK22s for the H3 and PX26d for the H7, mean a direct substitution between these two years is not possible without a corresponding housing change.
The D1R designation specifically denotes a discharge bulb designed for reflector-type housings, as indicated by the "R" suffix. This distinguishes it from the D1S type, which is intended for projector-style housings. Using a bulb type mismatched to the housing design affects light distribution and optical performance.