09 GS1200 Adventure Topbox locks

[Richard M]

Update from my dealer.
They have discovered that nearly any key that will fit into my pannier locks will open them
As someone mentioned in an earlier post, this is due to the appropriate part of my key being quite straight. The solution is going to be the same as for Fatbob’s bike - a new, better-shaped key and locks to match for the panniers. Not the most ideal result, but I think it’s the best I will get with BMW’s uninterested attitude.
Credit to Will at Riders in Cardiff. He has been very helpful, as usual. A top bloke

 

[Frankh]

got to my dealer today

After starting this thread, got to my dealer today for an appointment to "fix" my locks(2 in particular which undo with ease using the insert) on inspection they found out I already have the short inserts!!! oh dear, can't help you then. I asked them to try two new locks and code to my key, one now seems better, the topbox however still opens with the insert, but I cannot relock it with the insert. They are raising it with BMW for me. If the lock can't be corrected I think a full refund at list price for all panniers/topbox/locks and frame and then get some 3rd party boxes that are secure, I wonder if BMW will go for that?? Me thinks an email to Watchdog if not. anyone else contacted watchdog?

 

[Richard M]

After starting this thread, got to my dealer today for an appointment to "fix" my locks(2 in particular which undo with ease using the insert) on inspection they found out I already have the short inserts!!! oh dear, can't help you then. I asked them to try two new locks and code to my key, one now seems better, the topbox however still opens with the insert, but I cannot relock it with the insert. They are raising it with BMW for me. If the lock can't be corrected I think a full refund at list price for all panniers/topbox/locks and frame and then get some 3rd party boxes that are secure, I wonder if BMW will go for that?? Me thinks an email to Watchdog if not. anyone else contacted watchdog?

I suspect that the best offer you will get is new locks, coded to a new key. I thought about creating a big fuss over the issue, but have decided it’s not worth the fight. I can live with 2 keys.
I don't want to spoil my enjoyment of such a great bike

By the way, thanks for bringing this problem to my attention in the first place.

 

[WindyChuffer]

From page 24 of the 2009 accessories catalogue available here on bmw-motorrad website


"These robust, all-new panniers with plain aluminium surfaces have
a capacity of 44 litres on the right-hand side and 38 litres on the left.
Waterproof and securely lockable, they can carry up to 10 kilograms of
luggage, and feature stainless steel lashing eyelets, so that extra items
can easily be attached to the outside. The top box offers an additional
32 litres (5 kilograms) of carrying capacity."

'nuff said.

Write to BMW, quoting P24 of said catalogue and point out that if lock can be opened by a blunt flat edge, it ain't secure. Point out that if their personal home front door could be opened like this, they wouldn't accept it...and likely, neither would your home contents insurer !!

Have any of you lot having problems with getting BMW to come up with a satisfactory response to this issue quoted my post to them, and got them to read the text from the said page in the catalogue ???

 

[Richard M]

Have any of you lot having problems with getting BMW to come up with a satisfactory response to this issue quoted my post to them, and got them to read the text from the said page in the catalogue ???

They say that mine are now secure, which they are. This is just not possible with my bike key.

 

[Blues Boy]

Hi WindyChuffer,
I sent my letter of complaint off on Wednesday, including the page 24 statement. Early days yet for a reply. Will keep you all informed of any response.

 

[Frankh]

Mine are all secure now, at least they don't open with the dust caps. Dealer had my spare key and ordered up more locks and catches, coded them until they found two that worked and then fitted them to my bike. A good result in the end.

 

[guk]

Sorry if I'm running a bit late on this one. Just spent 6 weeks in crossing Canada and on day 3 I discovered that the lock securing (or not in this case) the offside pannier had come undone. This happens with 3 of the 8 locks. But I've discovered that it happens when you remove the key without turning it to the fully locked position - yes, it is possible. On the faulty locks, if I ensure that the key is fully turned and then remove it - I cannot open it, but if I try to remove the key as I'm turning it, I can then unlock it with the bung. Has anyone else tried this? My bike's a 09 GSA - Is that why they are giving away the panniers when you buy a new bike?