12gs gearbox problems surfacing in USA

[TerryM]

Having had a total gearbox failure at 1100+ miles some weeks ago I was relieved that few other problems were posted.

But recently on AdvRider lots of problems are surfacing with 1/2 gear selection. And that is where my problems began before total jam.

Anyone who has selection problems may be well advised to insist that their dealer investigate and perhaps replace the whole box as was done in my case.

As usual the lubrication is all mob are out on this one, must be the new religion.

I realise that cases such as my one may seem an extreme on which to base your approach to a none receptive dealer. So do feel free to contact me for back up details.

 

[shuck raider]

I realise that cases such as my one may seem an extreme on which to base your approach to a none receptive dealer

So, how did our local dealer handle it, Terry? Must say, I have found them to adopt a no-quibble approach to the few litle niggles I had with my 1150GS

 

[Dinger]

OK you have my attention. Are any details available for this?
The reason I ask is the when my bike is cold (for the first few upchanges from 1-2) it's an absolute pig to change up. I mean heaving on the pedal.
After this it's perfect. Does this match the problem?

 

[TerryM]

Re: Re: 12gs gearbox problems surfacing in USA

So, how did our local dealer handle it, Terry? Must say, I have found them to adopt a no-quibble approach to the few litle niggles I had with my 1150GS

Absolutely first class service by Charles Hurst, it was not my intention to suggest otherwise.

Merely that my 'box failure may be a poor basis for others who have not yet had a total breakdown. But I do not think anyone with a 12GS should put up with having to boot and finesse it into gear.

 

[TerryM]

OK you have my attention. Are any details available for this?
The reason I ask is the when my bike is cold (for the first few upchanges from 1-2) it's an absolute pig to change up. I mean heaving on the pedal.
After this it's perfect. Does this match the problem?

The first thing I noticed was reluctance to select first from neutral when cold and the change was a bit clunky, but I thought this was just a running in thing. Next it would not go into any other gear from first, so I gave up for ten minutes or so and started in gear, it would then select other gears on the move. When I next stopped it stuck firmly in first and could not be shifted. The dreaded BMW emergency service took about five hours to work through their procedures, but once at the dealer they immediately ordered a replacement 'box. The bike was off the road for seven days.

The new box has so far been fine without any clunkiness and selection of first is in a different league from the original. BMW are being slow to advise on the cause of failure!!!!!!!!

 

[Gonzo]

Now you come to mention it...........

The Neutral to first thing is a regular feature for me on my commute to the smoke. Picture me on spanking new 12gs, front of queue at lights, A12 into Londinium with cars/truck/buses/vans parting to avoid me while I'm hammering my left foot on the lever. Have learnt to visually check the shift indicator every time.........

And secondly, 4th to 5th. On three separate occasions, after executing what I though was a normal upshift and applying half to three-quarter throttle I've had some serious lurching as if only half the cog was engaged. A declutch and a firm shove sorts it but must really get it looked at.

Small gripes for now, and absolutely does not get in the way of a fantastic ride to work!!! This bike is made for urban warfare.

 

[Dave Price]

I'm aware that 'Clarks of Rednals' demonstrator required a new gearbox.
The gearbox on my 1200 has been excellent from day 1 and has now covered 6500 miles.

 

[The Machine Cat]

OK you have my attention. Are any details available for this?
The reason I ask is the when my bike is cold (for the first few upchanges from 1-2) it's an absolute pig to change up. I mean heaving on the pedal.
After this it's perfect. Does this match the problem?

Same thing happened to me and my dealer simply changed the gearbox oil to 100% synthetic and now everything is just fine...

 

[Schtum]

Re: Now you come to mention it...........

A12 into Londinium with cars/truck/buses/vans parting to avoid me while I'm hammering my left foot on the lever.

Don't do it...! You'll only bend the selector forks. Just release the clutch a little while selecting first gear.

 

[Russ]

the GS is a fantastic urban warfare toy.

Only once has my GS refused to select first from neutral, but otherwise it is great! I got the 4th/5th gear crunch as a result of some sloppy left footwork...great when you're gunning it on the motorway

The GS is easier to work with than my VFR 'boxes which would randomly deselect a gear at inappropriate moments and required some heavy footwork too.

 

[Schtum]

the GS is a fantastic urban warfare toy.

Just let me make sure I understand you correctly here.......

You are a complete and utter bloody hooligan, aren't you Russ...?