2008 1200 GS - Buying Advice Please

[solarider]

So, I have finally decided to take the plunge on a 1200 GS.

I have tracked down a 2008 model with 7,000 miles on the clock with the Dynamic and Premium Packs, a full set of expandable luggage with liners and a BMW alarm/immobilizer.

Bought new from Vines and serviced by Vines (2 services so far all stamped up). Lots of receipts for everything.

Seems really clean. The owner is asking for £7995, but might be open to a bit of haggling, although not much.

So, a few questions:

1) Is it a fair price? I think so vs a main dealer price, but this is a private sale even though it has a transferable BMW warranty until March 2011.

2) Are there any known faults with the 2008 model to look out for?

3) Any general checks I should make?

Thanks all!

 

[Slowdown]

I'm sure the seller is a fine upstanding person, but I'd definately get it HPI checked and make sure the engine and frame numbers match the paperwork.

 

[solarider]

Thanks. Yep, that all checks out. The paperwork matches his address, he has the sales receipt which also matches his address, the frame number matches the paperwork. It all seems legit.

I have done a HPI check and it shows outstanding finance, which the seller was open about. I obviously need this settling before parting with any cash, and he says that he will.

Maybe I am worrying too much as it seems fairly straight, but I want to be sure.

Does it seem a fair price?

Any obvious mechanicals/cosmetic signs of damage to be aware of?

 

[Slowdown]

Dunno about the price - it's only worth what you're prepared to pay...

Perhaps call Vines and make sure all the warranty work's been done (if any?)

And check the final drive in the usual way.

Then take it for the usual test ride.

If it ticks the boxes an d 'feels' right then buy it. If not, thee's plenty of other bikes for sale on here and at dealers. Vines have loads of bikes for sale at present, albeit at dealer prices.

 

[solarider]

Cheers.

I am new to GS and shaft drive. What does checking the final drive in the usual way entail exactly?

I took it out for a test ride and it felt all good. The gear box is quite clunky, but I think this is a GS characteristic. It all slots in nicely, just a bit loud.

Thanks for the advice about contacting Vines, I'll do that tomorrow. If the warranty work wasn't carried out, should I be worried? I take it BMW will still do any work if it wasn't?

With regards to price, the main dealer equivalents seem to be £9 to £9.5k. Hence it seems fairly competitive to me.

 

[Bryn]

Is the bike less than 2 years old with full history?

If so its still under warranty, which can be extended by you for another year -that will include full recovery.

Meanwhile any recalls will still be covered under the warranty period

renewing the warranty is definately worth doing