Gear selection problem?

[Speedy23]

Hi all, had a test ride on a 1200GS yesterday, very impressed - except that sometimes, the bike would not engage 1st. gear from neutral (i.e. starting off from stationary). On returning to the dealer's, he suggested that this was because of the "dry clutch". Sounds like BS to me. Having read that some bikes have gearbox problems, I'm a bit concerned. Any thoughts?

Cheers

Jan

 

[Gas'd Off]

because of the "dry clutch"

Fack some dealers talk shite!! What has a dry clutch got to do with anything!!
It is normal to find first a bit sticky to engage from neutral

 

[redcastle]

From what ive read from other BM owners its completely normal and not peculiar to the 1200gs, mine does it now and then

keep your left foot depressed on the lever and SLOWLY let the clutch out, in she goes.

 

[(RIP) Bin Ridin]

Dry clutch means the gbox input will stop when clutch is pulled.
wet clutch will keep input turning allowing it to find mesh.

 

[Yellow Peril]

Speedy do a search there was a thread entirely devoted to this subject but in a nutshell the selection of 1st generally needs either positive application (my approach) or rock the bike and it slips in easy.

 

[Steptoe]

Fack some dealers talk shite!! What has a dry clutch got to do with anything!!
It is normal to find first a bit sticky to engage from neutral

They're actually telling you the truth, most people not used to riding BMW's have trouble engaging the clutch when they first ride them. Due to the dry clutch.

We're all used to them, so don't even notice anymore. Bit like the BMW's from years ago, where the rear used to lift up as you pulled away. 1st timers on BM's used to notice it, usual riders didn't.

 

[Speedy23]

Thanks guys for your input - now reassured and £8500 poorer....can't wait to pick it up next week.

Regards

Jan

 

[(RIP) Bin Ridin]

If the thing won't engage, let clutch out half-way, this will turn the gearbox and engagement follows.
Don't stamp on the pedal.....

 

[Gas'd Off]

Dry clutch means the gbox input will stop when clutch is pulled.
wet clutch will keep input turning allowing it to find mesh.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! Of coarse! That makes perfect sense

They're actually telling you the truth, most people not used to riding BMW's have trouble engaging the clutch when they first ride them.

True indeed, I did think the box was stiff the first day of riding a GS then I got used to it
Re: Dealers actually telling the truth.
I've had a bit of the opposite recently so I'm feeling jaded with bmw motoradd.