Hole in my Brake pipe

[StooL]

Riding home last night my front brake lever started to get ever closer to my throttle and braking power was almost non-existent by the time I pulled into my drive. A quick inspection revealed a hole in the metal brake pipe that runs over the back of the mudguard. The hole is directly behind the speedo cable where they both meet and I would say that the speedo cable has worn through the brake pipe! Blinkin stupid design, not only could it leave you stranded, it's a very dangerous failure when it happens. I'm glad I got a warning whilst riding through the town pulling up at traffic lights rather than in an emergency stop situation.

Is this a known problem? My bike is a year 2000 1150 with ABS and has done 40k.

 

[Steve]

Is this a known problem? My bike is a year 2000 1150 with ABS and has done 40k.

Yep. There was a recall for it.

http://auto-recalls.justia.com/content/01V246000-BMW-R1150GS-2000.html

 

[StooL]

Thanks Steve. Seems the previous owner didn't get it checked out, or the dealer didn't bother. I guess it's only the front brake...who needs it!

I've never fiddled with any of the brake lines or speedo cable so it looks like they've been close friends since the bike hit the road. Thankfully I didn't find out about this problem the hard way. I recommend everyone have a wee gander at their bike and make sure they have clearance between the pipe and cable.

 

[Sergeant Pluck]

You don't seem to have much luck with getting holes in things Stool! Hope you don't get any more....

 

[StooL]

My bikes like a frickin colander. Definitely built on a Friday afternoon!