ist gear problems

[dotgaz]

I have only just bought my 1200 GS (300 miles) but still coming to terms with 1st gear or better still trying to put it in 1st gear. I have noticed a clutch smell if I am in traffic 1st gear and clutch in, so put it in neutral then couldn't put it back in 1st. Worse when I first start off in the morning cannot seem to put it in 1st gear from neutral pull clutch in and out but will not go in to 1st I have to shift to 2nd then 1st before it goes in and this only works sometimes. This is my 1st BMrr after british and jap bikes. Am I doing something wrong after all it isn't rocket science. Should I be stamping or stroking? or do I have to hold my tongue in a funny positon, The only other thing is the innacuracy of the fuel gauge if I stop I can jump on it to find out that I it has gone down half a tank.

 

[Steve]

If it's got the same "habits" as the 1150 box, release the clutch slightly while trying to put it into first. Should go in with a nice little "clunk".

 

[aspad]

the 12

Correct advice re playing the clutch when trying to get first - I still have to do this after 6500Kms. The clutch smell diminishes a lot but is still there if you ever give the clutch a really good workout.
The fuel guage is just built that way ie shows full until half empty and counts down from there. The good news is that the countdown/Kms to go function is very accureate and that you get about 400kms to the tank.
The 12 is a stonking bike IMO. I love mine more as the days go by

 

[split28]

Had this problem... my solution was spray liberal amounts of WD40 around the gear lever spindle, apparently it can get a little corroded and just sticks but this may not be the case with yours with it only having 300 miles?

Otherwise like above just let the clutch out slowly and usually 1st gear engages.

 

[Gonzo]

Mine needs a firm push on the lever for first, and when a quick getaway is crucial (actually, when isn't it? ) a quick glance at the shift indicator is the back up.

It's getting better, and at 2500 miles have almost forgotten about it.

 

[dotgaz]

Thanks for the advice I'll try it, apart from that I love it I can't wait till 1st service I need to open it up. I must admit I have never been so high up on a bike before like being in a 4 wheel drive.