Model choice (brake issues etc)

[MattW]

Hi All,
First proper post in here after saying hi, so forgive my newbieness

I'll be getting hold of a GS this autumn (still saving) and am trying to narrow down on model and spec.

I've done loads of reading on here and other sites and I've come to the conclusion that I'm not really too fussed about whether I end up with an 1100, 1150 or 1200. If were money were no object, I'd love a 1200GSA, but short of a lottery win(!) I think I'm going to be looking at an 1100 or early 1200 - it'll all depend on savings and loan repayments come the time.

After scaring myself silly regarding final drives, input shaft splines and brakes etc, I've calmed down and decided that the only thing I'd rather avoid is servo brakes (I've no problem with the thought of ABS - never had it previously, but I can't see it being a bad thing). I'm not afraid of spanners and I accept that ownership of an earlier oilhead may be something of a hobby from time to time, but I'd rather avoid huge capital cost items which I've no choice over (like brake servo's!).

So, if I've got this right and I want to avoid a brake servo, I'll need to avoid ABS bikes between 2003 and 2007 (or perhaps late 06)? Any advice about this would be gratefully received.

cheers

Matt

 

[BegesRus]

Matt,

I think your on the right track by avoiding servo - the brakes are powerful enough without the pump motors kickin' in as well

ABS - worthwhile if you even find it kicks-in. What about when the ABS warning light comes on? Take it to a dealer and get your money ready.

I've had servo - I've had ABS - Now I have neither and I feel better for it

 

[Davy F]

If you don't want the servos, that rules out any 04/05 1200's with ABS.

I have the servos on my '05 machine and actually like them, or at least it doesn't bother me the way it does others. If the servo motor goes belly up, well, I'll just get the brakes re-plumbed like 'normal' brakes and do without the ABS. I have to say I got rather paranoid for a while here reading several bad opinions about the servo brakes, but it's not the end of the world should they quit (unless I'm on a really really steep hill ).

 

[how far to]

1100 every time.spend the money you save on your RTW trip without breaking down as much and still have enough after fuel for a bottle of vodka a day all the way to vladivostock and on.......

 

[MattW]

Thanks for the guidance guys

1100 every time.spend the money you save on your RTW trip without breaking down as much and still have enough after fuel for a bottle of vodka a day all the way to vladivostock and on.......

If I could find a nice 1100, I'd have no hesitation, but it seems that those with the nice ones are keeping hold

cheers

Matt

 

[how far to]

£2k will get you a good one,dont worry too much about mileage ,see if its been looked after.Bmw fsh is not that important as owners tend to be mechanically adept or at least sympathetic.You ve obviously done some homework,you know what to ask,find a cheaper one from an owner who is au fait or alternately knows his limitations and uses an independent specialist.These guys tend to be enthusists so for my money a history from them is worth more than the official sausage factory.Enjoy

 

[bowser]

Hi All,

After scaring myself silly regarding final drives, input shaft splines and brakes etc, I've calmed down and decided that the only thing I'd rather avoid is servo brakes.

Matt

Only thing I can add is, remember that people who are happy with their bike and never have anything go wrong with it, don't post messages week in and week out say, Hi f--k all wrong with my bike this week again etc etc. So you will always get a disproportionate number of people asking about problems. For what its worth there are issues but they really are not the massive problem you would guess from reading posts here.

Steer clear of servo brakes, ABS is nice, I dont have it and could have used it once or twice, but I wouldn't let the lack be a deal breaker. Other than that have fun, oh and buy an 1100 they are by far and away the best, IMO (no H as there is bugger all humble about me) ;-)

 

[MattW]

Thanks for the encouraging advice guys

I'm definitely going to look out for an 1100.

cheers

Matt

 

[how far to]

Bowsers right about why people post.Hes also right about ABS,saved my life in the past,I can brake hard with out losing the front in 95% of conditions,but certainly not steer at the same time.Well worth having in the rain whilst dodging the artic wheel bouncing towards you from the other side of the motorway.....Well worth the extra dosh.Cheers