Things to check?

[silentwitness]

Hi all!!

I'm new to this forum and BMW bikes. I've just picked up an '02 Adventure with 1800 miles on it for £7500. Obviously it hasn't been used much and so I'm wondering what to check over.

The brake fluid level seems to be too high. It doesn't register on the sight glass so I took the cover off to find it was full, as was the clutch fluid. I'm guessing this is due to the brake fluid absorbing miosture over the 2 years?? I've called BMW and am thinking about taking it in for new brake and clutch fluid. Is it a difficult job to do yourself?

The engine oil also seems a little high which I'm changing in the next day or so along with the filter. When I started the bike earlier it was burning oil just after start, I understand this is normal until it's bedded in properly?

Is there any other major things that should be checked with such an underused bike?

Thanks in advance guys!!

Col

 

[Captain Beaky]

Have a good read around here, you'll find lots and lots of advice on maintaining these beasties.

At 7500 miles, it's not even run in yet.

Oil change may be worth it what does the service record say? Take care when you set the level - they will run you a merry chase with oil level checking, as oil gets "trapped" in the heads - read around here for lots of advice. Don't put synthetic in until it's stopped using oil. Use the right grade of oil (20w50 is specified for use down to 0 degrees). CHECK THE OIL LEVEL REGULARLY - THEY DO USE A FAIR BIT OF OIL WHEN RUNNING IN - YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

Brake and clutch fluid - yeah go ahead - not a difficult job but don't let Air get into the ABS unit under any circumstance. If you are not sure what you are doing, then take it to a bike shop (don't reccomend BMW - they'll charge you a fortune!) It's worth getting hold of a service manual before you start tinkering.

Have Fun.

Mike.

 

[The Slow Granger]

oil consumption

I have recetly purchased a 2nd hand 'blue one'. A mere baby at 1800 miles a few weeks ago now looks a decent 4K on the clock. I was worried by the oil consumption at first and am interested in Mikes comment about this slowing down after running in (when is this?) - is this something I can look forward to and if so why?

 

[Pukmeister]

Most boxer twins aren't fully run-in until about 15k when the rings have bedded themselves in. Because the cylinders are horizontal, there is a tendency for oil in the bores to prevent the rings bedding in fully at the bottom untila decent mileage has been covered. Your bike will burn oil at a far greater rate than any upright engine until this has occurred, so keep a regular check on the oil level, and take some with you if touring.

Don't worry, when most Japanese machines are worn out, the GS engine is just getting into its stride. Agricultural strength and longevity are its plus points.

 

[Gas'd Off]

You will find this very useful. Thanks Carl

 

[The Slow Granger]

as well as being unworthy I am now endebted, can I call you Master?

Steve