Thoughts on 2004 R1200GS

[mpgscott]

Folks,

Currently looking at a 2004 R1200GS, looks a nice clean example and decent history. Its done 27K miles.

So what like are they, had a couple of later twin cam models but looking to see what to look out for and what the experiences are in ownership with these early models. Its had the ABS recently by-passed with a motorwox kit and this doesnt phase me really. Its been mot’d like this so seems all good to go.

Look forward to your thoughts

Mark

 

[UturnTony]

They are great bikes but do have some issues.

With the ABS already dealt with that's a real possibility of a failure gone so that's good.
The usual problem of the final drive, any discernable free play when rocked by gripping
the wheel at 12 and 6? Any oil leaks from the FD?
Have all the re-calls been done? (important)
The fuel strips are dodgy so, is the fuel gauge working?

At the right price, a cracking bike.

 

[Bendy toy]

Gearbox rattle in neutral that goes away with the clutch pulled in. Check carefully they get ever more noisy from around 35K, but can be detected before that.

Alternator corrosion is likely on an older bike. Factor in the costs of a new one.

Do the heated grips work? A new pair are about £200.

 

[Kersidan]

Just to reiterate what has been said already. I have a 2006 (2004 MY) 1200 GS and it's a cracking bike (32K miles) I did an ABS bypass 2 years ago and it's a better bike for it and absolutely no MOT issues whatsoever. Yes FD's are an issue, but that's true an any year of GS. Allow for an FD rebuild as preventative maintenance and then change the FD oil every year and there shouldn't be a problem. New suspension would also be a worthwhile enhancement. I use Nitron units as they're sublime. I have a couple of friends with later model (LC) GS versions and they can't believe how great my bike is to ride compared to theirs!

Mark

 

[Popell]

I have '05 GS that now has 39k miles on it.
Had no issues re the FD but I change the oil annually along with gearbox oil
Had no issues re the ABS
Had no issues re the Fuel Strip
Did replace original rear shock with a Nitron and had to buy a replacement BMW standard on tour(Nitron pooped a seal), Nitron were great and replaced mine with an updated model but having spunked a wad of cash on the BMW replacement, I am still using that and the Nitron went to a new owner unused.
Heated grip on rhs went and was replaced.
Clutch replaced - not worn but contaminated by a weeping oil seal
No other issues - all mates now have LCs but they don't arrive at the hotel before me (I keep the booking details with me!!)

Off on Friday for Spanish tour - total confidence in the bike

Probably jinxed myself now!!

 

[Bendy toy]

My 08 has various annoying niggles but it's by far the best bike I've owned and rides better than almost any bike Ive ridden.

The main annoyance is the cost of OEM stuff that's often not as reliable as it should be. Fuel strip and heated grips come to mind. The final drive at 50,000 miles was sent to Mikey. He said all bearings were worn and end of life. There is no reliable age that they'll need doing, so budget for that.

 

[Kersidan]

I maybe lucky but I've had no issues whatsoever with my GS in 32K miles. Fuel gauge works, no corrosion anywhere, mind you it only gets summer month use as I'm a softey. Alternator OK and heated grips are fine. Now I've just jinxed myself! All the advice above is good to bear in mind though when buying a second hand GS.

 

[Sgt Bilco]

The early 1200's are great bikes and any issues should be long behind it. They seem to spin up quicker than later ones and every one I've ridden has been really good.

I'd have no hesitation whatsoever in taking and early 1200.

 

[mpgscott]

Many thanks for all the thoughts very much appreciated.

Cheers
Mark

 

[mpgscott]

One further question has anyone changed the indicators and rear lights over to the white Led types, just think it would give it a newer cleaner look.