What years should I avoid

[rodsharp]

Most opinions expressed on here are about things that go wrong. I have had a twin spark 1150 with the "troublesome servo brakes" a 2007 1200 with the "troublesome fuel pump etc" and a twin cam . The only problems have been fuel gauge reading incorrectly (hardly an issue ) and rear preload adjuster going stiff so not too much to show really for about 70k miles.
Just get the one you fancy, ignore the profits of doom and enjoy it.

 

[(RIP) Miff]

I've had 2 2005 models. Both WITH servo ABS. 1st bike had done approx 16k. No problems whatsoever. I've never had a problem with the "sharpness" of the servo brakes. You get used to it. The ABS kept me upright in an emergency situation (but being rammed from behind soon fecked that up ).

2nd model has done 36k. The only problem is if the gear position sensor on the rear of the gearbox gets very wet (when washing the bike) it stops showing what gear it's in. A quick squirt of WD40/GT85/Fospro soon sorts it.

The 2nd one has had various farkles fitted prior to me buying it (decatted headers, Akro can, accelerator module). Apparently it's faster than the 1st one but I can't say that I'VE noticed this. Mate on a Varadero can't keep up with this one on the straights

Both bikes have had HID from Les Wassal fitted, and i junked the Vario topbox for a Givi as it'll take 2 crash helmets.

 

[duckspeed]

I have a 1200GS 04 with 71000+ miles on the clock and last week I had to replace the starter motor....

Have you spoke with BMW customer assistance, you may be offered a contribution to the cost of repair. Shocking tale of woe.

 

[nbjc]

Many thanks for the prompt replies. My main concern would be with the fuel pump controller. The possible failure of this unit without warning is also a safety issue. I had hoped that BMW had solved this on their later bikes but this appears not to be the case. As a result I think I will stick with my 1150.
Again many thanks for all the advice.

Regards
Niall

 

[Kaybe]

I have 54 plate with ABS.
Runs fine.
Only problem as Miff said "the gear position sensor on the rear of the gearbox gets very wet (when washing the bike) it stops showing what gear it's in. A quick squirt of WD40 soon sorts it."
Failing that after 3-4 miles running there is probably sufficient heat to dry out as it always corrects itself.
ABS has proved very useful on some of the wee crappy roads with all the loose crap I drive on.
Had a big service done (24k) and was pleasantly surprised not too expensive.
Plus Mechanic said the bike was in excellent engineering order.
Must be the way I hustle with the bike on every occasion.
I have been thinking of getting a new engine model, but as it runs so well why bother.
Couple of Europe trips being planned for this year.
Work for me.

 

[(RIP) Miff]

I think I will stick with my 1150.
Again many thanks for all the advice.

Regards
Niall

Nah. Upgrade to a 1200...

 

[Bobbin-Man]

Many thanks for the prompt replies. My main concern would be with the fuel pump controller. The possible failure of this unit without warning is also a safety issue. I had hoped that BMW had solved this on their later bikes but this appears not to be the case. As a result I think I will stick with my 1150.
Again many thanks for all the advice.

Regards
Niall

Well it didn't take you long to bottle out of swapping your bike! You're probably right though ... the FPC problem is so common there must be abandoned bikes all over the place especially in Ireland. It's probably the reason why BMW have struggled to sell many since the introduction of the 1200 6 years ago

BTW mines a 53,000 mile '06, ABS/Servo, reliable, cheap to service at my local independent (he's much much better at it than me so better to have him do everything), and it was the best I could afford when I bought it which is usually the obvious way to work out which one to buy.

BTW no.2, if I was really worried about the FPC I'd just carry a spare, or maybe a by-pass lead that's a straightforward plug & play emergency swap. I'm not so worried though so I'll probably not bother

Stu.

 

[GS TRV]

I'd stick with the 1150 and use the trade in money for a big trip

 

[Sgt Bilco]

Many thanks for the prompt replies. My main concern would be with the fuel pump controller. The possible failure of this unit without warning is also a safety issue. I had hoped that BMW had solved this on their later bikes but this appears not to be the case. As a result I think I will stick with my 1150.
Again many thanks for all the advice.

Regards
Niall

Methinks that's a convenient excuse I think he's found a new supply of coal to fire the old 1150 and just can't see it go to waste

Seriously, the FPC WAS a problem but any bike with a faulty one would of had it changed by now and you should buy with confidence

 

[Nutty]

You're doing the right thing The 1200 is a complete pile of unreliable shite that should be avoided at all costs