when buying a used 1200 gs are there

[sword]

any particular things to watch out for . The bike I am going to see is a 2007 and appears to be immaculate.But I am always wary so if there are any useful tips that I should know about I would appreciate hearing about them.If I am successful there will be a 2003 gs available soon in black and in. beautiful condition. Thank you for reading this

 

[Andy B]

For starters....

Ask what warranty work has been done. You are looking for replacement ignition ring antenna, replacement fuel pump controller (the black one). Likelihood is that it could have had a new front engine cover due to corrosion. Also ask about whether the final drive bearings have been replaced. None of these things are mileage - linked (perhaps with the exception of the FD bearings but there's a huge variance on mileage when they let go).

How many miles has it done?

 

[(RIP) Miff]

Check the rear brake disc carrier for cracks where the bolts are.

Put your hand on the rear hub and turn the wheel. You shouldn't feel ANY roughness.

 

[sword]

Thank you for this information. This is just the type of thing I need to know.There is low milage on this machine so I will have to check what warranty work has been done. Are there any known rust /corrosion spots?

 

[trainman]

Thank you for this information. This is just the type of thing I need to know.There is low milage on this machine so I will have to check what warranty work has been done. Are there any known rust /corrosion spots?

have a ride and check for pulsing brakes front and rear (disc issue) and make sure all the gadgets work esp the fuel gaugeand the heated grips!!

avoid servo brakes and ESA - reliability issue IMO

ABS and hard luggage good for future sale value

 

[forest biker]

. Are there any known rust /corrosion spots ?

As andy b has said above the front cover suffers on them , but so does the rest of the bike if not looked after , have a good close look all around the paintwork you will soon see if it has been acf50,d or similar through its life and kept up together or not

 

[gipsymagpie]

You missed a few....

Check rear subframe just aft of the pegs for cracking which can occur from a badly reassembled bike following a clutch change.

Check for clutch slippage under acceleration if you get to ride it, otherwise check for leaks around the back of the engine.

Check for weeping seals around the rear axle seal.

Err, you cannot check for failing exhaust valves unfortuntately.

 

[sword]

Thank you all for this advice.I have been thinking of looking at an RT as well for a change as I have been on a 1150 for the past 3 years and after looking at the list you have given me of known problems the RT is looking more attractive all the time. Thanks again

 

[Andy B]

I'll bow to those who know better than me but I suspect all the same issues apply to the RT!

Don't be to disheartened by what everyone had said. I'm on my 4th GS/GSA.