Dealer/owner added options

[ehlersgrub]

If I purchase a new standard GS with ABS which, if any of the following options can a dealer, or myself install later? ESA, ASC, TPM, Computer. Can I install standard GS ESA shocks on a GSA with ESA for a lowered affect? I've asked these questions to a couple of dealers and they don't seem confident in their answers either way. Thanks.

[marc]

It's a hard question to answer because while the technical answer may be yes there have been cases where dealers can not get the needed support from BMW to actually do the job.

Then there is the cost... something that costs $200-$300 extra when you buy the bike will cost three times that amount as an add-on.

My best guess based upon what I've heard from others is:

ESA: no
ASC: maybe
TPM: maybe
Computer: no

Do you not believe the dealer because he is saying No? Or Yes? If you don't believe a dealer saying yes ask the maintenance folks for a reference to someone who's bike was updated. Tell them you want to get a before/after opinion

[ehlersgrub]

I spoke with 2 dealers. Both said they would confirm and get back to me but neither one did.
ESA: 1 No, 1 maybe
ASC: 2 maybe

[Marty H]

I was in the BMW bike business for a while - the issue is with the two computers on the bike.

The build spec determines how these are programmed at the factory - IIRC the only dealer retrofit is the alarm system. You might be able to have one of the computers altered to accept the trip computer stuff by the new maintenance system (CMOS I think) but not sure if your bike will have all the associated sensors e.g. air temp, oil level, and so on.

Trying to add ESA after the fact might be done but it will cost you way more than the cost of the option installed at the factory. Think different handlebar switch gear, reprogrammed computers from BMW, labor costs etc. The answer should be no to that question just on ethical grounds IMO.

Assuming you had ESA on your Adventure, I suppose you could change those with standard ESA shocks from a GS, but I think an adjustment to the seat would give you an equivalent effect for much less $$. We used to modify Adventures with standard Ohlins shocks that can be spec built. That got a lot of big bikes down low for smaller riders like some Asian men and women.

I believe Ohlins makes, or was thinking of making, an adjustable ESA type shock so maybe you can ask them if they can get you an ESA system for your bike. I know another company makes shocks that work with the BMW ESA system and some guys have migrated to them over the BMW gear but I don't think they make a stand alone - do a little calling around, I might be wrong on that.

TPM can be acquired on the aftermarket - thus avoiding the BMW system - cheaper too. The only issue with that might be the spoked rims but I'm guessing if BMW made them to work with a TPM sensor they should accomodate an aftermarket system.

Good luck.