questions from noob

[tino]

I just test-rode an R1200GS Adventure this morning. I absolutely loved it!
My question as a potential new owner is this: How expensive is the bike to own and maintain? I can handle engine oil,final drive, plug replacement etc..
not sure about valve adjustment, looks like it should be fairly easy though.

My other major concern is the final drive issue. I have never heard of one failing on a Japaneses bike, but seeems to be a problem with some BMWs.
I have owned several VFRs and Honda still refuses to admit there there is a problem with their regulator/rectifiers. So, I hope BMW doesn't treat their customers the same way.
Thank you in advance for any answers/advice.
Tino

[marc]

Welcome to the forum. Sorry for the delay in approving the thread. Sometimes I'm out riding.

If you have the dealer do everything maintenance can be quite expensive. There are two different services, one done at 6K, 18K, 30K, etc and the other done at 12K, 24K, 36K, etc. One runs in the $250-$400 range. The other is in in the $500-$700 range. The newer bikes may be different do the to the new valve train. That said, working the bikes is quite easy if you are somewhat mechanically inclined. That can cut the maintenance cost drastically.

The FD issue is complicated for several reasons. One: it's an emotional issue. Two, people mix and match statistics for oilheads and hexheads. They are two completely different designs and, more importantly, have completely different failure modes. And apparently BMW is like Honda... they don't talk.

FDs sometimes break. How often? Don't know and BMW doesn't say. Everything else I could say about the subject is opinion that may be wrong so I'll shut up.

[rcliffor]

Go over to Advrider and read the G-spot forums---lots of good information (and a few crybabies). Personally, I would stay with 2007 or newer models. It seems like BMW has eliminated many issues with the newer bikes.

[tino]

Thanks for the replies. I am looking at either a 2010 or 2011 model. Just trying to find the best deal. I was told by some friends who own BMW's that the dealers always charge MSRP and will NOT negotiate on price, but rather make deals on demonstrator models. I hope that is not the case, because if I walk in with cash and they won't budge on price, I might have to look at other makes.

[Chiba]

Originally Posted by tino

I have owned several VFRs and Honda still refuses to admit there there is a problem with their regulator/rectifiers. So, I hope BMW doesn't treat their customers the same way.

You're going to need to learn to live with disappointment.



BMW rarely admits/recognizes a problem with their bikes.

--chiba

[rcliffor]

Your dealer may not negotiate on the bike itself, but most will cut a deal on accessories, particularly things that require dealer labor to install. Decide ahead of time which farkles you want to add and then try to get them included at little or not cost.

[marty hill]

I have recd. discounts on new BMW's from 6 different dealers. Anyone who says no discounts is wrong!

[tino]

A friend of mine said he got a great deal from a dealer in Orlando so I guess there is hope. Plus... we just got an discount airline in town that flys there pretty cheap.