R1200gs rookie - some basic questions

[xs750xs]

Hi there.
I just bought a 2004 yellow, spoked GS in as new condition, one owner, 12000 miles. I'm chuft to bits with it.
I have 9 bikes (including a R65 monloever) and this without doubt is the most beautifully engineered bike I've owned.
This bike was traded in ready for its 1st service and I managed to get it at a good price from a trader who sold it to me agreed as unserviced.
So, I've just had a happy weekend servicing it. Well almost... I just need some oil and some advice (please..

Questions:
1. What freely available oil should I use? Should I go and buy the pricey stuff from BMW?

2. The bike is really mint but I noticed that the rear wheel rim won't polish up like the front. It looks like something has affected the finish. It has sort of foggy dull patches that won't polish out. It almost seems as though there's something under the lacquer or something on top thats attacked it. The surface is perfectly smooth though - no pitting etc.

3. I'm planning to buy panniers but am a bit mortified at the price. Any idea on a manufacturer that makes good panniers but at a reasonable price?

3. Finally, I'm planning some European/long distance touring next season. Anything (maintainance wise etc) I should keep an eye on?

Many thanks

[marc]

Originally Posted by xs750xs

1. What freely available oil should I use? Should I go and buy the pricey stuff from BMW?

Any oil that meets the specs in the Rider's Manual. If you don't have a copy you can find one here. A 10W-40 or 20W-50 that is API SG (most "motorcycle" oils are SG) will meet spec.

Originally Posted by xs750xs

2. The bike is really mint but I noticed that the rear wheel rim won't polish up like the front. It looks like something has affected the finish. It has sort of foggy dull patches that won't polish out. It almost seems as though there's something under the lacquer or something on top thats attacked it. The surface is perfectly smooth though - no pitting etc.

Brake pad dust? The rear pads are soft, can wear quickly, and leave lots of dust. If the dust were rubbed into the finish you might see what you describe.

Originally Posted by xs750xs

3. I'm planning to buy panniers but am a bit mortified at the price. Any idea on a manufacturer that makes good panniers but at a reasonable price?

Yep, panniers are expensive. I'm partial to the original Zega cases. Others prefer Jesse. Or Happy Trails which are a bit cheaper. Or Micatech if you really want to carry a lot of stuff. Hepco-becker makes good stuff, too. About the only case I personally don't like are the stock various, but there are plenty of folks that like those panniers, too.

Originally Posted by xs750xs

3. Finally, I'm planning some European/long distance touring next season. Anything (maintainance wise etc) I should keep an eye on?

I see you like the number 3 Normal maintenance should be all you need. That includes a full brake flush of wheel and control circuits at least once every two years. That is something people forget.

I change engine oil every 6K, tranny and FD fluid every 12K, and flush the brake system every 24K (which is just about every 2 years considering the annual mileage I put on my GS).