Great video, thanks ! I have a 2014 1200 GSA, third owner. Had the driveshaft checked at a BMW dealer at 55000 km and it was replaced without charge. What bothers me is that they knew this for a long time and just made the owners pay for it. It would be the right thing if they would reimburse the owners that had their pockets emptied for a replacement driveshaft. Greetings from The Netherlands.
The explanation for why BMW is doing this free is simple. To understand why, you have to think from a legal perspective. When we bought our boxers, we knew what the maintenance requirements were. It didn’t include replacing the driveshaft at 60,000 Kilometres or 36 K miles. That is however now a service requirement based on failure rates, and subsequent safety risks. That can’t retroactively impose a major service requirement after the fact. (After you bought your bike) They are doing the right thing, (due diligence), but not out of the goodness of their heart. I think they also want it inspected (at your cost) at 24k miles. I think the service interval on the 1300 is longer, but because it’s identified up front (In the manual), there’s no free replacements for them ever.
As for the 1300GS's driveshaft, it too is a service, and replacement, item. The only difference (other than its cost) is that the replacement interval is every 48,000 miles, as opposed to the 36,000-mile interval for the 1200 and 1250 K5x models. The service/replacement requirements for the 1300 GS were spelled out in the Rider's Manual since its introduction, and ongoing costs are not covered by BMW. Getting back to the 1200s and 1250s, it's also important to note that the dealer service at the 12,000-mile intervals is more than a visual inspection and regrease of the splines. It involves a test of the driveshaft, with the bike hooked up to the dealer's shop computer. The rear wheel is removed, a special "hub" installed, and the hub spun with a specific model of cordless drill. It's a simple pass/fail test, with the result popping up on the BMW shop's computer. If it fails, the driveshaft is replaced, regardless of mileage. These procedures are spelled out in two related Technical Service Bulletins, one of which was amended once, primarily to add model year 2024 K5x models, llike the 2024 1250 GSA, for example. These Service Bulletins (issued to BMW dealers) have been widely available online for quite some time. All this to say, while the letter to owners is recent, this service campaign has been going on for some time.
Hi Kevin- Nice follow up on the service bulletin. When I received that in the mail last weekend, I had to read it several times to make sure I was reading it correctly. I agree with you that BMW did the right thing. Will be interesting to learn what new changes to the driveshaft were made in the 1300.
Working in the mechanical field, I have seen over the last few years that a lot of Bearings started to fail. Mostly overseas stuff. Some supposed precision bearings literally ground themselves to dust within weeks on brand new high speed equipment. This efficiency and price pushing is having an impact on quality and some countries will take shortcuts without a second thought. When parts were made in countries where having good steel to start with, everything lasted longer. And when the thought was quality from the word go. Now the concern is more for profits and shareholders controlled by accountants. Somebody here commented about some older bikes, still OEM shaft 50 years later…. BMW knows how to build it right, as do others. Goldwings have shafts that last 200k miles. For a bearing the difference is a couple dollars in build cost from great to eehh. Whats reputation worth?
yes - it is a minor thing - but in the computer industry the fans used in a PC can make a big difference - sleeve bearing fans vs ball bearing fans - there is a minor cost difference between the two at mfr level , but the sleeve bearing will start to squeal ( and fail ) long before a ball bearing fan ...so if you build your own PC - make sure you get a BB fan.
The R1300 service interval calls for driveshaft replacement at 48k miles (80k km). This is currently an OWNER cost, but it IS longer than the new service schedule for the earlier models.
I believe the acute angle is why the shaft fail. That’s also why the 1300 should last longer, the swing arm is longer and the angle less acute. Universal joints endure more stress the more acute the angle.
Good theory, but a driveshaft should never be a disposal component. At this point you change your driveshaft at the same intervals at fuel filters on the older models
I have two LC and had several more before. I do a lot of my own work on the bikes. One item on my to do list has always been, lube the splines and joints. Done many many miles, so far been good. I had friends on LC’s and some had several failures on their shafts on the same bike. There are rebuildable aftermarket available, like for a car or truck. But with BMW now covering it long term, I’m good with that.
Great video, thanks for the update. BMW would have lost a lot of business had they not done this, especially since you pay a huge premium to buy their motorcycles in the first place.
@@TheBMWGuythanks for your informative video. I enjoy your content. I’ve really enjoyed my 2018 R1200 GSA. I did have the drain valve installed last year but no mention at the time of this potential issue. I’m curious to know which bikes that you would consider more reliable? I don’t have a significant amount of miles on mine but it has been reliable as far as I can tell.
@ agreed and I’m someone who’s owned a number of BMW’s but currently in the process of selling my 2021 XR and unlikely to ever buy another BMW. Too expensive to maintain and too many recalls.
I've seen nothing on any of the New Zealand Facebook pages for a recall here in NZ! Hopefully they include us as well, there lots of GS's that fall into this category here in New Zealand.
Bought my 2018 R1200RS in 2020 with 8k miles. Had the driveshaft replaced this spring with 38k miles. Just got the bike back from the dealer 2 weeks ago after having all the cams replaced. Luckily, I had an extended service contract or I'd be out $6000. . I'm not sure I'll buy another BMW.
If i was their marketing manager, I would now claim that that for R series from 2012 the driveshaft is Liftetime,unlimited mileage warranty. For older model user, the great independent BMW mechanic should form a network and establish a presence at least at the National Rallies, so old model user know who to rely on while they are on the road.
When taking my 2015 R1200RT in for an oil change last November they did the recall automatically. With only 15K on the bike the dealer replaced the shaft drive and installed the swingarm drain fixture as well. No charge to me. Oh, and I got my letter from BMW a week after the dealer did the work.
What year RT? I’ve had a couple customers report that when the shaft failed it locked the wheel up at 80MPH while on a iron butt ride. They said there was no vibration or noise leading up to the failure.
I am the third owner of a 2014 R1200RT and received the letter from BMW a few days ago. I have done all of my own maintenance even though BMW Scottsdale is 2 miles from my home. I do a better job and it's much cheaper. I will have them do the required service per the bulletin.
Great video and thanks. Greasing the splines will be a winter project! Have you ever been asked to troubleshoot the 1250 engine for a "clanking" sound that only occurs upon acceleration between 3K-4K rpm when the engine oil is hot (does not occur when cold)?
Driveshafts, ABS servo brakes, cam wear and all the new electronic stuff. My GS is an '08 and it just keeps making me feel like the Hexhead version is the best intersection of features and reliability. Prior owner had to get the ABS module rebuilt, but at least it was a candidate for a rebuild. Maintenance seemed strange in some ways when I first got it, but now it mostly makes sense and I'll be able to handle anything needed up to any serious engine work. These bikes are getting so inexpensive that I'd just buy another and transfer my farkles instead of tearing the engine apart.
BMW Have been replacing the shaft here in the UK for a while now, had my 2019 done back in 2020 I think, so why has it taken so long for this recall to be rolled out in the USA?
Mine failed at 55,000 kms and I had to buy a used one out of pocket to keep riding the bike. Now I'm at +73,000 kms and the local dealer hasn't replaced it for me, because they don't have the drive shaft in stock.
I was informed by someone in the know that the driveshafts are fitted dry, get your new one fitted then take it apart and grease it and there won’t be a problem.
I just had my both r1200gs fuel pumps replaced under recall program.. One was 2005 and 2006 . The 2005 just touched 38000 miles I think I should call them and check for shaft replacement! Will give a try winter is the time to baby my gs. Thank you.
Hi! I was hoping you were closer. I’m in Eden Prairie, the ride up to Monticello almost killed me for my new RS 600 mile service, Charlie J in Victoria didn’t want to do it. I want to trade it anywayfor the 1300RT when it comes out.
Does BMW use the urethane type material for the cushioning of the drive train? If so I believe the urethane deforming is a major cause of the drive shaft failures. I had two drive fail on a 20008 R1200GSA. One drive the front u-joint came completely apart the second shaft the U-joints was out of phase. Being out of phase it put stress on the u-joint binding on each revolution.
To go from a price of $1200 dollars to $225 dollars! Just shows what a scam parts pricing is. Arbitrary and capricious doesn't begin to describe BMW's pricing.
my bike wasn't in the recall years, but I'm keeping an eye on drive shaft. I got one free fuel strip and it went bad after a year and the warranty had ran out. free fuel pump recall came with a free scratch I didn't notice until after I got home.
@@TheBMWGuy I got the bike at 49K miles and had the drive shaft serviced then. I'm around 55K miles now and will probably have the service done either this season or next. there's a dead throttle side heated grip too, but I have heated gloves, so it's low on the list. don't ask me about the rear main seal leak..I think you know how that goes.
If an official BMW service gives you the drive-shaft for a specific (deserving) bike and they don't have to spend the time on the replacement that they cannot charge the customer, it would make sense.
A video in Uk surfaced a few months ago of a GS with rear facing camera locking wheel solid and rider knocked off, bike was doing 60mph on A road, rider was unharmed, first documented case of drive shaft faluire on camera. Next thing is they will need another plant just to produce drive shafts for hundreds of thousands of bikes over 12 year period, i bet the waiting list will grow for driveshafts as months go on.
@@TheBMWGuy If only this commitment to "exceptional service" applied equally to the many unadmitted faults that do not have the potential for lawsuits.
@@TheBMWGuy I'd say that BMW's legal department had as much to do with this, as its engineering department. Makes one wonder if BMW had already settled out of court with an owner/owners, or their heirs, for injury/death, resulting from a driveshaft failure. I'm sure we'll never know.
Can you explain why this issue is specific to water-cooled models? I currently have an RNineT, which I understand has the same oil/air cooled 1200 engine they used to put in 1200 GS's. As far as I can tell, this model is not included in the drive shaft replacement schedule, but I'm not sure why.
Hi BMW guy. Really appreciate your great videos. I was wondering.. i have a 2014 K1300S, and I notice the speed needle occasionally dropping to zero while riding (all other guages remain working).. to go with that problem, occasionally I will put the key in, and turn it, and nothing will come up on the dash, or it will flick on and off. After a few trys, it will work as normal, seems tempormental... have you heard of such a problem? My original though was the ABS wheel sensor wires.. or worse yet, the ABS module.. then the dash not turning on happened and I suspect a problem somwhere else instead.. thanks heaps for tour videos.. would love to see more K1200 and K1300 bikes on here!
i typically don't problem solve for people in the comments, but this can be caused by your EWS ring or "ring antenna" its what reads your key chip and talks to the bike.
@TheBMWGuy I appreciate you sharing your knowledge, it will help us keep all our BMW bikes in top condition! Thanks from New Zealand, I will investigate this antenna further.
The RT, R and RS's are not the problem. The heavily articulated drive shafts on the GSA and GS regular ( not Lows) are most affected, since the driveshaft angle is so steep on these bikes with 8 to 9 inches of travel in the rear.
I guess the problem isn't nessesary the quality of ths shaft itself as it needs to keep on being replaced, and in the light of the drainage addition I would guess it's about the design and waterproof of the shaft housing and connecions to engine and final gear. I personally own a K600 GT and the design is similar but no recall or service bulletin. But then again, just my personal reflection.
The shaft was replaced on my 2019 gs1250 with 19,000km, yes 19,000km 😂 I've sold it since. Didn't they have a previous notification that said they'd replace it after 80,000km? Maybe looking at the data coming in, they saw these were failing very early. Nothing is free, watch them increase their servicing costs to cover this additional expense. Good news for you, I guess
I have a question outside of this issue. When I switch my ignition on my R1200RT I hear the bike priming itself with a slight hmmmm sound. Now I’m hearing a crackling sound which I believe its the throttle body servo and a lot of BMW R owners have also heard this same noise, but the bike runs just fine. However, I did notice my battery on my bike needs to be replaced as I’m having a hard time cranking the bike over. Could the cracking be tied to the battery needing to be replaced and maybe the throttle body servo not going through their complete cycle ? TY. Will follow. Your channel as it’s great info you provide.
I wonder if maybe the design of the drive shaft in relation to its position on the recalled bikes is different than the new 1300. Perhaps the recall bike puts more pressure on its shaft.
@@TheBMWGuy The test is spelled out in detail in two Technical Service Bulletins, which have been in place for quite some time now. The bike must be hooked up to the BMW dealer computer. The rear wheel is removed, and a special hub installed. That hub must then be spun by a specific model of cordless drill. It's a simple pass/fail test, with the result popping up on the dealer computer. If it fails, the driveshaft is replaced, regardless of mileage. The clock then starts ticking from zero again on the 36,000-mile driveshaft replacement interval (it's the shaft mileage, not the bike mileage). These two Technical Service Bulletins (issued to dealers) have been widely available online for a while now. One of the two bulletins was amended back in August, 2024, to add model year 2024 K5x models. When originally issued these bulletins applied to all K5x models, model year 2023 and older. That was changed to model year 2024, and older.
Great information! I like to perform my own maintenance. I have a 2024 R12. Where would I be able to purchase a shop manual? BMW makes it feel like anything other than adding oil to the bike is top secret. I've owned quite a few motorcycles and have always purchased the shop manual when I picked up my new bike.
This is going to hurt their sales, Hell My 2011 harley with 125,000 miles and I'm still using the original drive belt... BMW doesn't make cheap units and apperently making cheaper parts to get profits up!! Like all other corporations
The dealer in Indianapolis tells me you get one driveshaft at 36,000 miles after that the cost of a new DS is on the owner. Guess we will see if this changes.
Absolutely incorrect. The dealer will have had, for some time, at least two Technical Service Bulletins spelling out the details. I suggest your dealer might need a remedial reading course.
Thanks for going into the details. What a great service to the community. BTW i heard from a service manager at BMW that the oild head air head on non LC never had the issue. Was it a different part?
The rear joint on my 1996 R1100gs failed on a trip almost a year ago. Hauled the bike home (500 miles) and replaced it my self. Totally my fault, should have been inspecting it. I have already greased the splines on my 2016 gs with 23000 miles on it.
Something that I have found on my old K1200RS, which has the paralever rear swing-arm, is that the BMW factory service procedure does not even mention aligning the driveshaft u-joints to be in-phase during assembly. There is plenty of ad-hoc information about driveshaft phasing and the problems it can cause if out of phase, but the fact that neither the Factory Service Manual nor the aftermarket service manuals mention this alignment means that there are a lot of driveshafts out there that are misaligned. Could this be the root cause of these driveshaft failures?
The factory service manual I have does mention the driveshaft phasing for those models. But the newer k5x series only have 1 u-joint rather than 2 so phasing isn’t a problem
@ - really? So there’s only one u-joint at the front end of the shaft then? Didn’t know that. Edit- I just looked at the parts fiche for an R1250GS (K50) and there are definitely 2 u-joints on the drive shaft. It looks pretty much the same as the one on my K1200RS. What’s even funnier is the picture of the driveshaft in the fiche has the u-joint yokes improperly phased.
IMHO, a possible cause may be that the BMW LC boxer engines are becoming more and more powerful up to date, and they´ve began to compromise the transmission through the weakest point, which are the shaft cardan joints. If they want a more durable shaft drive, they should make it stronger, bigger, and heavier... thus they made a decision: the shaft drive stays as it is now, but it has a limited lifespan. I´ve own many BMW R bikes, I like the shaft drive, it´s clean, it´s silent... but I don´t think is better than other secundary transmissions. It´s different, that´s all. I traded my 2020 R1250RT for a Yamaha Tracer 9GT+, I´m very happy with the new bike and don´t mind to have a chain to clean and lube again. I have a BMW R850RT with stock everything but suspension and a rear drive seal, and I´m starting to think that this 27 years old machine is going to bury all those modern R bikes 🤣🤣🤣
They HAD it correct for decades. Maybe it's the higher torque/impact the newer motors give system. It weird that it took them 12 years to "make right" and at only every 36k miles. & 80% price drop. Weird. But at least they own upto it
@TheBMWGuy i think the Boxer engine, while antique, will retain people forever. If Harley can do it with parts falling off... I just learned that the oilhead shafts were rubber bushings! Yup too much vibration/power on newer engines
I have seen enough videos of drive shaft failures that I had just ordered some Molly lube just hours before I got the letter. Cancelled the order as I am 2500 miles away from a new drive shaft. Question. I had it in my mind that the splines were rusting, would freeze up and that the u-joints were the weakest point and that is what broke first. Am I wrong? If the splines remain free at both ends shouldn’t the u-joints last the life of the bike?
Strange how its only the water cooled boxer twins , its doubtful that BMW would have fitted a weaker driveshaft to a more powerful twin, compared to the oil/air cooled models ... !!??
Hmmm, it's interesting that the 1200 shaft was $1200 at one point.. and now $250 !! Makes you ask, did BW get a new shitty Chinese supplier?? 🤔 That's a huge difference in price
I'll believe this when I see it (the letter, that is). They have not stepped up to the plate for me yet. I have a 2016 R1200RS and while others have been contacted already, us RS owners seem to be second-class citizens. I already have a sour taste in my mouth thanks to BMW. I had better get my letter soon and get my driveshaft replaced. The bike has just over 60k miles on it and the driveshaft is stock.
@@TheBMWGuy See I have known about this for a long time now ... ever since GS and RT owners were reporting that it was being done on their bikes. Way back when this all kicked off for them I went in to two BMW dealers in Houston and asked them about it - one of whom I bought the bike from and the other is my current dealership. They both looked up my VIN and declared "there is nothing in the system for my bike regarding the driveshaft". Now I *know* the GS and RT guys were getting these letters at that time that stated all K5x bikes were affected / included and which my R1200RS is included model ... yet "nothing was in the system". I doubt that the guys were lying so clearly BMW ineffectively handled the advice to the dealers and the letter mail-outs to the owners. They knew about this problem, all right. They were just screwing around trying to do damage control and trying to weasel out of liability and not calling this a recall. The fact remained the yokes on their universal joints *are not up to the task*. Another riding buddy of mine had the driveshaft on his RS fail on a trip while he was riding and caused a lot of damage to his engine and transmission, both of which had to be replaced at partial cost to him. And he is a long-time BMW owner and unofficial brand ambassador. The images of his failed yoke are in a video on my channel. This has been going on for a long time now for the GS and RT owners, and one of my RS buddies reported on Faceplant that he *just got* his letter! 😒
You do not need to wait for a letter. This service campaugn has been underway for quite some time now. The dealer will have had two related Technical Service Bulletins on this issue, one of which was amended in August 2024 (primarily to include model year 2024 K5x models). These Tech Service Bulletins have been widely available online for many months.
@@markmayhew5487 You would think. However, earlier this year after I saw reports of GS and RT owners getting letters, I went to 2 dealerships and both said "there is nothing in the system" regarding my RS. They should have had two related Technical Service Bulletins on this issue. Because of that nonsense, I decided to "wait" until getting a letter. BMW USA finally got their act together and I got my letter (with my RS's VIN) on it last week. Now, even if they still have "nothing in the system", I have my letter.
The service campaign has been underway, in Canada/USA, since at least 2022 (it's detailed in two Service Bulletins issued to dealers). All that's new now is the letter to owners, along with new pages to imsert in the Rider's Manual, with an updated maintenance schedule.
Not crazy if you have been driven crazy.Moto guzzi no problem. Large Kilometers on Bmw 1200 3 breakdowns because of drive shafts . Last Knocking at Wagga wagga 2023. .$8,500 repair At Tamworth Dealer,BMW assist was great, but didnt cover 4 days in Tamworth due to Country& Western week !!All European motor cycles now looked at Dubiously!
Haha, but those are also plagued with driveshaft and rear drive issues. Maybe BMW will get there act together with the 2025 models. Only time will tell
I have a 2006 1200 rt with 180000 km on it with the original drive shaft. Should I be worried. I put the bike on the centre stand and check the play in the wheel side to side and forward and back and it feels rock solid so I’m guessing it’s ok. Any thoughts anyone??
The good news is that BMW will now pay to replace every drive shaft at 36000 miles. The bad news is all new BMW motorcycles will be chain drive! (or maybe that's more good news, it's all very confusing.🤪)
After 20 years of Bmw along with other brands, the driveshafts are what made me Dump Bmw ..never understood why people stay with BMW ..if maintenance is any consideration
New driveshaft on the 1300 is shorter. You either talk SHIT or are being threated like SHIT in the US! The was no recall in Germany, only a 'servicebulletin' if you ever showed up at a dealer. I do my own maintainance. I replaced my driveshaft 2 weeks ago myself in Germany, because I live an hour drive from the dealer, I couldn't be bother going there. I payed 149.99 Euro at a European BMW online parts dealer for a new driveshaft. My old one- original 2014- had 0 rust and 97K kilometers and was only regreased at 64K kilometers. Now the bearings were getting bad, which caused a light vibration. It's a bit of a fiddeling job, but you don't even need to get the oil out of the end drive. only need to heat up some bolts. to loosen the 'loctite-glue'. No need to drill holes in the rear fork, because that will only allow water to get in. BMW does not step up on the 1300. There they schedule for inspection regularly, but a 60K Kilometer for replacement is for your own pocket. Of course they can update...but bigger bearings means bigger driveshaft. Nobody wants that.
There is NO recall. It's a "service campaign", and it's been going on for quite some time. I had the driveshaft on my 2015 R1200 GSA replaced back in 2022, as part of this campaign.
I was looking at an rt… inth8nj I’ll go back to an fjr. Even if it’s paid for… there’s a total inconvenience with this. Maybe they need to offer a free pickup and drop off in that.
I have a question outside of this issue. When I switch my ignition on my R1200RT I hear the bike priming itself with a slight hmmmm sound. Now I’m hearing a crackling sound which I believe its the throttle body servo and a lot of BMW R owners have also heard this same noise, but the bike runs just fine. However, I did notice my battery on my bike needs to be replaced as I’m having a hard time cranking the bike over. Could the cracking be tied to the battery needing to be replaced and maybe the throttle body servo not going through their complete cycle ? TY. Will follow. Your channel as it’s great info you provide.
Great video, thanks ! I have a 2014 1200 GSA, third owner. Had the driveshaft checked at a BMW dealer at 55000 km and it was replaced without charge. What bothers me is that they knew this for a long time and just made the owners pay for it. It would be the right thing if they would reimburse the owners that had their pockets emptied for a replacement driveshaft. Greetings from The Netherlands.
I just had the driveshaft replaced on my 2017 R1200GS at GoAZ in Scottsdale, AZ. No charge to me. 😊
Good to know go AZ. Need to take my R1200RT to Go AZ
Thanks for keeping us updated🎉
You bet!
Thanks for the informational video. I think 2013 was the first model year for the R1200GS LC.
Yes, some were produced in 2012 but sold as a 2013 model year. I should I clarified that. Thanks
The explanation for why BMW is doing this free is simple.
To understand why, you have to think from a legal perspective.
When we bought our boxers, we knew what the maintenance requirements were. It didn’t include replacing the driveshaft at 60,000 Kilometres or 36 K miles. That is however now a service requirement based on failure rates, and subsequent safety risks.
That can’t retroactively impose a major service requirement after the fact.
(After you bought your bike)
They are doing the right thing, (due diligence), but not out of the goodness of their heart.
I think they also want it inspected (at your cost) at 24k miles.
I think the service interval on the 1300 is longer, but because it’s identified up front (In the manual), there’s no free replacements for them ever.
As for the 1300GS's driveshaft, it too is a service, and replacement, item. The only difference (other than its cost) is that the replacement interval is every 48,000 miles, as opposed to the 36,000-mile interval for the 1200 and 1250 K5x models. The service/replacement requirements for the 1300 GS were spelled out in the Rider's Manual since its introduction, and ongoing costs are not covered by BMW.
Getting back to the 1200s and 1250s, it's also important to note that the dealer service at the 12,000-mile intervals is more than a visual inspection and regrease of the splines. It involves a test of the driveshaft, with the bike hooked up to the dealer's shop computer. The rear wheel is removed, a special "hub" installed, and the hub spun with a specific model of cordless drill. It's a simple pass/fail test, with the result popping up on the BMW shop's computer. If it fails, the driveshaft is replaced, regardless of mileage. These procedures are spelled out in two related Technical Service Bulletins, one of which was amended once, primarily to add model year 2024 K5x models, llike the 2024 1250 GSA, for example. These Service Bulletins (issued to BMW dealers) have been widely available online for quite some time. All this to say, while the letter to owners is recent, this service campaign has been going on for some time.
Great video. That’s a huge fail for BMW. Good thing they are paying for the repair because we invest $30k (CAD) in these bikes to buy them brand new
Right! Hopefully it’s sorted out for the 1300’s
Glad I sold my 2013 GSA and bought a 2023 K1600 GT!
Why? Do you have free driveshaft replacement on the k? Nope! Lol. @@rockout1180
Hi Kevin- Nice follow up on the service bulletin. When I received that in the mail last weekend, I had to read it several times to make sure I was reading it correctly. I agree with you that BMW did the right thing. Will be interesting to learn what new changes to the driveshaft were made in the 1300.
Working in the mechanical field, I have seen over the last few years that a lot of Bearings started to fail. Mostly overseas stuff. Some supposed precision bearings literally ground themselves to dust within weeks on brand new high speed equipment.
This efficiency and price pushing is having an impact on quality and some countries will take shortcuts without a second thought.
When parts were made in countries where having good steel to start with, everything lasted longer. And when the thought was quality from the word go. Now the concern is more for profits and shareholders controlled by accountants.
Somebody here commented about some older bikes, still OEM shaft 50 years later…. BMW knows how to build it right, as do others. Goldwings have shafts that last 200k miles. For a bearing the difference is a couple dollars in build cost from great to eehh.
Whats reputation worth?
yes - it is a minor thing - but in the computer industry the fans used in a PC can make a big difference - sleeve bearing fans vs ball bearing fans - there is a minor cost difference between the two at mfr level , but the sleeve bearing will start to squeal ( and fail ) long before a ball bearing fan ...so if you build your own PC - make sure you get a BB fan.
Surely by now BMW should have mastered shaft drive since that's pretty much all they've made.
One would think
The R1300 service interval calls for driveshaft replacement at 48k miles (80k km). This is currently an OWNER cost, but it IS longer than the new service schedule for the earlier models.
They are starting to make some progress, but it is still a far cry from what owners are expecting.
Thanks!
No brother, thank you! This is what keeps the channel going.
I believe the acute angle is why the shaft fail. That’s also why the 1300 should last longer, the swing arm is longer and the angle less acute. Universal joints endure more stress the more acute the angle.
Good theory, but a driveshaft should never be a disposal component. At this point you change your driveshaft at the same intervals at fuel filters on the older models
I have two LC and had several more before. I do a lot of my own work on the bikes. One item on my to do list has always been, lube the splines and joints. Done many many miles, so far been good. I had friends on LC’s and some had several failures on their shafts on the same bike.
There are rebuildable aftermarket available, like for a car or truck. But with BMW now covering it long term, I’m good with that.
Right! Imagine if they added a driveshaft replacement every 36k that you were on the hook for. And the price was 1200$ like it used to be.
Thanks for the great explanation. BMW does reimburse their dealers for any Warranty and Recall work. I would just send your customers to them.
Great video, thanks for the update. BMW would have lost a lot of business had they not done this, especially since you pay a huge premium to buy their motorcycles in the first place.
It will probably get a few people to switch over to a different brand. Lots of bikes out there that are far more reliable
@@TheBMWGuythanks for your informative video. I enjoy your content.
I’ve really enjoyed my 2018 R1200 GSA. I did have the drain valve installed last year but no mention at the time of this potential issue. I’m curious to know which bikes that you would consider more reliable? I don’t have a significant amount of miles on mine but it has been reliable as far as I can tell.
@ agreed and I’m someone who’s owned a number of BMW’s but currently in the process of selling my 2021 XR and unlikely to ever buy another BMW. Too expensive to maintain and too many recalls.
I've seen nothing on any of the New Zealand Facebook pages for a recall here in NZ! Hopefully they include us as well, there lots of GS's that fall into this category here in New Zealand.
Bought my 2018 R1200RS in 2020 with 8k miles. Had the driveshaft replaced this spring with 38k miles. Just got the bike back from the dealer 2 weeks ago after having all the cams replaced. Luckily, I had an extended service contract or I'd be out $6000. . I'm not sure I'll buy another BMW.
Not yet in Australia!
its coming
If i was their marketing manager, I would now claim that that for R series from 2012 the driveshaft is Liftetime,unlimited mileage warranty. For older model user, the great independent BMW mechanic should form a network and establish a presence at least at the National Rallies, so old model user know who to rely on while they are on the road.
When taking my 2015 R1200RT in for an oil change last November they did the recall automatically. With only 15K on the bike the dealer replaced the shaft drive and installed the swingarm drain fixture as well. No charge to me. Oh, and I got my letter from BMW a week after the dealer did the work.
Thats the way it should be!
Had a virago that did not have this issue. Scary that my R1200RT can lock up if the shaft fails
What year RT? I’ve had a couple customers report that when the shaft failed it locked the wheel up at 80MPH while on a iron butt ride. They said there was no vibration or noise leading up to the failure.
Same can happen with chain drive if it gets in the right place ,or brake your foot and or casing
I am the third owner of a 2014 R1200RT and received the letter from BMW a few days ago. I have done all of my own maintenance even though BMW Scottsdale is 2 miles from my home. I do a better job and it's much cheaper. I will have them do the required service per the bulletin.
How many miles? I wonder if the dealership will provide you with the shaft to do at home if you are willing to do so.
@@TheBMWGuy
I bet not.
Great video and thanks. Greasing the splines will be a winter project! Have you ever been asked to troubleshoot the 1250 engine for a "clanking" sound that only occurs upon acceleration between 3K-4K rpm when the engine oil is hot (does not occur when cold)?
The chain on my 2020F900XR lasts about 18,000 miles. Drive shafts now last twice as long as chains. Seems like they should last longer than that.
I like chains.
Driveshafts, ABS servo brakes, cam wear and all the new electronic stuff. My GS is an '08 and it just keeps making me feel like the Hexhead version is the best intersection of features and reliability. Prior owner had to get the ABS module rebuilt, but at least it was a candidate for a rebuild. Maintenance seemed strange in some ways when I first got it, but now it mostly makes sense and I'll be able to handle anything needed up to any serious engine work. These bikes are getting so inexpensive that I'd just buy another and transfer my farkles instead of tearing the engine apart.
BMW Have been replacing the shaft here in the UK for a while now, had my 2019 done back in 2020 I think, so why has it taken so long for this recall to be rolled out in the USA?
The part number also changed when the price dropped to $219 about two years ago.
That’s a drastic drop.
Mine failed at 55,000 kms and I had to buy a used one out of pocket to keep riding the bike. Now I'm at +73,000 kms and the local dealer hasn't replaced it for me, because they don't have the drive shaft in stock.
man that sucks, i have replaced TONS of shafts for people that will never get it back. i feel bad.
I had the recall on my '16 GSA done with 2500 miles on it. The drive shaft failed the test parameters and was replaced.
I'm surprised they caught it so early!
I was informed by someone in the know that the driveshafts are fitted dry, get your new one fitted then take it apart and grease it and there won’t be a problem.
That’s false. They are greased from the factory. I’ve disassembled plenty of brand new bikes
I just had my both r1200gs fuel pumps replaced under recall program..
One was 2005 and 2006 . The 2005 just touched 38000 miles I think I should call them and check for shaft replacement! Will give a try winter is the time to baby my gs.
Thank you.
That is not a k5x model. The shaft replacement would not apply
In other words ONLY 1200 an 1250 Wethead models.
Hi! I was hoping you were closer. I’m in Eden Prairie, the ride up to Monticello almost killed me for my new RS 600 mile service, Charlie J in Victoria didn’t want to do it. I want to trade it anywayfor the 1300RT when it comes out.
I am pretty close to you. In hudson Wisconsin
Does BMW use the urethane type material for the cushioning of the drive train? If so I believe the urethane deforming is a major cause of the drive shaft failures. I had two drive fail on a 20008 R1200GSA. One drive the front u-joint came completely apart the second shaft the U-joints was out of phase. Being out of phase it put stress on the u-joint binding on each revolution.
No they do not. Rigidity mounted
I had enough of my bmw . I went last year and bought a Harley pan America. I am so glad i did
How do you like it?
It's the best bike I have ever owned
To go from a price of $1200 dollars to $225 dollars! Just shows what a scam parts pricing is. Arbitrary and capricious doesn't begin to describe BMW's pricing.
my bike wasn't in the recall years, but I'm keeping an eye on drive shaft. I got one free fuel strip and it went bad after a year and the warranty had ran out. free fuel pump recall came with a free scratch I didn't notice until after I got home.
I would start doing a spline lube every 12k miles
@@TheBMWGuy I got the bike at 49K miles and had the drive shaft serviced then. I'm around 55K miles now and will probably have the service done either this season or next. there's a dead throttle side heated grip too, but I have heated gloves, so it's low on the list. don't ask me about the rear main seal leak..I think you know how that goes.
If an official BMW service gives you the drive-shaft for a specific (deserving) bike and they don't have to spend the time on the replacement that they cannot charge the customer, it would make sense.
Automotive component testing is out of this world - heat, vibration might affect the hardened parts of the driveshaft - good solution.
I work for a OEM motorcycle manufacturer as an engineer. I believe it’s a miss on bmw or a supplier problem.
A video in Uk surfaced a few months ago of a GS with rear facing camera locking wheel solid and rider knocked off, bike was doing 60mph on A road, rider was unharmed, first documented case of drive shaft faluire on camera.
Next thing is they will need another plant just to produce drive shafts for hundreds of thousands of bikes over 12 year period, i bet the waiting list will grow for driveshafts as months go on.
I bet bmw has been preparing for a massive influx of driveshaft replacements
I've had two drive shafts fail (properly greased with the BMW stuff). I'll see if they'll do anything for me!
I have replaced TONS of shafts for people that will never get it back.
"Stepping up to the plate" or mitigating future potential lawsuits when failures result in injury or death?
I'd say it's a little of both.
@@TheBMWGuy If only this commitment to "exceptional service" applied equally to the many unadmitted faults that do not have the potential for lawsuits.
@@TheBMWGuy I'd say that BMW's legal department had as much to do with this, as its engineering department. Makes one wonder if BMW had already settled out of court with an owner/owners, or their heirs, for injury/death, resulting from a driveshaft failure. I'm sure we'll never know.
Can you explain why this issue is specific to water-cooled models? I currently have an RNineT, which I understand has the same oil/air cooled 1200 engine they used to put in 1200 GS's. As far as I can tell, this model is not included in the drive shaft replacement schedule, but I'm not sure why.
Hi BMW guy. Really appreciate your great videos. I was wondering.. i have a 2014 K1300S, and I notice the speed needle occasionally dropping to zero while riding (all other guages remain working).. to go with that problem, occasionally I will put the key in, and turn it, and nothing will come up on the dash, or it will flick on and off. After a few trys, it will work as normal, seems tempormental... have you heard of such a problem?
My original though was the ABS wheel sensor wires.. or worse yet, the ABS module.. then the dash not turning on happened and I suspect a problem somwhere else instead.. thanks heaps for tour videos.. would love to see more K1200 and K1300 bikes on here!
i typically don't problem solve for people in the comments, but this can be caused by your EWS ring or "ring antenna" its what reads your key chip and talks to the bike.
@TheBMWGuy I appreciate you sharing your knowledge, it will help us keep all our BMW bikes in top condition! Thanks from New Zealand, I will investigate this antenna further.
I wonder why the K1600 bikes of the same range of years are not affected?
Good point, I imagine they use a different shaft. I haven’t seen any k1600 shaft failures before
My 2015 R1200RT did 100,000km over 6 years without issue.
The RT, R and RS's are not the problem. The heavily articulated drive shafts on the GSA and GS regular ( not Lows) are most affected, since the driveshaft angle is so steep on these bikes with 8 to 9 inches of travel in the rear.
You mentioned a link to the moly lube BMW recommends and you use. Can you provide that? Thx.
I use Honda Moly 60 and have used it for a long time.
bmwpartsguy.com/products/final-drive-spline-grease-15grams-enduralast-lube477
I guess the problem isn't nessesary the quality of ths shaft itself as it needs to keep on being replaced, and in the light of the drainage addition I would guess it's about the design and waterproof of the shaft housing and connecions to engine and final gear. I personally own a K600 GT and the design is similar but no recall or service bulletin. But then again, just my personal reflection.
I got my R1200gs drive shaft changed, 3 rd owner for free
The shaft was replaced on my 2019 gs1250 with 19,000km, yes 19,000km 😂 I've sold it since. Didn't they have a previous notification that said they'd replace it after 80,000km? Maybe looking at the data coming in, they saw these were failing very early.
Nothing is free, watch them increase their servicing costs to cover this additional expense. Good news for you, I guess
I have a question outside of this issue. When I switch my ignition on my R1200RT I hear the bike priming itself with a slight hmmmm sound. Now I’m hearing a crackling sound which I believe its the throttle body servo and a lot of BMW R owners have also heard this same noise, but the bike runs just fine. However, I did notice my battery on my bike needs to be replaced as I’m having a hard time cranking the bike over. Could the cracking be tied to the battery needing to be replaced and maybe the throttle body servo not going through their complete cycle ? TY. Will follow. Your channel as it’s great info you provide.
I wonder if maybe the design of the drive shaft in relation to its position on the recalled bikes is different than the new 1300. Perhaps the recall bike puts more pressure on its shaft.
Maybe. Only time will tell.
So what exactly is the LED method?? That was unclear. Is there an LED light/tool or something you're supposed to use to inspect the spines??
I can say 100% but that’s what Im thinking.
@@TheBMWGuy The test is spelled out in detail in two Technical Service Bulletins, which have been in place for quite some time now. The bike must be hooked up to the BMW dealer computer. The rear wheel is removed, and a special hub installed. That hub must then be spun by a specific model of cordless drill. It's a simple pass/fail test, with the result popping up on the dealer computer. If it fails, the driveshaft is replaced, regardless of mileage. The clock then starts ticking from zero again on the 36,000-mile driveshaft replacement interval (it's the shaft mileage, not the bike mileage). These two Technical Service Bulletins (issued to dealers) have been widely available online for a while now. One of the two bulletins was amended back in August, 2024, to add model year 2024 K5x models. When originally issued these bulletins applied to all K5x models, model year 2023 and older. That was changed to model year 2024, and older.
Great information! I like to perform my own maintenance. I have a 2024 R12. Where would I be able to purchase a shop manual? BMW makes it feel like anything other than adding oil to the bike is top secret. I've owned quite a few motorcycles and have always purchased the shop manual when I picked up my new bike.
Thanks man!
Glad you found it useful!
Great explanation! Tks 🎉🎉🎉
Glad it was helpful!
Apparently, the r1300gs needs a driveshaft replacement every 48k miles!
At 1500$ each time. But that might be only once in the bikes life.
Didn’t they have a problem with seals on the R1200RT water pump…it took 4K miles for the seals to bed in.
I don’t think so.
This is going to hurt their sales, Hell My 2011 harley with 125,000 miles and I'm still using the original drive belt... BMW doesn't make cheap units and apperently making cheaper parts to get profits up!! Like all other corporations
The dealer in Indianapolis tells me you get one driveshaft at 36,000 miles after that the cost of a new DS is on the owner. Guess we will see if this changes.
That’s incorrect, new shaft is every 36,000 miles for the lifetime of the vehicle
That's incorrect. BMW has determined that the shaft is a wear item, after calling it a "for life of vehicle" part.
Absolutely incorrect. The dealer will have had, for some time, at least two Technical Service Bulletins spelling out the details. I suggest your dealer might need a remedial reading course.
The 1300 shafts are also regularly replaced but at owners' expense.
At 1500$ each.. that’s pretty aggressive for regular maintenance
@@TheBMWGuy Understatement! 🤣
Yes, but with a 48,000-mile replacement interval, unless it fails the test at one of the 12,000-mile service/test intervals.
Thanks for going into the details. What a great service to the community. BTW i heard from a service manager at BMW that the oild head air head on non LC never had the issue. Was it a different part?
The rear joint on my 1996 R1100gs failed on a trip almost a year ago. Hauled the bike home (500 miles) and replaced it my self. Totally my fault, should have been inspecting it. I have already greased the splines on my 2016 gs with 23000 miles on it.
Something that I have found on my old K1200RS, which has the paralever rear swing-arm, is that the BMW factory service procedure does not even mention aligning the driveshaft u-joints to be in-phase during assembly. There is plenty of ad-hoc information about driveshaft phasing and the problems it can cause if out of phase, but the fact that neither the Factory Service Manual nor the aftermarket service manuals mention this alignment means that there are a lot of driveshafts out there that are misaligned.
Could this be the root cause of these driveshaft failures?
The factory service manual I have does mention the driveshaft phasing for those models. But the newer k5x series only have 1 u-joint rather than 2 so phasing isn’t a problem
@ - really? So there’s only one u-joint at the front end of the shaft then? Didn’t know that.
Edit- I just looked at the parts fiche for an R1250GS (K50) and there are definitely 2 u-joints on the drive shaft. It looks pretty much the same as the one on my K1200RS. What’s even funnier is the picture of the driveshaft in the fiche has the u-joint yokes improperly phased.
IMHO, a possible cause may be that the BMW LC boxer engines are becoming more and more powerful up to date, and they´ve began to compromise the transmission through the weakest point, which are the shaft cardan joints. If they want a more durable shaft drive, they should make it stronger, bigger, and heavier... thus they made a decision: the shaft drive stays as it is now, but it has a limited lifespan.
I´ve own many BMW R bikes, I like the shaft drive, it´s clean, it´s silent... but I don´t think is better than other secundary transmissions. It´s different, that´s all. I traded my 2020 R1250RT for a Yamaha Tracer 9GT+, I´m very happy with the new bike and don´t mind to have a chain to clean and lube again.
I have a BMW R850RT with stock everything but suspension and a rear drive seal, and I´m starting to think that this 27 years old machine is going to bury all those modern R bikes 🤣🤣🤣
They HAD it correct for decades. Maybe it's the higher torque/impact the newer motors give system. It weird that it took them 12 years to "make right" and at only every 36k miles. & 80% price drop. Weird. But at least they own upto it
Probably to retain customers. At some point the BMW guys are going to jump ship to Japanese brands
@TheBMWGuy i think the Boxer engine, while antique, will retain people forever. If Harley can do it with parts falling off... I just learned that the oilhead shafts were rubber bushings! Yup too much vibration/power on newer engines
Did the oil cooled drive shafts not have this issue? It seems like a similar housing and set up. On the 1200 oil cooled.
Nope, they still have the same issues just less frequent
I have seen enough videos of drive shaft failures that I had just ordered some Molly lube just hours before I got the letter. Cancelled the order as I am 2500 miles away from a new drive shaft.
Question. I had it in my mind that the splines were rusting, would freeze up and that the u-joints were the weakest point and that is what broke first. Am I wrong? If the splines remain free at both ends shouldn’t the u-joints last the life of the bike?
Moto Guzzi uses open shaft and the solution was to put a shaft guard around it when it fails. 😓
Strange how its only the water cooled boxer twins , its doubtful that BMW would have fitted a weaker driveshaft to a more powerful twin, compared to the oil/air cooled models ... !!??
Could be a different design that’s flawed. The LC models make far more power than it’s oil cooled counterpart
Hmmm, it's interesting that the 1200 shaft was $1200 at one point.. and now $250 !!
Makes you ask, did BW get a new shitty Chinese supplier?? 🤔
That's a huge difference in price
Or were they profiting 600% on the shafts.
Great vid,, is this just a North American or worldwide ?
should be worldwide
I'll believe this when I see it (the letter, that is). They have not stepped up to the plate for me yet. I have a 2016 R1200RS and while others have been contacted already, us RS owners seem to be second-class citizens. I already have a sour taste in my mouth thanks to BMW. I had better get my letter soon and get my driveshaft replaced. The bike has just over 60k miles on it and the driveshaft is stock.
You should be able to look it up online using your vin number. Your bike is affected by the service bulletin.
Just go to your stealer and book in. They should replace the shaft if you have the klm/ miles.
That is how it has been done I Canada
@@TheBMWGuy See I have known about this for a long time now ... ever since GS and RT owners were reporting that it was being done on their bikes. Way back when this all kicked off for them I went in to two BMW dealers in Houston and asked them about it - one of whom I bought the bike from and the other is my current dealership. They both looked up my VIN and declared "there is nothing in the system for my bike regarding the driveshaft".
Now I *know* the GS and RT guys were getting these letters at that time that stated all K5x bikes were affected / included and which my R1200RS is included model ... yet "nothing was in the system". I doubt that the guys were lying so clearly BMW ineffectively handled the advice to the dealers and the letter mail-outs to the owners. They knew about this problem, all right. They were just screwing around trying to do damage control and trying to weasel out of liability and not calling this a recall. The fact remained the yokes on their universal joints *are not up to the task*.
Another riding buddy of mine had the driveshaft on his RS fail on a trip while he was riding and caused a lot of damage to his engine and transmission, both of which had to be replaced at partial cost to him. And he is a long-time BMW owner and unofficial brand ambassador. The images of his failed yoke are in a video on my channel.
This has been going on for a long time now for the GS and RT owners, and one of my RS buddies reported on Faceplant that he *just got* his letter! 😒
You do not need to wait for a letter. This service campaugn has been underway for quite some time now. The dealer will have had two related Technical Service Bulletins on this issue, one of which was amended in August 2024 (primarily to include model year 2024 K5x models). These Tech Service Bulletins have been widely available online for many months.
@@markmayhew5487 You would think.
However, earlier this year after I saw reports of GS and RT owners getting letters, I went to 2 dealerships and both said "there is nothing in the system" regarding my RS. They should have had two related Technical Service Bulletins on this issue. Because of that nonsense, I decided to "wait" until getting a letter.
BMW USA finally got their act together and I got my letter (with my RS's VIN) on it last week. Now, even if they still have "nothing in the system", I have my letter.
The bike. That is sitting next to you in the vid how many miles has that done I bet it has not had any drive shaft probs
Right, they also make like 20HP and the shaft is in an oil bath.
Here in the UK we got the notification regards this in Spring 2024…. Not sure why you guys in the US are only getting this info. 🤷🏻♂️😎
The service campaign has been underway, in Canada/USA, since at least 2022 (it's detailed in two Service Bulletins issued to dealers). All that's new now is the letter to owners, along with new pages to imsert in the Rider's Manual, with an updated maintenance schedule.
I have a 1983 R80RT. I'm ok. Driveshaft runs in oil. Lasts forever.
Shafts are in an oil bath and the bike makes 5hp. Recipe for reliability, I personally would take an old airhead over any modern BMW.
what about 2004 R1150R driveshafts?
Not affected by this service bulletin. But they do have similar issues, I would recommend greasing the splines every 12k
Not crazy if you have been driven crazy.Moto guzzi no problem. Large Kilometers on Bmw 1200 3 breakdowns because of drive shafts . Last Knocking at Wagga wagga 2023. .$8,500 repair At Tamworth Dealer,BMW assist was great, but didnt cover 4 days in Tamworth due to Country& Western week !!All European motor cycles now looked at Dubiously!
Does anyone know the part number or have a link to the BMW grease mentioned in the video?
Molykote paste with 60% Molybdenum sulfide, at least. Usually called Spline lube.
@@feloniousmonk3049 Thank you.
Did you say R1150GS? Hehehe I wish!
Haha, but those are also plagued with driveshaft and rear drive issues. Maybe BMW will get there act together with the 2025 models. Only time will tell
Yup! 90K on mine and so far so good!
Bearing in mind the KTM debacle (big cam problems denied for years), I think BMW are avoiding bankruptcy unlike KTM.
Meanwhile the Japanese brands are basically maintenance free.
@TheBMWGuy oh they've had their share of chocolate cams I can assure you. VFR750 and CX500 for example.
I have a 1997 R1100RS with over 200,000 kms and no issue as yet with the drive,to me this is going backwards and sounds absolutely ridiculous.
Those are plagued with rear drive issues
New sub here👍🏾👍🏾
I have a 2006 1200 rt with 180000 km on it with the original drive shaft. Should I be worried. I put the bike on the centre stand and check the play in the wheel side to side and forward and back and it feels rock solid so I’m guessing it’s ok. Any thoughts anyone??
The good news is that BMW will now pay to replace every drive shaft at 36000 miles. The bad news is all new BMW motorcycles will be chain drive! (or maybe that's more good news, it's all very confusing.🤪)
The r1300 is shaft driven. I can’t see them moving to a chain driven boxer engine.
@@TheBMWGuy I guess humor (sarcasm) doesn't cross the web like it used to.
I have an 2005 GS 1200, I'm ok.
Solid bike, they have there own issues but don’t they all. I had a 2009 R1200GS at one point in time.
R1300 drive shaft replacement is every 50k miles at the owners expense
At 1500$ each time. Maybe they are using the 1300 to recoup cost from the previous models.
It's actually every 48,000 miles for the 1300's.
@@markmayhew5487 That makes all the difference. 🤣
Why would I ask you any questions when they're just your thoughts? I will contact my dealership and get it for real. Geez
225$$ obviously still making a profit on this Quality item.🤣🤣🤣
haha "Quality"
After 20 years of Bmw along with other brands, the driveshafts are what made me Dump Bmw ..never understood why people stay with BMW ..if maintenance is any consideration
thats why im here, help you guys maintain your bikes
New driveshaft on the 1300 is shorter. You either talk SHIT or are being threated like SHIT in the US! The was no recall in Germany, only a 'servicebulletin' if you ever showed up at a dealer. I do my own maintainance. I replaced my driveshaft 2 weeks ago myself in Germany, because I live an hour drive from the dealer, I couldn't be bother going there. I payed 149.99 Euro at a European BMW online parts dealer for a new driveshaft. My old one- original 2014- had 0 rust and 97K kilometers and was only regreased at 64K kilometers. Now the bearings were getting bad, which caused a light vibration. It's a bit of a fiddeling job, but you don't even need to get the oil out of the end drive. only need to heat up some bolts. to loosen the 'loctite-glue'. No need to drill holes in the rear fork, because that will only allow water to get in. BMW does not step up on the 1300. There they schedule for inspection regularly, but a 60K Kilometer for replacement is for your own pocket. Of course they can update...but bigger bearings means bigger driveshaft. Nobody wants that.
There is NO recall. It's a "service campaign", and it's been going on for quite some time. I had the driveshaft on my 2015 R1200 GSA replaced back in 2022, as part of this campaign.
This isn't new to me, I had the drive shaft replaced during a regular service for free over a year ago on my 2018 GS1200 in California
I was looking at an rt… inth8nj I’ll go back to an fjr. Even if it’s paid for… there’s a total inconvenience with this. Maybe they need to offer a free pickup and drop off in that.
I have a question outside of this issue. When I switch my ignition on my R1200RT I hear the bike priming itself with a slight hmmmm sound. Now I’m hearing a crackling sound which I believe its the throttle body servo and a lot of BMW R owners have also heard this same noise, but the bike runs just fine. However, I did notice my battery on my bike needs to be replaced as I’m having a hard time cranking the bike over. Could the cracking be tied to the battery needing to be replaced and maybe the throttle body servo not going through their complete cycle ? TY. Will follow. Your channel as it’s great info you provide.