I was the second owner of this bike in 2001. If it makes you feel better, it was corroding then, especially the fasteners around the engine. I had it for 18 months and swapped it for an R1100RT as it has ABS. I bought it from Hugheden M40 BMW. It's been to the South of France with me. Nice bike for a first "big" bike. I ended up with a K1200LT, but BM's are way to heavy for me at 63 and with a bad back, so I have smaller Hondas these days. David
Wow thats so cool, thanks for letting me know...its also been on the Elephant rally as well I hear. I do like it but something amiss with the fuelling which fustrates me a lot...if that could be sorted then ill be much happier....I got it for £1700 but had no service history or even owners manual...I think it may have been a winter hack....I just cant make up my mind if i should keep it or not.
Definitely worth doing what you can yourself. Mechanics aren’t cheap. The only bike I have had serviced by the dealership was the z900rs, in order to keep the service history up to date. But in the end, it wasn’t worth any more than if I had done it myself. Just a selling point I suppose. Beemer is looking great 👌🏼
Yes I agree, I think its a way of pulling dealers in and getting after sales work, infact thats where the money is for them. Those gopro colours work great ,and when i was editing i saw it lifted the bike right up with no sign of dust....Ideal. Your more than capable of servicing your own bikes I have no doubt. I only do my own because I know most of mine are keepers much like your self really. Cheer SB
This Beemer is one lucky bike . You've saved it from potentially entering the gates of a wreckers yard . Great work ER . As an owner of a 2013 LC GS ,I believe they have become too complicated ,even more so now,and true reliability is not what it should be given their high purchase price..
I agree, I don't feel comfortable with a bike that will break and I would have no idea where to start to fix it. These days bikes are just packed with electronics it blows my mind instead of enjoying the ride. Cheers mate
Nobody wants a sticky piston or a weeping nut. Joking aside, for a 21 year old bike and what you paid for it, you’ve only really had to change the consumables. I’ve got a bit of a thing for the old boxers. Never used to. I must be getting old 😊
I am just getting into maintaining my own bikes. I own the W800 Cafe and the Concours and do oil changes. Add in limited mods as I don't get into that. Rather spend money on my gear. Had a R1150RT prior and loved the bike , but got fat in a marriage with a woman with 3 kids. That's done and now 49, want to learn mechanics and maintain my vehicles as I own my 2000 Dodge Dakota with 209,000 miles. Owned since new and paid to keep it going. Nice video! Excellent
Thanks Andy, Yes I know what you mean mate....How many times have you serviced something and thought "I should be doing other things" Ha, Yes beemer looks good thanks Andy, Go pro colours got rid of all the dust
@@exeterrider I did it myself! It wasn’t as bad as I thought.. considering you’ve messed with the final drive you’ve already gotten comfortable with those damn paralever bolts.. “The BMW Guy” has a great video here on RUclips.. took me a month but it’s not as daunting as it seems
I ride a ‘96 R1100RT, love these old Oilheads! I do all my own spannering too, it’s the only way to go. Mine is a bit more effort to undress with all the Tupperware but I do quite a few miles in all weathers so appreciate the fairing in the winter. Next job on mine is braided brake lines and new rear shock, the bush at the top of mine has wallowed and has a load of play in it. Amazingly it’s the original stock unit at 120,000 miles and still has functional damping, so I can’t complain too much!!
@@exeterrider I can imagine that would be something of a PITA…I’ve read a lot about the surging issues that some of them have, is it related to that? Mine had the cat code plug removed at some point which I gather is a fairly common mod for the lean fuelling condition, but I know a lot of people swear by the John Gemi fuelling map chip. Others I know have bought matched upgraded injectors from Tills in Germany which apparently are transformative too. I haven’t done any of that but intend to eventually, as preventative maintenance more than anything. I’m sure my injectors are tired after 120k+!
BMW looks fabulous. What a great bike. A bargain at that price. Long may you enjoy it. My 1988 BMW K75 was a rescue project that had been off the road for at least 7 years. Had it since 2008. Fuel pumps are noisy. Ignore it! I use fully synthetic oil on mine. Usually Mobil 1. I reckon my vehicles are worth having the best oil. I continue to use mine for anything and everything, from going to the local supermarket to going to the Sahara desert in Morocco (twice). Also done a couple of 4,000 km trips in Spain and France two up. Even did trackdays on it at Jerez, Spain. Just a great versatile bike. I'm sure yours is the same.
One of the most inspirational posts ever that neal. Yes I love it...... But anyways worries its going to let me down. I know they are reliable but puts me on edge tbh. Although the video makes it look good, it's quite rusty in places. I want to change the throttle cable for piece of mind soon. Looks a pain to get the splitter box out though. Thanks Neale👍
Great to see that your R850R is still going strong. I've had my later model 2004 R850R (similar to R1150R) for 13 years and I wouldn't change it for a modern Hexhead BMW. It was built to a better quality standard - no flaking paint or fancy electronics to go wrong, and simple to service at home. What more do you need? 😄
I couldn't agree more Hoppo. I looked at a mint R1150 last week which was VERY tempting but the servo brakes scare me a little. not sure if you have had any issues with them? Thanks
@@exeterrider My EVO servo brakes are still OK, but they get the fluid changed every 2 years without fail. If the system does go faulty it's relatively straightforward to remove the ABS unit and convert the brakes to a conventional system. The parts are available from Motorworks for approx. £90. If you do think about the R1150, ask for proof of regular brake fluid services. 👍
Definitely worth getting to know how to work your bike. These do have a great deal of charm and character to them and I'm not afraid to say I do envy you having this bike. Great engineering from the time before the accountants took over.
At least you know how to do a lot of your own servicing. I'm sure you have saved yourself loads of money!! Also you are right, Honda parts and service isn't cheap anymore. Keep an eye on that brake line, you don't want fluid in your tire. Good video Exeter!!
Absolutely! and you know what my luck is like. I wouldn't adjust the valves on your bike. getting the panels off would be tricky. but perhaps the oil changes would be easy enough. Thanks Kode
If you do all your own servicing on this and other vehicles I would strongly urge you to buy a pneumatic oil extractor it's so much easier, especially if you inadvertently overfill the engine and so much cleaner. I was sceptical prior to buying one but I've used it so much. You can either draw everything out using the device or draw everything then remove the sump plug to let it drip drain overnight. Removing the plug isnt messy doing it this way as there are only drips left inside, again much easier and cleaner with all the extracted oil in the container ready to drop into the tip recycle tank.
Good video mate, I'd agree that if anyone fancies having a go at even the most basics tasks then they should. I dread to think what even a simple oil/filter change would cost at a main dealer these days! Granted the dear ol'boxer is easier than most to work on though. It was nice to have a look all round yours and hear what you've done to it. I have to say that if I was in the market for a road bike one of those would be high on the list, tidy machine! What's that beside the seat on the back? Looks like a thermos flask holder? 🤔 😀
Thanks Ken, Haven't you heard about the famous flask holder! It's famous since the first Saddlebags73 rideout😎😂 Blimming handy though. It's a lump compared to your bike but as you know ...so well made. I love it. Took me ages to sort the air,fuel mixture screws....I have some Frisk plugs to put in soon, with the 4 electrodes on. They have meant to work wonders. Flask holders can be bought for £185 but they are now on special at just £182.47 next week if your interested in one get in contact . Thanks mate
@@exeterrider no the flask holder is a new one on me, but then i'm quite a newbie to your channel😁 I feel your pain with balancing the mixtures, many times i've set it then come home to find the tickover has gone to hell again! 🙄 I'd be interested to hear whether the plugs make any difference, you hear so much about these sort of things but you never know whether it's really an improvement or just 'snake oil' Thanks for the flask holder 'special' but i'll hold off for now, maybe i'll get one from santa!! 🤣🤣🤣
If you are working on the brakes buy a cheap break bleeding kit which sucks the fluid through the system rather than you waiting an age to get the air out, it's also a lot cleaner.
I always do my own servicing and repairs but I’m a retired mechanic. Blew out my warranty on a Pan Euro 1300 to do it myself but the bikes are bulletproof. Lost £600 on a trade in after 6 years due to no service history so saved a whole lot of money over all. Headlight tip, there should be an arrow cast into the headlight glass. This should point towards the kerb unless it has a double headed arrow like your NC750 which means it has a flat beam and is suitable here and on the continent. Keep up the good work😊
@@exeterrider Brake calliper tip, pistons can regularly get seized in callipers due to water and crud build up. When servicing your bike just remove and clean the brake pads. While the pads are out carefully squeeze the brake to push the pistons out a little further. I then use a boot lace soaked in brake cleaner and wrap it around each piston then work it back and forth to clean off any crud build up. When they’re nice and shiney put a light coat of silicon based brake callipers grease on the shiney surfaces then ease them back into the callipers before replacing the pads. Don’t forget to apply the brake finally to bring the pads back into contact with the disc. This will keep your brakes operating nicely. I don’t want to teach anyone to suck eggs, but if anyone finds these tips useful I’m happy to post them.
Just my perspective I had r1100r and had persistent brake issues( seizing/air/split lines) despite having the servo removed professionally. I sold it in the end shame as loved the machine itself. Tbh only ever cruised at 80 if the 850 will do that dont change
funny you say that, I saw a 1150R for sale with 12k on the clock, 02 plate. minter! But after speaking to someone in the know he told me all about the issues with the servo, he had the same issue and what should have been an easy fix it was a Knightmare so put me off! I liked the thought of having a minter, 6 speed instead of 5, but more power etc but it could have been a headache, such a shame when the bike is amazing to ride when running. Yeap mine will cruise at 75, but I wish I had another cog.
Beginning: excellent dashboard arrangement on this bike. I had an R1100GS for 14 years and 91,000 miles: 1996 to 2010. When I sold it at 95,000 miles it was running just like it had at 4,000. But like so many 1100s of 1994, '95, '96 vintage, my gearbox bearings went around 50,000 miles. Other than that it was a fantastic bike. I ran my GS on 20W50 mineral oil. I'd like to buy an RNineT Urban G/S, but they cost too much in Thailand, so I'm probably going to get a Yamaha XSR700.
I did'nt know about the bearigs, I hope they sorted that by the time it got to m 98 model. Thanks for heads up on that! Yes I have ridden the urban GS. I like it but for the price of it I want some that does more for that money.. Thanks
A very enjoable video my friend. The bike looks great and I think that in your hands it is safe, you will take care of it like one should. I may have missed it... what oil did you go for? This one has an analog clock on the dash. Does it work? Thanks for the answers. Cheers. Gregor
Hi Gregor, yes the clock works very well. It's a really nice dash. I think I went for 10 /40 in the end but can't rememebr too well....You sound like you want one!?!?
After doing some research I found out that also 15/50 goes very well with it. You are right, I like it very much. Will see how things will be... thanks bro.
Great advice mate. I did that with mine but that's (with a combination of others things ) where it all started to go wrong. I think it felt good on minerel though I must admit, 👆👍
Well done learning how to maintain the bike, don’t forget about the air filter and the spark plugs. What was the problem with the headlight and how was that resolved?
I forgot to mention I fitted new plugs, Infact I have a set of Frisk 4 electrode plugs to fit which is meant to work wonders with these bikes. In the end I just pulled the tape off and left it as is. Strange one because its not been flagged before. Thanks Stuart
@@exeterrider yep, the tedius TDM my dad built from the ground up, and the Deauville has been stripped down more times than I care to count 🤣 Gotta stay on top of that maintenance! 🔧
You make me sick 🤮 standing in front of an almost mint bike saying "you'll have to forgive the state of the bike" WTF just stop it 🤬 Great video BTW, agreed with everything you said, it's good to encourage people to work to a greater or lesser extent on their bikes. 👍I also often have things not going to plan on the simplest of jobs, although I would never admit to it. 🤫😜
Ha, it's the Go Pro colours that hid a lot on this video, It was very dusty ....about the only thing go pros are good for. Yeap we have all had our bikes in bits and felt that doom when things don't go right. Been there so many times...!
So I see Tom, You have done a great job on your bike. Give me 230V AC in a house over 12V DC anyday. Electrics on bike scare me too even if the Beemer is simple ....So am I when bike electrics come into it for me😂
@@exeterrider cheers man, I must admit i do put off jobs. I worry that if I break something then I won't have a bike to ride. So I tend to allow for a whole weekend even for simple jobs. My main concern with electrics is having to solder stuff, but I found these cool little self soldering connectors which make life easier
Hello from France , beautiful this amazing bmw! :) question: I'm interested in buying a used model from 1998 but I'm a little afraid of the lack of a fuel gauge and an odometer, there is no other button or switch? ... there's really only the indicator reserve on this bike? Or did I look wrong?
Well done, ER, you've saved yourself a whole bunch of shekels by doing your own servicing. I service my bike where possible the next jobs being changing the coolant and the air filter. Unfortunately, I've got a lot of panelling to remove to get those jobs done. At 24000 miles the valves will next checking which, with the VTEC valves, will be a dealer job and a big hole in the bank balance.
If I wasn't mechanical minded I don't think I would have bought this bike TBH Jim. Toorisky and could have spent too much on the thing if I had to take it to a garage. Panelling is always teh pain in the arse of any bike job. I have heard the valves are a sucker on the V-tecs ,I have also heard that they are better left alone and are unlikely to need much adjustment even after 50k. You may be better off doing it yourself if you can, getting to it is the issue isn't it. Cheers
@@exeterrider I've heard that the valves stay pretty much in spec as well, ER. Checking them would be a pain but entirely possible whereas removing the camshafts to get at the shims would be impossible without the proper tools. Apparently it's a £750+ job at the dealers and then you can't be sure they even did the job without checking the clearances yourself before and after.
Exactly Jim, for such a job I would not trust them. And with it being so fidly your bike may become a apprentice learning curve...I said thanks for the coffee on the site...not sure if it reached you but thanks again. my round first next time : )
Great video thank you. I'm about to bleed my r850rt and I can't see a bleeding screw on the front right caliper. Someone said to buy mt10x 25 bleeding valve!! Do I remove the knob (kind of screw) and replace with this mt10x 25, do the bleeding and keep that permanently there. Do you know? Many thanks and your answer or anyone here will be very appreciated.
Hi there is only one on the left which is a big black screw thing. I unscrewed the whole thing. Do one at a time, left them right side.... Hope that makes sense 👍🍻
@@exeterriderthanks again mate. Apparently it's just some bleeding screw with a nipple !! After the bleeding I just gonna leave it there I guess instead of the screw thing. Thanks again, I really appreciate your help.
@@kamiilmane336 all part of the service and thanks for watching my video. It made a HUGE difference to my bike bleeding front and rear, goodluck mate 👍🍻
You realize you can’t let the bike go now? You’re too attached. That’s the problem with delving too deeply in maintenance. I’ve tried to remain aloof with my bikes. That attitude worked until I retired and couldn’t afford to pay for simple work anymore. I’m just stuck with the bikes I have now. Can’t allow someone else to touch them.
I've never looked at tit that way before but thats so true! That is exactly how I feel about my bikes, even though I want to change the beemer for one in better condition.
![Gunna - HIM ALL ALONG [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/w7Wf0h1Q8a4/mqdefault.jpg)
I was the second owner of this bike in 2001. If it makes you feel better, it was corroding then, especially the fasteners around the engine. I had it for 18 months and swapped it for an R1100RT as it has ABS. I bought it from Hugheden M40 BMW. It's been to the South of France with me. Nice bike for a first "big" bike. I ended up with a K1200LT, but BM's are way to heavy for me at 63 and with a bad back, so I have smaller Hondas these days. David
Wow thats so cool, thanks for letting me know...its also been on the Elephant rally as well I hear. I do like it but something amiss with the fuelling which fustrates me a lot...if that could be sorted then ill be much happier....I got it for £1700 but had no service history or even owners manual...I think it may have been a winter hack....I just cant make up my mind if i should keep it or not.
Definitely worth doing what you can yourself. Mechanics aren’t cheap.
The only bike I have had serviced by the dealership was the z900rs, in order to keep the service history up to date. But in the end, it wasn’t worth any more than if I had done it myself. Just a selling point I suppose.
Beemer is looking great 👌🏼
Yes I agree, I think its a way of pulling dealers in and getting after sales work, infact thats where the money is for them. Those gopro colours work great ,and when i was editing i saw it lifted the bike right up with no sign of dust....Ideal. Your more than capable of servicing your own bikes I have no doubt. I only do my own because I know most of mine are keepers much like your self really. Cheer SB
"when i go home, i just look at the boxer engine...". lol. great engines
I know what you mean, I feel the same....something about em : )
This Beemer is one lucky bike . You've saved it from potentially entering the gates of a wreckers yard . Great work ER . As an owner of a 2013 LC GS ,I believe they have become too complicated ,even more so now,and true reliability is not what it should be given their high purchase price..
I agree, I don't feel comfortable with a bike that will break and I would have no idea where to start to fix it. These days bikes are just packed with electronics it blows my mind instead of enjoying the ride. Cheers mate
Cool video iv just got a 98 bmw r1100rt so this has helped big time. Thank you .
Thats awesome Aaron, I'd love to see it, especially with it being a 98. Sounds lovely!
Great to see the BMW again, I really like this bike.
You and me both!😎
Nobody wants a sticky piston or a weeping nut. Joking aside, for a 21 year old bike and what you paid for it, you’ve only really had to change the consumables. I’ve got a bit of a thing for the old boxers. Never used to. I must be getting old 😊
When the boxer gets in your blood you have had it. Yes I like all boxer engines too. New and old. Lovely bikes to ride. Cheers EMA
I am just getting into maintaining my own bikes. I own the W800 Cafe and the Concours and do oil changes. Add in limited mods as I don't get into that. Rather spend money on my gear. Had a R1150RT prior and loved the bike , but got fat in a marriage with a woman with 3 kids. That's done and now 49, want to learn mechanics and maintain my vehicles as I own my 2000 Dodge Dakota with 209,000 miles. Owned since new and paid to keep it going. Nice video! Excellent
209k! Wow. That's done milage. I think it's good to try and do things your self as much as possible. Thanks 👍
Im just to old and lazy to my own servicing years ago i done my cars and bikes myself but no more ..BMW looking great mate .
Thanks Andy, Yes I know what you mean mate....How many times have you serviced something and thought "I should be doing other things" Ha, Yes beemer looks good thanks Andy, Go pro colours got rid of all the dust
Bought one like this. Changed the clutch so far. Loads more work to be done.
I still don't have mine how I want it to be but not sure I ever will tbh.
Did you change the clutch your self? Big job that is!
@@exeterrider I did it myself! It wasn’t as bad as I thought.. considering you’ve messed with the final drive you’ve already gotten comfortable with those damn paralever bolts.. “The BMW Guy” has a great video here on RUclips.. took me a month but it’s not as daunting as it seems
I ride a ‘96 R1100RT, love these old Oilheads! I do all my own spannering too, it’s the only way to go. Mine is a bit more effort to undress with all the Tupperware but I do quite a few miles in all weathers so appreciate the fairing in the winter. Next job on mine is braided brake lines and new rear shock, the bush at the top of mine has wallowed and has a load of play in it. Amazingly it’s the original stock unit at 120,000 miles and still has functional damping, so I can’t complain too much!!
They are awesome ,I love mine but there is a underlying issue with fuelling which is casting a cloud for me sadly
@@exeterrider I can imagine that would be something of a PITA…I’ve read a lot about the surging issues that some of them have, is it related to that? Mine had the cat code plug removed at some point which I gather is a fairly common mod for the lean fuelling condition, but I know a lot of people swear by the John Gemi fuelling map chip. Others I know have bought matched upgraded injectors from Tills in Germany which apparently are transformative too. I haven’t done any of that but intend to eventually, as preventative maintenance more than anything. I’m sure my injectors are tired after 120k+!
BMW looks fabulous. What a great bike. A bargain at that price. Long may you enjoy it.
My 1988 BMW K75 was a rescue project that had been off the road for at least 7 years. Had it since 2008. Fuel pumps are noisy. Ignore it! I use fully synthetic oil on mine. Usually Mobil 1. I reckon my vehicles are worth having the best oil. I continue to use mine for anything and everything, from going to the local supermarket to going to the Sahara desert in Morocco (twice). Also done a couple of 4,000 km trips in Spain and France two up. Even did trackdays on it at Jerez, Spain. Just a great versatile bike. I'm sure yours is the same.
One of the most inspirational posts ever that neal. Yes I love it...... But anyways worries its going to let me down. I know they are reliable but puts me on edge tbh.
Although the video makes it look good, it's quite rusty in places.
I want to change the throttle cable for piece of mind soon. Looks a pain to get the splitter box out though. Thanks Neale👍
Great to see that your R850R is still going strong. I've had my later model 2004 R850R (similar to R1150R) for 13 years and I wouldn't change it for a modern Hexhead BMW. It was built to a better quality standard - no flaking paint or fancy electronics to go wrong, and simple to service at home. What more do you need? 😄
I couldn't agree more Hoppo. I looked at a mint R1150 last week which was VERY tempting but the servo brakes scare me a little. not sure if you have had any issues with them? Thanks
@@exeterrider My EVO servo brakes are still OK, but they get the fluid changed every 2 years without fail. If the system does go faulty it's relatively straightforward to remove the ABS unit and convert the brakes to a conventional system. The parts are available from Motorworks for approx. £90. If you do think about the R1150, ask for proof of regular brake fluid services. 👍
@@Mieke3133 good advice thanks, I'm still very tempted 👍
Definitely worth getting to know how to work your bike. These do have a great deal of charm and character to them and I'm not afraid to say I do envy you having this bike. Great engineering from the time before the accountants took over.
Yes, they were made so well back then. Even the cylinders are machined from Titanium. Although its a bit of a lump, I wouldn't change it.
At least you know how to do a lot of your own servicing. I'm sure you have saved yourself loads of money!!
Also you are right, Honda parts and service isn't cheap anymore.
Keep an eye on that brake line, you don't want fluid in your tire.
Good video Exeter!!
Absolutely! and you know what my luck is like. I wouldn't adjust the valves on your bike. getting the panels off would be tricky. but perhaps the oil changes would be easy enough. Thanks Kode
If you do all your own servicing on this and other vehicles I would strongly urge you to buy a pneumatic oil extractor it's so much easier, especially if you inadvertently overfill the engine and so much cleaner.
I was sceptical prior to buying one but I've used it so much.
You can either draw everything out using the device or draw everything then remove the sump plug to let it drip drain overnight. Removing the plug isnt messy doing it this way as there are only drips left inside, again much easier and cleaner with all the extracted oil in the container ready to drop into the tip recycle tank.
I must admit , I have never heard of one of those....Ill have to look it up. thanks for the heads up!
Your bike looks quite clean to me.
Gopro colours help a lot and hides the dust, I thought the same when I was editing it : )
Good video mate, I'd agree that if anyone fancies having a go at even the most basics tasks then they should. I dread to think what even a simple oil/filter change would cost at a main dealer these days! Granted the dear ol'boxer is easier than most to work on though. It was nice to have a look all round yours and hear what you've done to it. I have to say that if I was in the market for a road bike one of those would be high on the list, tidy machine! What's that beside the seat on the back? Looks like a thermos flask holder? 🤔 😀
Thanks Ken, Haven't you heard about the famous flask holder! It's famous since the first Saddlebags73 rideout😎😂 Blimming handy though. It's a lump compared to your bike but as you know ...so well made. I love it. Took me ages to sort the air,fuel mixture screws....I have some Frisk plugs to put in soon, with the 4 electrodes on. They have meant to work wonders. Flask holders can be bought for £185 but they are now on special at just £182.47 next week if your interested in one get in contact . Thanks mate
@@exeterrider no the flask holder is a new one on me, but then i'm quite a newbie to your channel😁 I feel your pain with balancing the mixtures, many times i've set it then come home to find the tickover has gone to hell again! 🙄 I'd be interested to hear whether the plugs make any difference, you hear so much about these sort of things but you never know whether it's really an improvement or just 'snake oil' Thanks for the flask holder 'special' but i'll hold off for now, maybe i'll get one from santa!! 🤣🤣🤣
If you are working on the brakes buy a cheap break bleeding kit which sucks the fluid through the system rather than you waiting an age to get the air out, it's also a lot cleaner.
Good advice...I did look into one but went for the cheapo option.
I always do my own servicing and repairs but I’m a retired mechanic. Blew out my warranty on a Pan Euro 1300 to do it myself but the bikes are bulletproof. Lost £600 on a trade in after 6 years due to no service history so saved a whole lot of money over all. Headlight tip, there should be an arrow cast into the headlight glass. This should point towards the kerb unless it has a double headed arrow like your NC750 which means it has a flat beam and is suitable here and on the continent. Keep up the good work😊
Thanks Steve I never knew that. I will check that soon.As you say you were still quids in doing your own work on the bike. Thank you
@@exeterrider Brake calliper tip, pistons can regularly get seized in callipers due to water and crud build up. When servicing your bike just remove and clean the brake pads. While the pads are out carefully squeeze the brake to push the pistons out a little further. I then use a boot lace soaked in brake cleaner and wrap it around each piston then work it back and forth to clean off any crud build up. When they’re nice and shiney put a light coat of silicon based brake callipers grease on the shiney surfaces then ease them back into the callipers before replacing the pads. Don’t forget to apply the brake finally to bring the pads back into contact with the disc. This will keep your brakes operating nicely. I don’t want to teach anyone to suck eggs, but if anyone finds these tips useful I’m happy to post them.
@@stevethorndale231 not at all Steve, that's good advice, and makes a lot of sense thanks 👍🍻
@@exeterrider I really enjoy your channel ER, and I now ride and enjoy a 2018 NC750X DCT thanks to your review when you bought yours.
@@stevethorndale231 🙏👍
You done a good job there. I always service my own bikes but that's because I'm cheap.
I'm cheap too, save money for fuel and new toys!
Just my perspective I had r1100r and had persistent brake issues( seizing/air/split lines) despite having the servo removed professionally. I sold it in the end shame as loved the machine itself. Tbh only ever cruised at 80 if the 850 will do that dont change
funny you say that, I saw a 1150R for sale with 12k on the clock, 02 plate. minter! But after speaking to someone in the know he told me all about the issues with the servo, he had the same issue and what should have been an easy fix it was a Knightmare so put me off! I liked the thought of having a minter, 6 speed instead of 5, but more power etc but it could have been a headache, such a shame when the bike is amazing to ride when running. Yeap mine will cruise at 75, but I wish I had another cog.
Another fascinating video. Could you maybe over the winter, do one about what you need for a tool kit to do your own servicing?
Thats a really good idea Lilly, its on the list!!
Beginning: excellent dashboard arrangement on this bike. I had an R1100GS for 14 years and 91,000 miles: 1996 to 2010. When I sold it at 95,000 miles it was running just like it had at 4,000. But like so many 1100s of 1994, '95, '96 vintage, my gearbox bearings went around 50,000 miles. Other than that it was a fantastic bike. I ran my GS on 20W50 mineral oil. I'd like to buy an RNineT Urban G/S, but they cost too much in Thailand, so I'm probably going to get a Yamaha XSR700.
I did'nt know about the bearigs, I hope they sorted that by the time it got to m 98 model. Thanks for heads up on that! Yes I have ridden the urban GS. I like it but for the price of it I want some that does more for that money.. Thanks
@@exeterrider By '98, the problem was sorted out. You've nothing to worry about.
Phew!!
Great video. What a looks, still to this day.
Thanks 😊👍🍻
@@exeterrider My rt looks a bit outdated as well as gs and rs (same engine), but this classic r look just never disappoints.
@@MarkoMarcello 100% with you on that.
A very enjoable video my friend. The bike looks great and I think that in your hands it is safe, you will take care of it like one should. I may have missed it... what oil did you go for? This one has an analog clock on the dash. Does it work? Thanks for the answers. Cheers. Gregor
Hi Gregor, yes the clock works very well. It's a really nice dash. I think I went for 10 /40 in the end but can't rememebr too well....You sound like you want one!?!?
After doing some research I found out that also 15/50 goes very well with it. You are right, I like it very much. Will see how things will be... thanks bro.
1150 boxer fan here👋 I've got 2🙄 I've read in a few places they like mineral oil to help the various oil seals 🛢️🤔
Great advice mate. I did that with mine but that's (with a combination of others things ) where it all started to go wrong. I think it felt good on minerel though I must admit,
👆👍
Nice bike. Looks brand new. I got a 1999 R850R. I like the hand shields, do you know if yours are original or from another supplier? Thank you.
I think they are OEM but not sure...its a goodlooking bike but don't look too close! ha!
Well done learning how to maintain the bike, don’t forget about the air filter and the spark plugs.
What was the problem with the headlight and how was that resolved?
I forgot to mention I fitted new plugs, Infact I have a set of Frisk 4 electrode plugs to fit which is meant to work wonders with these bikes. In the end I just pulled the tape off and left it as is. Strange one because its not been flagged before. Thanks Stuart
P.S, the air filter was the only thing that was clean on the bike, so all good there
@@exeterrider iridium plugs work well on these
@@exeterrider what was your mileage between the MOTs?
@@stustustustustu Not a lot, 1200 at a guess, somewhere around there
Only time our bikes go to the garage is for a mot, even do our own tire changes! 😄
I'm impressed Pooley!
@@exeterrider yep, the tedius TDM my dad built from the ground up, and the Deauville has been stripped down more times than I care to count 🤣
Gotta stay on top of that maintenance! 🔧
You make me sick 🤮 standing in front of an almost mint bike saying "you'll have to forgive the state of the bike" WTF just stop it 🤬
Great video BTW, agreed with everything you said, it's good to encourage people to work to a greater or lesser extent on their bikes. 👍I also often have things not going to plan on the simplest of jobs, although I would never admit to it. 🤫😜
Ha, it's the Go Pro colours that hid a lot on this video, It was very dusty ....about the only thing go pros are good for. Yeap we have all had our bikes in bits and felt that doom when things don't go right. Been there so many times...!
Solid bike!
I do most stuff myself, no good with electrics though.
So I see Tom, You have done a great job on your bike. Give me 230V AC in a house over 12V DC anyday. Electrics on bike scare me too even if the Beemer is simple ....So am I when bike electrics come into it for me😂
@@exeterrider cheers man, I must admit i do put off jobs. I worry that if I break something then I won't have a bike to ride. So I tend to allow for a whole weekend even for simple jobs.
My main concern with electrics is having to solder stuff, but I found these cool little self soldering connectors which make life easier
Never heard of them but I like the sound of that!
@@exeterrider I tried to post a comment with a link but it wont let me
Insta the link and I'll post. It's a RUclips thing bud
Hello from France , beautiful this amazing bmw! :) question: I'm interested in buying a used model from 1998 but I'm a little afraid of the lack of a fuel gauge and an odometer, there is no other button or switch? ... there's really only the indicator reserve on this bike? Or did I look wrong?
Hi yes there is a yellow light that comes in when you have 205miles or so left on the tank. It bugs me a little bit you get used to it 😉👍
Motoroil=3.750l whit filter.
Gearbox=0.870l
Cardan oil 0.140l
Well done, ER, you've saved yourself a whole bunch of shekels by doing your own servicing.
I service my bike where possible the next jobs being changing the coolant and the air filter. Unfortunately, I've got a lot of panelling to remove to get those jobs done.
At 24000 miles the valves will next checking which, with the VTEC valves, will be a dealer job and a big hole in the bank balance.
If I wasn't mechanical minded I don't think I would have bought this bike TBH Jim. Toorisky and could have spent too much on the thing if I had to take it to a garage. Panelling is always teh pain in the arse of any bike job. I have heard the valves are a sucker on the V-tecs ,I have also heard that they are better left alone and are unlikely to need much adjustment even after 50k. You may be better off doing it yourself if you can, getting to it is the issue isn't it. Cheers
@@exeterrider I've heard that the valves stay pretty much in spec as well, ER. Checking them would be a pain but entirely possible whereas removing the camshafts to get at the shims would be impossible without the proper tools. Apparently it's a £750+ job at the dealers and then you can't be sure they even did the job without checking the clearances yourself before and after.
Exactly Jim, for such a job I would not trust them. And with it being so fidly your bike may become a apprentice learning curve...I said thanks for the coffee on the site...not sure if it reached you but thanks again. my round first next time : )
Great video thank you. I'm about to bleed my r850rt and I can't see a bleeding screw on the front right caliper. Someone said to buy mt10x 25 bleeding valve!! Do I remove the knob (kind of screw) and replace with this mt10x 25, do the bleeding and keep that permanently there. Do you know? Many thanks and your answer or anyone here will be very appreciated.
Hi there is only one on the left which is a big black screw thing. I unscrewed the whole thing. Do one at a time, left them right side.... Hope that makes sense 👍🍻
@@exeterrider awesome, thanks mate, then leave this mt10x there permanently? Thanks
@@kamiilmane336 not sure what a mt10x is but I just removed and replaced that part and all was fine 👍🍻
@@exeterriderthanks again mate. Apparently it's just some bleeding screw with a nipple !! After the bleeding I just gonna leave it there I guess instead of the screw thing. Thanks again, I really appreciate your help.
@@kamiilmane336 all part of the service and thanks for watching my video. It made a HUGE difference to my bike bleeding front and rear, goodluck mate 👍🍻
Hai, what's the black pipe on the richt side after
Oil pipe
You realize you can’t let the bike go now? You’re too attached. That’s the problem with delving too deeply in maintenance. I’ve tried to remain aloof with my bikes. That attitude worked until I retired and couldn’t afford to pay for simple work anymore. I’m just stuck with the bikes I have now. Can’t allow someone else to touch them.
I've never looked at tit that way before but thats so true! That is exactly how I feel about my bikes, even though I want to change the beemer for one in better condition.
Still liking the 850R or have you found something you like more?
1250R of I had the money 💰💰
@@exeterrider insurance is 5x as much as the 850
You make a good point there yes, I'll stick with the 850. I took it out last night. And yes I still love it 😍
@@exeterrider I have a 2005 R850R comfort & a 2002 R1150GS
I’ve been looking at the R1250GS that’s how I know
Have you upgraded to the Gemi chip?
Nope, I don't know much about it tbh
What is the lump of gutter stuck on the side of the bike for?
It's my famous flask holder 😎👍👍
What with the drain pipe?
The famous flask holder I made for saddlebags73 ride out day ...it became so infamous - I didn't want to take it off!
@@exeterrider What a good idea if you haven't panniers
@@WestSussexBiker it was only meant for 1 day, just too iconic now to get rid of 😅👍🍻
still a lot of bike for the money , better to find a cracked hose while your working on rather than riding it ;;;
Definitely, I'm really happy that the bike is up to standard now. Even if its not in the best condition, it's still a bit to ride 👍