Interesting. I live in the States. A year ago, the rear shock on my Multistrada 1200S failed. Local BMW/Ducati dealer wanted $3,300 USD to repair. They offered a silly trade in price, take it or leave it. No other options. After several days of googling for used shocks and repair options, I found a gentleman on eBay in the UK that does shock rebuilds. He repaired the shock for $300. Wonderful gentleman. I think it was Luke Lucas at T-Tech Suspension. I am happily on a V-Strom 1050XT now. Best to you.
Glad to hear that you had the bike sorted Dave. I needed a rear shock replaced on a previous 1200 GS, 3 years old and 27,000km and after a lot of communication, BMW Ireland reimbursed me for the total cost. I guess I was one of the lucky ones. Shocking price for a motorbike repair and especially for a low mileage premium product. Hats off to CC Motorcycles in Kells who took care of you. I had problems with a new 1200 Triumph Explorer within warranty and was equally unimpressed with the dealers response - a story for another day. Must check out your dealer in Kells.
TMF had similar issue, his low mileage 1200 had the same issue with the rear shox. Same quoted repair from dealer. He got a good second hand shock and had the local mechanic to change it for way less than half the BMW quote. Did you know that the BMW warranty does not extend to the suspension, the suspension has its own restriction, way less than the rest of the bike . Glad you got it sorted.
18:07 Hi Dave glad the bike is sorted. Just shows the value of a good local bike dealer who relies on reputation and recommendation. Once out of warranty much better to support them than mercanery mainstream dealers who's prices and overheads are much higher. Maybe you should keep your GS and ditch the dealer. All the best 👍👍👍
Exact same thing happened to my 2014 GS. Warranty just expired and the same dealer was very blunt about it too. I fought them on it and BMW eventually covered half of the cost. Still poor I thought, especially from a premium product. Definitely made me re think buying another beemer. Decided to hold on to mine as Ive already rode that depreciation curve, so worth more to me to keep now, than to trade in. Plus it runs great! Thanks for sharing this
Dealers & autobody shops don't like to fix things, they just want to replace with new parts. That's the way it is here in Canada anyway. Glad to hear you were able to source a shop to rebuild the shocks and a bike shop that actually cares about customer service. Great video & i appreciate your honesty about what happened.
Glad you got it sorted Dave and back loving your GS. Thats a shocking service and price from BMW. I hate that take it or leave it attitude from main dealers, feck all customer service. On the other hand, small good independent bike shops like those guys in CCs Unlimited should be applauded. We were heading up North one weekend and my uncles GS got a flat, which we repaired at the roadside however it was a big enough hole, so few calls round and CCs Unlimited sorted us out, we were about an hour from them, drove up, they replaced tyre, while we looked around at the bikes upstairs and we were on our way again and still made it to the hotel on the north coast that night, great service 👍
BMW dealers are the same in England, not interested in helping you save money, they just want to charge the highest price possible. They are one of the most unreliable brands with the biggest recall issues. Having tried two I now steer well clear of them. You're lucky to have found a good, honest independent dealer.
@splodge5714 sorry but that's definitely not the case. My last 4 BMW bikes 3xGS 1xS1XR have covered 5 continents over 59 countries and at least 250000 miles. All have been supplied and serviced by Cotswold Motorrad Cheltenham. They have been amazing and certainly never expensive especially compared to the other main brands Triumph and Honda locally, and they're customer service is second to none. 👍FB
I've only had bad experiences with BMW dealers and their charging/level of service. Still have my bmw but service it myself so at least I know it's done.
Sorry to hear Dave, 6,000 euro for your bike! that’s crazy. The car and bike second hand market is crashing currently. For that many miles the bikes suspension should not be failing, it’s not like you take it off road allot. Glad to see you got it sorted 👍 just makes me want a GS less than ever. Hope the weather picks up
Cheers Nick, yes the dealer clearly trying to ride me sideways here. I’m aware of it now though and potentially moving away from BMW as a result. Such a shame as it’s a fantastic bike.
I can fully appreciate your issue. I was the proud owner of a 2008 R1200GS which only had 18,000 miles on it when I bought it. Within 4,000 miles of owning it, the rear electronic pre-load adjust failed - the shock was fine but no ability to adjust pre-load. Took it to the local BMW dealer who said the entire shock needed to be replaced as the electronics were not serviced as a separate component. If memory serves me, they quoted over US$2,000 for that unit - not something that was going to fly. To be fair, the dealer was very helpful in exploring options and I finally settled on replacing both the front and rear shocks with Wilburs units and manual pre-load adjustment. Dealer helped by sourcing these at their cost and discounting the labor to install. Long story short, this was just one of several "BMW issues" with that bike that resulted in me now aboard a 2017 Africa Twin. A word of caution to you about the Africa Twin - if you take the new one for a test ride, you will buy it, so be prepared!! 😉
Christy and John are sound fellas. I've bought 2 bikes off them,one of the bikes had an electronics issue after I bought it,Christy was on the ball and had a solution to the problem. Long story short,Bike fixed and a happy customer. Any time I'm in the market for anything bike related,I give them first chance at it.
I had always done std servicing on my bikes but when I had a GS, I had to take my mechanicing to another level, as I could not afford BMW pricing. So I perfectly understand understand your disillusionment with BM.
I had something similar but perhaps more drastic. The steel shaft on my R1200RT rear shock snaped in half whilst on a ride. BMW were not interested in examining it for metal fatigue in case there was a pending issue for others. I was surprised but perhaps I shoul not have been.
Been a BMW rider for 20 years, but my R1200R had a drive shaft issue, £3K repair, then the rear shock went soft at 20K miles, traded it in for a Ducati V2 Multistrada. Just got £3K bill for my BMW car, I am also done with this brand.
I had 5 bmw cars. The x5 I had was the worst. Cost me $3500 to replace both rear shocks. Then the front started going. Also found out my engine block was cracked. Hence the smoking. That's my only thing about owning a bmw. Bike or car. I've been looking into buying a GS but I would try and do all the maintenance myself. Ebay helps as well for parts. The shocks on a gs cost just as much on the front or rear of their cars. Glad you got your issue worked out
@neilurquhart8622 😆 🤣 😂 😹 😆 🤣. I watched a valve check video and found a new found respect for the GS. They really did take into account that some people like to do their own maintenance. I thought I should give the GS a try but the hair stands up on the back of my neck when I think about it
Ami Gorey... Reconditioned shock fitted at a reasonable cost.. 2.5K-3.5K options are available if you want a new genuine or a touatech variant. Delighted with my reconditioned one and it also means I no longer have the rust on the lower end of the spring which annoyed me😅
Yeh mine got rebuilt a few years ago Dave...mines a 2015 1200...a company called TT who also specialise in ESA rebuilds....I won't be getting shut of mine...probably my last bike...agree about the tyres the Road 6s are superb...just waiting for the free shaft is a few hundred miles (about 37K miles)...that should be fun...ride safe..slainte mhath....🤘🏍🏴☠
I’m considering purchasing a 2015 1200GS with standard (non-esa) suspension. Previously owned a 2017 1200 GS exclusive which I really miss. Curious to see how the non-sea GS compares in ride quality.
This happened to me a couple of years ago. Only the rear shock was gone. I got an offer from the dealer for €1800, the specialised suspension shop changed the shocks and springs , front and rear for €1200. So yes, BMW charges a lot...
Crazy quoting on new shocks when they just needed a rebuild. Even if they were needed the price is insane! I too had the Metzler (01 SE) and I had the front sliding. Only had them as couldn't get the Michelin. I've just put in another set of Road 6 which just deliver. I'll be doing a complete coastal lap of Ireland on them in August 👍
I have owned six new BMW’s since 2014 and currently have a GSA and a R9T and not had any serious problems with any of them. May be I have been lucky. Having said that I keep my GS’s for a maximum of three years so that they are always in warranty.
Big reason why i came away from bmw loved my GS'S but they peeing me off with their pricing and TBO for a priuem brand they have lots of faults.good vlogs from you keep em oming.
This will start to catch up with BMW, I keep hearing of these stories. There are still a few good dealers but finding them is the tough thing. Glad your happy and back on it 👍
For those In the Uk, maybe abroad too. There is a guy in South London that repairs BMW suspensions for far less than what is mentioned in this video. Even if you are in EU I would think it is more worth to send your shock to him than any other option.
Dave, thank you for the countdown timer at the front of your videos!!!! We're all tired of getting sound-blasted by people screaming as soon as the video starts.
Glad you got the bike sorted Dave...big bills seem to go hand in hand with the big Beemers..didn't the shocks fail on the Long Way round GS's...? Finding a good and friendly independent mechanic is the answer...main dealer prices are crazy. Cheers Steve
That’s insane what Frau Beemer dealerships or should I say stealerships charge… Same way Harley does as well. Harley quoted me $4000 OTD for a cam swap including labor off course and parts. I did it in my garage in a week taking my time for roughly $1000 (special tools needed) and couldn’t be happier… I tend to trust independent shops a whole lot more after HD is charging $170 per hour labor…! Glad you sorted it out my friend… Cheers from across the pond in Arizona 🫡🇺🇸🌵
Mate of mine has a GS, best thing he ever bought for it was the extended warranty that covered everything. Half the bike is brand new at this stage with parts being replaced on it 😂 Just one point, we do have PCP in Ireland, I've bought bikes on both HP and PCP via BMW Motorrad
Wow that’s great you got that great service from your local dealer. BMW problems do scare me,as much as I like my 2017 gsa. People always bashing Harley, but I have an ultra limited for years and not near problems that I hear from bmw 😮🍻😎🏍💨💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦
That's BMW's business model. Replace and charge the customer. There's more videos around with how much it costs to replace an ESA suspension and yeah, it's eye watering. Another reason why I chose a 1050 v strom.
Any details for who did the shock rebuild, would be useful as considering a spring rate change even Dynamic feels ‘squidgy’ two up with luggage on b road tarmac. How are you finding the DJI mic 2 after a couple of weeks use?
I didn’t even ask CC’s who they sent it to. There word was good enough. Mic2 has a couple of flaws which need to be addressed in a future firmware update. I can’t seem to change the auto power off after 15mins and the Bluetooth drains the battery in the camera.
i was interested in the comment you made ref the rebuild company’s “it wasn’t that bad” statement as an retired engineer i wonder what’s causing the failures ( poor seals , poor original assembly of the shocks)
I think Dave your ire probably should be directed more to BMW Motorrad HQ in Munich Germany rather than towards the hapless dealership. The dealership do not set part prices and are bound to only use replacement parts including tyres etc. approved by BMW HQ engineers for each specific model. Labour costs may also be slightly above smaller outfits as the dealership has to maintain expensive showrooms, pay sales people, service managers etc. In any event glad you got sorted and thanks for sharing your experience.
Hi Dave, sorry to hear of the issues with your GS, if you are considering getting a Tiger 900 GT Pro I would strongly recommend you consider it. I’m 71 5’7” 29” leg & a couple of years ago bought 1, they are an amazing bike with a great spec & will do it all. Unfortunately for me I had a wobble on it just after I got it ( nearly dropped it on a camber ) & it unnerved me, a few weeks later I bought the low comfort seat 20mm lower but unheated then saw a video on YT where they fitted a heat pad to the low seat using the bikes original system & it worked flawlessly. The channel is called 3ft deep & the video is cold best comfort, they are based in Canada, I emailed them a couple of times to ask them things & they were very helpful, it cost me about £30 to convert it. I’m on my 5th Triumph now & my first being a 2010 Street Triple R after not riding for 40 years got on that as if I’d never been off a bike great. Also relating to the roads by you, below the back light on the Tiger is a letter box slot which I believe throws up mud etc so I bought a 3D printed infill which you simply silicone in to remedy. Good luck with whatever you choose & keep the videos coming…..regards Les.
Not great from a main dealership, glad your local garage sorted you out mate , I've also been looking at the Tiger 900GT PRO , it looks and sounds amazing, take a look at the CFMOTO 800 MT , it's got the KTM 790 engine and at the moment you get full luggage included in Mainland UK there £9200 on the road at the moment, a buddy of mine at the local KTM dealership has test rode one and was raving about it after 👍🏼
Interesting , I had a great experience with J Duffy getting the R9T serviced after coming back from Spain and Portugal last year. Might hold off on a new motor as Ducati not looking too bad at those prices
I had a run with BMW last summer, it was a fight to get the to replace the complete engine casing due to corrosion under warranty on a 1250 GSA with 12000 miles. They did the engine, but wouldn’t do the exhaust headers. At Fishguard last year waiting for the ferry to Rosslare every GS / GSA owner had experienced an issue with their bike. Try the Tiger 1200 GT Pro build quality far superior to BMW, in my opinion it’s a better bike and I’ve owned 3 GSAs.
I'd be home servicing, or going to a local garage, for servicing once out of warranty. In my experience BMW show no goodwill when the warranty is out anyway. I've a 2016 GS, great bike, cams and followers went at 23k miles, BMW were not interested in any help whatsoever. I was so annoyed I stopped using it and bought a Tiger Sport 660. Fantastic bike as well, I was hooked about half a mile into the test ride. I looked at the Tiger 900 GT Pro as well, but the servicing cost for12,000 miles is over £1000 for that one service. That works out at over 10ppm, So I got the cams and followers replaced, and still spent less on the Tiger Sport and BM repair than it would have cost me to trade up to a new GS. I'll keep the GS until I can't ride it anymore, but like yourself, I doubt I'd buy another one. That's partly down to the dealer experience as well, there's an air of superiority and take it or leave it attitude from my local dealer. Fortunately there's another dealer I can go to when I have to, although it's an extra 150 miles on the return journey.
2019 gs 1250, rear shock failed at 16km, no off-road, outside warranty. 2500 to replace, no thanks. Hang onto the GS and how about a 350 RE as a nice contrast to your other bikes?
Have a 2014 GS. Great bike but it has started making the same noises as you described. And I thought the same...it must be the centre stand rattling against the frame! Dammit 😢
What year and what kind of mileage or kilometres on the bike? I’ve felt the centre stand bounce, and bottomed out, so perhaps not being entirely sensible. Still rides fine. I have a 2017 R1200GS, 85000 km. No issues AFAIK, nice to know there are rebuild options of ever needed. Particularly since I really really like the bike. I like getting it a bit dirty, even dropped it a few times. A shiny one might not be quite as much fun.
Joe Duffy tried to scam me too… They came back with a list as long as my arm with things my jeep needed.. including new wiper blades.. funny thing was I had replaced all the wipers with brand new blades the night before I left it in with them.. when I confronted them they said that my report was for a different car and it was a mistake.. then my report had all the exact same items except the wipers and told me It was a coincidence.. pure frauds
Yes it’s a very one dimensional investment in their customers. The amount of people commenting here like yourself with similar BMW experiences is making me think even stronger about changing brands.
Great video, do you know the name of the firm in England who reconditioned the shocks? I need to send my rear one to get fixed, and I'm way away in Asia! Cheers
I’m afraid I don’t Thomas. I didn’t want to ask my bike shop in Kells incase they thought I might be pulling a fast one to go direct. Sorry about that. You could always ring Christy in CC’s unlimited in Kells, tell him you were watching this vid and explain what you’re wanting. 👌🤔
I am looking at a gs1200, what is the tank range on the 1200? I tried the 2024 Tiger 900 after owning an 800, hated the engine and tft. Trade in was just as crap with Triumph.
Well known issue with 1200 GSs, a Google search will save you a fortune with the shock being rebuilt by a suspension specialist. TMF had the same issue…as have several friends. Sounds like the local dealer is a keeper, I have a local car workshop who are similarly brilliant, charged me £150 for a turbo actuator when a franchise dealer told me I needed a new turbo for £1500!!
@@WheelieGoodTV I ride a Ducati which is within warranty but I’d be nervous too at the end of the term. Luckily the old Newcastle Ducati franchise have technicians who still do Ducati work at a reasonable price. If £850 for a 18,000 service on a 950 Desmo Multi is reasonable! Down south it can be £1200 plus, it’s a day’s labour plus parts!
Welcome to BMW. I never let the agent service specific parts like the suspension. Rather let a suspension specialist do that. The agent's aim is always to get the bike in an out of the workshop as fast as possible, no matter what the cost would be to you.
I have a 1200 GSA and my rear shock made the same clicking noise. My local no brand motorshop had it rebuild at about 500 euro’s and installed. I never brought my bike to a BMW dealer, always to the local motorshop. Much cheaper just as good or even beter. Stick to the guys in Kells, I should say. Why should you upgrade a perfectly good working machine like your GS ?
'Shocking' I do keep hearing these stories about BMW. Think I recall TMF having a similar issue on his GS. 8 years and 34,000 miles with my Yamaha. No issues so far. I just wonder if I want to own the new high tech 1300 GS when it's out of warranty. Glad you got it sorted. Are you like Harrys Garage where you keep record of all the motorcycle expenses for the year? Probably scary reading 🤣
Always, enjoy your videos mate. I have R1260 RT with all the panniers, I look like California highway patrol because it’s white 🤣, I also have an S 1000 R but last summer I came back to the UK and bought a Ducati Diavel V4 to do a 5 week tour around Europe. All I can say is it was an amazing bike because I managed to get two pennies on it and I was able to tour but also have the funny five minutes. It’s quite a bike and I think you’d be quite intrigued by it. For me it does both. I’d be very interested to see you make a video on test driving that bike. I think it’s good enough to count as two bikes. Keep them coming, looking forward to the next one.
BUddy, is your screen just dirty or is it an opaque screen. Cos its kinda annoying not being able to see through it while watching the travels. Glad you got it all sorted out
Yep same here at just 10k mine failed out of warranty however Bmw uk did agree to reimburse me 80% of the cost of a new shock I had to pay fitting. However there is a company that will rebuild for approx £300 quid and I paid approx £500 to Bmw for difference and fitting with 2 years warranty on the new shock so that made sense to me. I'm not sure I believe in so called German engineering, instead I look at it as "questionable" parts put together by Germans. My Royal Enfield Interceptor may not be as refined as my 20k Beemer but its a ton of fun and with a spanner and socket set and £200 quid ya got new shocks
Hey Dave just been watching the first reviews of the new Africa Twin better suspension better mid range grunt and a 19" front wheel. Oh and a low sear height. Could be a serious contender now. 😊FB
Yep, BMW parts are silly money. My rear shock was leaking on my 2011 GS, at 47,000 miles, so fair enough, it’s had a hammering. But BMW wanted 2k for a new one. Firefox Racing, Keighley, West Yorkshire, did a rebuild for £400. Also, BMW Motorworks, Huddersfield, new and used parts, also good. I wouldn’t buy electronic suspension again. My last 2006, 1200GS was manual adjustment, did 80K on that bike, absolutely no issues at all. To much electronics on bike nowadays.
The ESA suspension is a primitive design and seems to be prone to failure (most people dont notice!) The 13 gs 1200 suffers from engine paint peeling failed rear shock an overly light flywheel and rear shaft/bearing failures.. uk companies offer exchange service for shocks approx 300 per unit good deal. Buy an africa twin tenere 1200 or multistrada with 4 year warranty!
@@garysmith70 T Tech is what I have...on FB. Some friends in my touring club have Triumph Explorers....I am frequently summoned to pick them up off the ground in various hotel car parks!
Really sorry to hear about the poor customer service but unfortunately it's all too common. You are best funding a good independent just like it seems you have. Will be interested to see if you go the Africa Twin route.
I’m no fan of BMW dealerships, cars or bikes, but I will come to their defence. Part of their BMW contract will be they can only fit approved BMW parts, so them sending your shocks to a non approved company to be repaired could jeopardise their BMW franchise. Have you tried the 1050 V Strom, it’s 1/2 the price of a new GS1300
Hi Dave not a good advert for BMW , poor show on them . I own a 2017 R1200 GSA triple black I was thinking upgrading to A 1250 GSA , my view is the same as yours is it worth probably not & I’m not sold on gs1300 looks & the price either regards Peter
Trade it for a 1300. ah, good ending, wrote that before I heard the result. I have a '13 1200 so I may be in for that at some point. How many miles on your bike?
I just don't get why people use main dealers. If it's warranty dependent, fair enough but if you have found an independent garage that have looked after you in the past, I wouldn't go anywhere else.
Those shocks have a limited life span and wear out. They are only guaranteed even under warranty for approx. 20k miles, that being the case why the hell don't BMW design a cost effective maintance/replacement solution because the amount of bad publicity they get over this is huge.
Dick Turpin wore a Mask. Dealerships car or motorcycle rank No 2 on my list of Gangsters. Yes, politicians are No 1 Great story as usual Dave, thanks for the heads up.
We are always hearing about “GERMAN ENGINEERING & QUALITY”….maybe it’s a myth?….I’m certain you’ll love the Africa Twin SUPERB BUILD QUALITY & RELIABILITY (I’ve had two Honda Civics from new; ZERO PROBLEMS and have got a 2002 VTech which I bought at 6 months old; ZERO PROBLEMS
The BMW 1200 and 1250 are all known to blow their rear ESA shock. Search RUclips and you'll find numerous videos of owners complaining....BMW cost of ownership. 😊
Interesting. I live in the States. A year ago, the rear shock on my Multistrada 1200S failed. Local BMW/Ducati dealer wanted $3,300 USD to repair. They offered a silly trade in price, take it or leave it. No other options. After several days of googling for used shocks and repair options, I found a gentleman on eBay in the UK that does shock rebuilds. He repaired the shock for $300. Wonderful gentleman. I think it was Luke Lucas at T-Tech Suspension. I am happily on a V-Strom 1050XT now. Best to you.
Yes a few people are mentioning this chap. I’ll store that seed in my brain. 👌
There is a video of the person you mentioned (T-Tech Suspension) rebuilding a shock from a 1200GS, the channel is Billy4rocks, worth a look
Good for you. I have also upgraded to a Suzuki.
Glad to hear that you had the bike sorted Dave. I needed a rear shock replaced on a previous 1200 GS, 3 years old and 27,000km and after a lot of communication, BMW Ireland reimbursed me for the total cost. I guess I was one of the lucky ones. Shocking price for a motorbike repair and especially for a low mileage premium product. Hats off to CC Motorcycles in Kells who took care of you. I had problems with a new 1200 Triumph Explorer within warranty and was equally unimpressed with the dealers response - a story for another day. Must check out your dealer in Kells.
TMF had similar issue, his low mileage 1200 had the same issue with the rear shox. Same quoted repair from dealer. He got a good second hand shock and had the local mechanic to change it for way less than half the BMW quote.
Did you know that the BMW warranty does not extend to the suspension, the suspension has its own restriction, way less than the rest of the bike . Glad you got it sorted.
Keep your new old bike , she’s looked after you and we’ll keep going on for years
18:07 Hi Dave glad the bike is sorted. Just shows the value of a good local bike dealer who relies on reputation and recommendation. Once out of warranty much better to support them than mercanery mainstream dealers who's prices and overheads are much higher. Maybe you should keep your GS and ditch the dealer.
All the best 👍👍👍
Exact same thing happened to my 2014 GS. Warranty just expired and the same dealer was very blunt about it too. I fought them on it and BMW eventually covered half of the cost. Still poor I thought, especially from a premium product. Definitely made me re think buying another beemer. Decided to hold on to mine as Ive already rode that depreciation curve, so worth more to me to keep now, than to trade in. Plus it runs great! Thanks for sharing this
Dealers & autobody shops don't like to fix things, they just want to replace with new parts. That's the way it is here in Canada anyway.
Glad to hear you were able to source a shop to rebuild the shocks and a bike shop that actually cares about customer service.
Great video & i appreciate your honesty about what happened.
Glad you got it sorted Dave and back loving your GS.
Thats a shocking service and price from BMW.
I hate that take it or leave it attitude from main dealers, feck all customer service.
On the other hand, small good independent bike shops like those guys in CCs Unlimited should be applauded.
We were heading up North one weekend and my uncles GS got a flat, which we repaired at the roadside however it was a big enough hole, so few calls round and CCs Unlimited sorted us out, we were about an hour from them, drove up, they replaced tyre, while we looked around at the bikes upstairs and we were on our way again and still made it to the hotel on the north coast that night, great service 👍
Yep that’s top class service.
BMW dealers are the same in England, not interested in helping you save money, they just want to charge the highest price possible. They are one of the most unreliable brands with the biggest recall issues. Having tried two I now steer well clear of them. You're lucky to have found a good, honest independent dealer.
@splodge5714 sorry but that's definitely not the case. My last 4 BMW bikes 3xGS 1xS1XR have covered 5 continents over 59 countries and at least 250000 miles. All have been supplied and serviced by Cotswold Motorrad Cheltenham. They have been amazing and certainly never expensive especially compared to the other main brands Triumph and Honda locally, and they're customer service is second to none. 👍FB
I've only had bad experiences with BMW dealers and their charging/level of service. Still have my bmw but service it myself so at least I know it's done.
Sorry to hear Dave, 6,000 euro for your bike! that’s crazy. The car and bike second hand market is crashing currently. For that many miles the bikes suspension should not be failing, it’s not like you take it off road allot. Glad to see you got it sorted 👍 just makes me want a GS less than ever. Hope the weather picks up
Cheers Nick, yes the dealer clearly trying to ride me sideways here. I’m aware of it now though and potentially moving away from BMW as a result. Such a shame as it’s a fantastic bike.
I can fully appreciate your issue. I was the proud owner of a 2008 R1200GS which only had 18,000 miles on it when I bought it. Within 4,000 miles of owning it, the rear electronic pre-load adjust failed - the shock was fine but no ability to adjust pre-load. Took it to the local BMW dealer who said the entire shock needed to be replaced as the electronics were not serviced as a separate component. If memory serves me, they quoted over US$2,000 for that unit - not something that was going to fly. To be fair, the dealer was very helpful in exploring options and I finally settled on replacing both the front and rear shocks with Wilburs units and manual pre-load adjustment. Dealer helped by sourcing these at their cost and discounting the labor to install. Long story short, this was just one of several "BMW issues" with that bike that resulted in me now aboard a 2017 Africa Twin. A word of caution to you about the Africa Twin - if you take the new one for a test ride, you will buy it, so be prepared!! 😉
Uncanny how many people have had the same issue after posting this vid. I’m aware of the Africa Twin problem.🤣😉🤗
CC's are top class,sound lads,bought a bike there years ago when i lived in Virginia
The Missenden Flyers GS shock went a few years back.
So I gather. It’s surprising how many have.
Christy and John are sound fellas. I've bought 2 bikes off them,one of the bikes had an electronics issue after I bought it,Christy was on the ball and had a solution to the problem. Long story short,Bike fixed and a happy customer. Any time I'm in the market for anything bike related,I give them first chance at it.
I have a set of Road 6 on my 2013RT and I love them. It handles the twisties like a pro. Thanks for the info.
I had always done std servicing on my bikes but when I had a GS, I had to take my mechanicing to another level, as I could not afford BMW pricing. So I perfectly understand understand your disillusionment with BM.
I had something similar but perhaps more drastic. The steel shaft on my R1200RT rear shock snaped in half whilst on a ride. BMW were not interested in examining it for metal fatigue in case there was a pending issue for others. I was surprised but perhaps I shoul not have been.
Yes that doesn’t surprise me knowing what I know now. 🤔
Bought several bikes at cc's. Always helpful and great customer service.
Been a BMW rider for 20 years, but my R1200R had a drive shaft issue, £3K repair, then the rear shock went soft at 20K miles, traded it in for a Ducati V2 Multistrada. Just got £3K bill for my BMW car, I am also done with this brand.
Wow, I thought I was hard done by. 🥴
I had 5 bmw cars. The x5 I had was the worst. Cost me $3500 to replace both rear shocks. Then the front started going. Also found out my engine block was cracked. Hence the smoking. That's my only thing about owning a bmw. Bike or car. I've been looking into buying a GS but I would try and do all the maintenance myself. Ebay helps as well for parts. The shocks on a gs cost just as much on the front or rear of their cars. Glad you got your issue worked out
Why did you buy 5 BMW cars and are even thinking about getting a GS?
@neilurquhart8622 😆 🤣 😂 😹 😆 🤣. I watched a valve check video and found a new found respect for the GS. They really did take into account that some people like to do their own maintenance. I thought I should give the GS a try but the hair stands up on the back of my neck when I think about it
Ami Gorey... Reconditioned shock fitted at a reasonable cost.. 2.5K-3.5K options are available if you want a new genuine or a touatech variant. Delighted with my reconditioned one and it also means I no longer have the rust on the lower end of the spring which annoyed me😅
Should have sent the shock to Lucas @T-Tech Suspension, that would be a valuable service and upgrade
Yeh mine got rebuilt a few years ago Dave...mines a 2015 1200...a company called TT who also specialise in ESA rebuilds....I won't be getting shut of mine...probably my last bike...agree about the tyres the Road 6s are superb...just waiting for the free shaft is a few hundred miles (about 37K miles)...that should be fun...ride safe..slainte mhath....🤘🏍🏴☠
CCs are sound lads. Glad the bike is back on the road Dave.
You told me about them first Dylan before I’d even stepped foot in their shop. 👌🏍
I’m considering purchasing a 2015 1200GS with standard (non-esa) suspension. Previously owned a 2017 1200 GS exclusive which I really miss. Curious to see how the non-sea GS compares in ride quality.
Should have kept the FJR!
🤣👌
This happened to me a couple of years ago. Only the rear shock was gone. I got an offer from the dealer for €1800, the specialised suspension shop changed the shocks and springs , front and rear for €1200. So yes, BMW charges a lot...
TMF had a similar experience with his rear shock. Finding a decent dealer or independent is not easy. Look forward to April 👍
Crazy quoting on new shocks when they just needed a rebuild. Even if they were needed the price is insane!
I too had the Metzler (01 SE) and I had the front sliding. Only had them as couldn't get the Michelin. I've just put in another set of Road 6 which just deliver. I'll be doing a complete coastal lap of Ireland on them in August 👍
I have owned six new BMW’s since 2014 and currently have a GSA and a R9T and not had any serious problems with any of them. May be I have been lucky. Having said that I keep my GS’s for a maximum of three years so that they are always in warranty.
Glad to hear you got sorted Dave, GS's are super bikes if you have deep pockets and don't mind putting up with expensive repair bills !
Big reason why i came away from bmw loved my GS'S but they peeing me off with their pricing and TBO for a priuem brand they have lots of faults.good vlogs from you keep em oming.
This will start to catch up with BMW, I keep hearing of these stories.
There are still a few good dealers but finding them is the tough thing.
Glad your happy and back on it 👍
How are you man?! I’m delighted to be back on it although it’s somewhat bitter sweet.
@@WheelieGoodTV Mustn't grumble mate, if I start I won't stop!😂👍
For those In the Uk, maybe abroad too. There is a guy in South London that repairs BMW suspensions for far less than what is mentioned in this video. Even if you are in EU I would think it is more worth to send your shock to him than any other option.
Please share the details as I’m sure we could give him a lot of work. Not many here in Ireland doing this kind of repair. Cheers.
Great result Dave….you hear these sorts of stories far too often!
Cheers Andy, it’s great to know it doesn’t require a mortgage if there’s a local dealer out there willing to help. 💴 👌🏍
Good on you, Dave, for telling it as it is.
Yes it’s probably ended any relationship with the BMW dealer but I was pretty p***ed off. 🥴
Dave, thank you for the countdown timer at the front of your videos!!!! We're all tired of getting sound-blasted by people screaming as soon as the video starts.
Somebody else appreciated this recently too. 🤣👍
Glad you got the bike sorted Dave. The BMW dealership up here in the north hasn't a great reputation either!
Cheers Ian.
Glad you got the bike sorted Dave...big bills seem to go hand in hand with the big Beemers..didn't the shocks fail on the Long Way round GS's...? Finding a good and friendly independent mechanic is the answer...main dealer prices are crazy. Cheers Steve
Did you find the battery cover
🤣Sure did, the mechanic had it on a workbench. 👌
That’s insane what Frau Beemer dealerships or should I say stealerships charge… Same way Harley does as well. Harley quoted me $4000 OTD for a cam swap including labor off course and parts. I did it in my garage in a week taking my time for roughly $1000 (special tools needed) and couldn’t be happier… I tend to trust independent shops a whole lot more after HD is charging $170 per hour labor…! Glad you sorted it out my friend… Cheers from across the pond in Arizona
🫡🇺🇸🌵
Remember you can but aftermarket ESA shocks from Triactive and WP, brought a triactive rear unit for my S1000XR
Hi are you allowed to say which wizard rebuild the shocks for future reference as I've the same as your good self many thanks
I don’t actually know Ian but I could find out if needed.
That would be great thank you just for future reference !!!!!!
Mate of mine has a GS, best thing he ever bought for it was the extended warranty that covered everything. Half the bike is brand new at this stage with parts being replaced on it 😂
Just one point, we do have PCP in Ireland, I've bought bikes on both HP and PCP via BMW Motorrad
I never knew that about PCP. 🤯
well done Dave, nice to hear a bit of honesty for a change, great videos by the way.
Cheers Mark.👌🙏
Good story. Glad you didn't shell out the full Monty to repair by the bmw dealer
Yes and I thought at one stage it was going to be my only option.😬
Wow that’s great you got that great service from your local dealer. BMW problems do scare me,as much as I like my 2017 gsa. People always bashing Harley, but I have an ultra limited for years and not near problems that I hear from bmw 😮🍻😎🏍💨💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦
That's BMW's business model. Replace and charge the customer. There's more videos around with how much it costs to replace an ESA suspension and yeah, it's eye watering. Another reason why I chose a 1050 v strom.
Isn't rotation on the front tyre wrong? 🤔
Hope not, I’m gonna check now!!🤔🤯
Any details for who did the shock rebuild, would be useful as considering a spring rate change even Dynamic feels ‘squidgy’ two up with luggage on b road tarmac. How are you finding the DJI mic 2 after a couple of weeks use?
I didn’t even ask CC’s who they sent it to. There word was good enough. Mic2 has a couple of flaws which need to be addressed in a future firmware update. I can’t seem to change the auto power off after 15mins and the Bluetooth drains the battery in the camera.
@@WheelieGoodTV good to know got a few batts but power bank might be an option for bar cam at least
Can’t believe how many GS need shocks .
Yes I’m only learning this now.
Suspension and rear shafts are a big issue. Very expensive parts that are probably made in China.
i was interested in the comment you made ref the rebuild company’s “it wasn’t that bad” statement as an retired engineer i wonder what’s causing the failures ( poor seals , poor original assembly of the shocks)
@@wjb2 I’ve subsequently found out it was bad seals.
@@WheelieGoodTV p.s. did you find your cover ?
You do realise bmw stands for bring more wonga lol, happy to hear you are sorted.
🤣👌
I think Dave your ire probably should be directed more to BMW Motorrad HQ in Munich Germany rather than towards the hapless dealership. The dealership do not set part prices and are bound to only use replacement parts including tyres etc. approved by BMW HQ engineers for each specific model. Labour costs may also be slightly above smaller outfits as the dealership has to maintain expensive showrooms, pay sales people, service managers etc. In any event glad you got sorted and thanks for sharing your experience.
What milage was on bike when u noticed the noise first? .
Im from carlow and years ago bought bike from c,c, .that was great service u got from them
There was 30000Km when i noticed the ‘knocking’ and 33000 when i took it in and found out the news. 🔧
Not great milage so. Fingers xs my 2018 rt fairs better.@@WheelieGoodTV
Hi Dave, sorry to hear of the issues with your GS, if you are considering getting a Tiger 900 GT Pro I would strongly recommend you consider it.
I’m 71 5’7” 29” leg & a couple of years ago bought 1, they are an amazing bike with a great spec & will do it all.
Unfortunately for me I had a wobble on it just after I got it ( nearly dropped it on a camber ) & it unnerved me, a few weeks later I bought the low comfort seat 20mm lower but unheated then saw a video on YT where they fitted a heat pad to the low seat using the bikes original system & it worked flawlessly.
The channel is called 3ft deep & the video is cold best comfort, they are based in Canada, I emailed them a couple of times to ask them things & they were very helpful, it cost me about £30 to convert it.
I’m on my 5th Triumph now & my first being a 2010 Street Triple R after not riding for 40 years got on that as if I’d never been off a bike great.
Also relating to the roads by you, below the back light on the Tiger is a letter box slot which I believe throws up mud etc so I bought a 3D printed infill which you simply silicone in to remedy.
Good luck with whatever you choose & keep the videos coming…..regards Les.
Thanks Les, good info there. Yes I’ll be riding the Tiger soon on a test ride. Looking forward to it. 👌
Not great from a main dealership, glad your local garage sorted you out mate , I've also been looking at the Tiger 900GT PRO , it looks and sounds amazing, take a look at the CFMOTO 800 MT , it's got the KTM 790 engine and at the moment you get full luggage included in Mainland UK there £9200 on the road at the moment, a buddy of mine at the local KTM dealership has test rode one and was raving about it after 👍🏼
Cheers Dale, looking forward to test riding a 900 GT Pro soon. 😜👌
Interesting , I had a great experience with J Duffy getting the R9T serviced after coming back from Spain and Portugal last year.
Might hold off on a new motor as Ducati not looking too bad at those prices
I had a run with BMW last summer, it was a fight to get the to replace the complete engine casing due to corrosion under warranty on a 1250 GSA with 12000 miles. They did the engine, but wouldn’t do the exhaust headers. At Fishguard last year waiting for the ferry to Rosslare every GS / GSA owner had experienced an issue with their bike. Try the Tiger 1200 GT Pro build quality far superior to BMW, in my opinion it’s a better bike and I’ve owned 3 GSAs.
After reading all these messages I’m wondering why I still have the bike? The Tiger is top of my list with the new Africa Twin. 😉
This can be painfull message from the dealership...
I'd be home servicing, or going to a local garage, for servicing once out of warranty. In my experience BMW show no goodwill when the warranty is out anyway. I've a 2016 GS, great bike, cams and followers went at 23k miles, BMW were not interested in any help whatsoever. I was so annoyed I stopped using it and bought a Tiger Sport 660. Fantastic bike as well, I was hooked about half a mile into the test ride. I looked at the Tiger 900 GT Pro as well, but the servicing cost for12,000 miles is over £1000 for that one service. That works out at over 10ppm, So I got the cams and followers replaced, and still spent less on the Tiger Sport and BM repair than it would have cost me to trade up to a new GS. I'll keep the GS until I can't ride it anymore, but like yourself, I doubt I'd buy another one. That's partly down to the dealer experience as well, there's an air of superiority and take it or leave it attitude from my local dealer. Fortunately there's another dealer I can go to when I have to, although it's an extra 150 miles on the return journey.
2019 gs 1250, rear shock failed at 16km, no off-road, outside warranty. 2500 to replace, no thanks. Hang onto the GS and how about a 350 RE as a nice contrast to your other bikes?
Have a 2014 GS. Great bike but it has started making the same noises as you described. And I thought the same...it must be the centre stand rattling against the frame! Dammit 😢
Uh oh.😬
What year and what kind of mileage or kilometres on the bike?
I’ve felt the centre stand bounce, and bottomed out, so perhaps not being entirely sensible.
Still rides fine.
I have a 2017 R1200GS, 85000 km. No issues AFAIK, nice to know there are rebuild options of ever needed. Particularly since I really really like the bike. I like getting it a bit dirty, even dropped it a few times. A shiny one might not be quite as much fun.
2016 and only 33000km.
Joe Duffy tried to scam me too… They came back with a list as long as my arm with things my jeep needed.. including new wiper blades.. funny thing was I had replaced all the wipers with brand new blades the night before I left it in with them.. when I confronted them they said that my report was for a different car and it was a mistake.. then my report had all the exact same items except the wipers and told me
It was a coincidence.. pure frauds
Yes it’s a very one dimensional investment in their customers. The amount of people commenting here like yourself with similar BMW experiences is making me think even stronger about changing brands.
Great video, do you know the name of the firm in England who reconditioned the shocks? I need to send my rear one to get fixed, and I'm way away in Asia! Cheers
I’m afraid I don’t Thomas. I didn’t want to ask my bike shop in Kells incase they thought I might be pulling a fast one to go direct. Sorry about that. You could always ring Christy in CC’s unlimited in Kells, tell him you were watching this vid and explain what you’re wanting. 👌🤔
I am looking at a gs1200, what is the tank range on the 1200? I tried the 2024 Tiger 900 after owning an 800, hated the engine and tft. Trade in was just as crap with Triumph.
I get about 200KM on an and riding carefully with a lot of cruise control.
@@WheelieGoodTV wow, that is only about 125 miles, was expecting better than that.
Well known issue with 1200 GSs, a Google search will save you a fortune with the shock being rebuilt by a suspension specialist. TMF had the same issue…as have several friends. Sounds like the local dealer is a keeper, I have a local car workshop who are similarly brilliant, charged me £150 for a turbo actuator when a franchise dealer told me I needed a new turbo for £1500!!
Yes TMF had mentioned the exact same problem.
I love again now it’s fixed but I’m wary about other things going wrong and the expense involved.
@@WheelieGoodTV I ride a Ducati which is within warranty but I’d be nervous too at the end of the term. Luckily the old Newcastle Ducati franchise have technicians who still do Ducati work at a reasonable price. If £850 for a 18,000 service on a 950 Desmo Multi is reasonable! Down south it can be £1200 plus, it’s a day’s labour plus parts!
Welcome to BMW. I never let the agent service specific parts like the suspension. Rather let a suspension specialist do that. The agent's aim is always to get the bike in an out of the workshop as fast as possible, no matter what the cost would be to you.
This happens a lot with the GS at around 25k miles. Get it refurbished
Yes I’ve heard. The shocks have been sorted now. Thanks for watching 👌🎥🏍️
how did you get your phone to be held by the GPS mount??
There you go! It’s super.
amzn.to/3XioNUv
I have a 1200 GSA and my rear shock made the same clicking noise. My local no brand motorshop had it rebuild at about 500 euro’s and installed. I never brought my bike to a BMW dealer, always to the local motorshop. Much cheaper just as good or even beter. Stick to the guys in Kells, I should say. Why should you upgrade a perfectly good working machine like your GS ?
Seems to be quite common.
This is why the extended warranty is so popular on BMWs bikes I would suggest?
'Shocking' I do keep hearing these stories about BMW. Think I recall TMF having a similar issue on his GS.
8 years and 34,000 miles with my Yamaha. No issues so far.
I just wonder if I want to own the new high tech 1300 GS when it's out of warranty.
Glad you got it sorted. Are you like Harrys Garage where you keep record of all the motorcycle expenses for the year? Probably scary reading 🤣
Always, enjoy your videos mate. I have R1260 RT with all the panniers, I look like California highway patrol because it’s white 🤣, I also have an S 1000 R but last summer I came back to the UK and bought a Ducati Diavel V4 to do a 5 week tour around Europe. All I can say is it was an amazing bike because I managed to get two pennies on it and I was able to tour but also have the funny five minutes. It’s quite a bike and I think you’d be quite intrigued by it. For me it does both. I’d be very interested to see you make a video on test driving that bike. I think it’s good enough to count as two bikes. Keep them coming, looking forward to the next one.
I’ve always had a soft spot for a Diavel. I love the look of the new ones. Maybe I’ll look out for a test ride. 👀🏍️
Hi Dave try a tiger 900 rally pro your be surprised how good that is done 3 tours in Europe on mine it 👍 keep up the great and honest reviews 👍
On the list bud. 😉
How many km/miles on your GS? I have a 2017 (also Triple Black).
33000KM
That's why outa warranty I service the bike myself. Not giving them anything! Sounds like you owe your local dealer a 12 pack!
Nice one Dave and well done for a sourcing an alternative to BMW rip off prices. Dave, how do I find your merchandise?
Cheers David. Drop me a line to wheeliegoodvideos@gmail.com and I’ll reply with a Merch price list. Cheers mate. 🙏🏍
Shocking, how many kms has it done?
Only 33 thousand KM.
@@WheelieGoodTVDisappointing. I have a Ducati, I don’t use a mail agent, my local Ducati specialist has been a great help and I trust him.
BUddy, is your screen just dirty or is it an opaque screen. Cos its kinda annoying not being able to see through it while watching the travels. Glad you got it all sorted out
Yeah probably needs a clean 🧽
A precautionary tale. Thanks for the fore-warning.
Yep same here at just 10k mine failed out of warranty however Bmw uk did agree to reimburse me 80% of the cost of a new shock I had to pay fitting. However there is a company that will rebuild for approx £300 quid and I paid approx £500 to Bmw for difference and fitting with 2 years warranty on the new shock so that made sense to me. I'm not sure I believe in so called German engineering, instead I look at it as "questionable" parts put together by Germans. My Royal Enfield Interceptor may not be as refined as my 20k Beemer but its a ton of fun and with a spanner and socket set and £200 quid ya got new shocks
Dave, What's the milage and year of your bike ? Curious to hear as I'm on my 3rd GSA and never needed new shocks.
2016 with 33 thousand Kilometres
Hey Dave just been watching the first reviews of the new Africa Twin better suspension better mid range grunt and a 19" front wheel. Oh and a low sear height. Could be a serious contender now. 😊FB
Yep indeed. I watched it too.😍
What year and how many miles on the bike?
2016 and 26K miles
P.S. the name of the shock refurbishment company is T Tech Suspension .
T Tech did my 1250 as well when I had the same problem!
Yep, BMW parts are silly money. My rear shock was leaking on my 2011 GS, at 47,000 miles, so fair enough, it’s had a hammering. But BMW wanted 2k for a new one.
Firefox Racing, Keighley, West Yorkshire, did a rebuild for £400.
Also, BMW Motorworks, Huddersfield, new and used parts, also good.
I wouldn’t buy electronic suspension again. My last 2006, 1200GS was manual adjustment, did 80K on that bike, absolutely no issues at all.
To much electronics on bike nowadays.
Yes agree. This has definitely made me rethink.
The ESA suspension is a primitive design and seems to be prone to failure (most people dont notice!)
The 13 gs 1200 suffers from engine paint peeling failed rear shock an overly light flywheel and rear shaft/bearing failures.. uk companies offer exchange service for shocks approx 300 per unit good deal.
Buy an africa twin tenere 1200 or multistrada with 4 year warranty!
Good to know Ken and yes that new Africa Twin is firmly within my sights. 😜
Good morning,thanks for your honesty on this video ,makes it a interesting video.coffee on its way.👍Manxman 🇮🇲
Thanks Manxman! 🙏
Stick with the one you got, mate 👍 what year is it, and what's the mileage ? I got myself a new Tiger 900 rally pro last year and love it. 😂
That Tiger is on my list. My bike is 2016 with 26K miles.
@WheelieGoodTV 26k is nothing, and you shouldn't need new shocks 🙄
@@richardgiles2484 yeah I know. 😬
Triumph all the way!
Don't kid yourself 😅
@nikoscosmos How very dare you 🤣🤣🤣 K tech suspension isn't it?
@@garysmith70 T Tech is what I have...on FB.
Some friends in my touring club have Triumph Explorers....I am frequently summoned to pick them up off the ground in various hotel car parks!
Loving mine 😍
Really sorry to hear about the poor customer service but unfortunately it's all too common. You are best funding a good independent just like it seems you have. Will be interested to see if you go the Africa Twin route.
Yes the first bunch of reviews should be out soon from the launch last week. 😍
I’m no fan of BMW dealerships, cars or bikes, but I will come to their defence.
Part of their BMW contract will be they can only fit approved BMW parts, so them sending your shocks to a non approved company to be repaired could jeopardise their BMW franchise.
Have you tried the 1050 V Strom, it’s 1/2 the price of a new GS1300
Yeah fair comment. I don’t like the look of those V-Stroms though despite having a good rep.
Hi Dave not a good advert for BMW , poor show on them . I own a 2017 R1200 GSA triple black I was thinking upgrading to A 1250 GSA , my view is the same as yours is it worth probably not & I’m not sold on gs1300 looks & the price either regards Peter
Hi Peter, since this all happened I test rode the new 1300. That certainly put a spanner in the works. Vid next weekend.🥴
Trade it for a 1300. ah, good ending, wrote that before I heard the result. I have a '13 1200 so I may be in for that at some point. How many miles on your bike?
Only 34KM (26K miles)
I just don't get why people use main dealers. If it's warranty dependent, fair enough but if you have found an independent garage that have looked after you in the past, I wouldn't go anywhere else.
And yet people are flocking to the R1300GS....already catching fire due to faulty starter relays😮
Wow, that’s the first I’ve heard.
Those shocks have a limited life span and wear out. They are only guaranteed even under warranty for approx. 20k miles, that being the case why the hell don't BMW design a cost effective maintance/replacement solution because the amount of bad publicity they get over this is huge.
Why? $$$$$$$$
Dick Turpin wore a Mask.
Dealerships car or motorcycle rank No 2 on my list of Gangsters.
Yes, politicians are No 1
Great story as usual Dave, thanks for the heads up.
Love it! 🤣👌
We are always hearing about “GERMAN ENGINEERING & QUALITY”….maybe it’s a myth?….I’m certain you’ll love the Africa Twin SUPERB BUILD QUALITY & RELIABILITY (I’ve had two Honda Civics from new; ZERO PROBLEMS and have got a 2002 VTech which I bought at 6 months old; ZERO PROBLEMS
The BMW 1200 and 1250 are all known to blow their rear ESA shock. Search RUclips and you'll find numerous videos of owners complaining....BMW cost of ownership. 😊