schafn Posted September 7, 2006 Share Posted September 7, 2006 I am looking to buy a 2004 R1150GSA. I have one in my sights that has 34,000 miles on it. The BMW shop says the current (and only) owner is religious about maintenance. The warranty is already expired. What kind of lifespan do these motors have, and what limits that lifespan? In other words, what is the weakest link? Link to comment
smiller Posted September 7, 2006 Share Posted September 7, 2006 The oilheads have their weaknesses but basic engine longevity is not one of them. I don't know if I've ever heard of one wearing out and there are several running fine at the multi hundred-thousand mile mark. Most significant drivetrain issues have to do with either the transmission input splines and/or the final drive. Do a search here and you will find an almost unbelievable library of information on the subject (but don't let it scare you... by its nature the commentary makes the problems seem more common then they actually are.) Link to comment
redryder Posted September 7, 2006 Share Posted September 7, 2006 I just talked to a guy today riding a GS (at the Harley shop if you can believe that?) with over 50K on it. His last, and airhead, had over 100K on it. My 02 RT is now at 46K and getting ready to take a 6K trip this next weekend. I wouldn't fear putting money into a BMW. The GS is the best selling model over the world. As was mentioned in the previous post, there are some issues that pop up such as the clutch splines and some final drive failures, but those are the exceptions rather than the norm. One also has to ask just how those bikes were ridden/maintained. Before I'm flamed here, I'm accusing all failures on neglect and poor maintenance, but I think some of that does abound. Ride the bike, and if it feels good to you and you like it, buy it and don't look back. Link to comment
RichEdwards Posted September 7, 2006 Share Posted September 7, 2006 My '03 RT has 52,000 miles on it and it's running better than ever. These engines are meant to go well over 100K and, like fine wine, the older they get, the smoother they get. Link to comment
Bill Neander Posted September 8, 2006 Share Posted September 8, 2006 Fellow in Sacramento,Ca. area has 225,000 on an 1100 GS and just rode it 1,000 miles over Labor Day weekend. Link to comment
JohnBeaven Posted September 8, 2006 Share Posted September 8, 2006 My 1998 R1100RT suffered an engine failure at 130000km that was uneconomical to repair. But I believe this is an exception so it didn't stop me buying a R1200RT. My old 1992 R100RT has covered 225000km when I sold it and it was still going strong. Link to comment
ninermatt Posted September 8, 2006 Share Posted September 8, 2006 There are more than a few guys over on Advrider with more than 300,000 miles on their oilheads Link to comment
schafn Posted September 8, 2006 Author Share Posted September 8, 2006 Many thanks to all who responded. I feel now that I can be confident about riding this bike for years to come. Link to comment
W. Mazelin Posted September 8, 2006 Share Posted September 8, 2006 My '02 R-1150-GS has 62,187 miles on it now. It's primed and ready for the next ride. Link to comment
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