Lube Throttle cable

[John844]

I am new the the BMW world and just got my 98 R1100RT. My throttle seems stiff. Still usable and returns to idle, but uncomfortable after a few hours. The return to idle does appear sluggish like there is a slight drag or dampner on it. I checked the grip assembly and regreased it. The grease in there was really tacky and old, so I thought that was my problem. There is now no friction at that point. Are the springs on the throttle bodies really stiff, or do I need to dig deaper into lubing the cables and/or replacing them?

 

There are only 15000 miles on the bike.

 

If this cable can be lubed, I assume the tank will have to come off. There is only one cable attached to each throttle body, so the cable must split before getting there. I don't want any extra lube dripping all over the motor.

 

Any suggestions or things I should watch out for?

[Ken H.]

BMW cables are designed to run dry. If the cable itself is stiff, it is bad or there is a 'downsteam' issue.

 

There is a junction box under the tank, under the ABS unit where the throttle cable pulls the two shorter cables to the throttle bodies.

[John844]

Thanks Ken.

 

I noticed another thread where you just mentioned cleaning out that junction box. Can I just spray it out with brake cleaner, or will that be too harsh?

[Quinn]

Do you, by chance, have a throttle miester on the bike? If you have a chrome weighted knob at the end of the handlebars, try screwing in the right hand one.

[John844]

No throttle miester, just the stock cruise control. I have completely backed it off to make sure it is not affecting it.

[RFW]

BMW cables are designed to run dry.

Exactly. The cables are teflon lined. All that oil will do is attract dirt and future problems.

[90RedRider]

John I think the springs are just healthy. I noticed it on 1st long trip, having to hold throttle open all day. I got a throttle rocker for the cheap solution, so that the palm butt keeps pressure on without having to actively grip and apply continuous pressure.