R1200R reliability

[wambo]

Has the R1200R had any issues like other BMWs? Like final drive issues, gas gauge issues, transmission spline issues, EWS immobilizer antenna issues? Seems like It's pretty quiet here regarding reliability issues, so I was curious.

Thanks!

[deilenberger]

From memory - there have been 1 or 2 EWS failures reported (and lots of R12R's were covered for a new EWS antenna) - and that's about it. The bikes seem amazingly reliable. There is also a recall on some '07's for some brake lines, but haven't heard of any failures that I can recall.

[lucagoa]

Hello,

yes I had my R1200R serviced for a new EWS antenna. In the meantime they replace a brake line and purged (in a way better) the whole system. They also did something to electronic (some new software release) but I've no other details.
Luca

[ka5ysy]

Exide batteries; they die instantly without warning in accordance with Murphy's Law.

[wambo]

It seems like these are more GS and LT issues apparently. I've been following this because I really like these bikes, but like any consumer, don't want to spend close to $20k and have nothing but issues to keep me from riding.

Thanks for the replys!

[mogu83]

One of the reasons that the R1200R has less 'issues' than the GS and LT is that it's a much simpler machine. Simple by todays standards means it's about as complicated as the first space shuttle. These owners internet lists usually are overly critical of the machines that the members put their hard earned money on, I guess we all expect perfection. I don't remember anyone on this list having a rear drive explode while they were riding along the road, a few were stranded because of the EWS antenna problem and a few had issues with the battery. Not bad considering all the R1200Rs on the road.
Being a long time Guzzi rider (if there was a dealer within 150 miles of me I'd be on one) I frequent the Guzzi lists. If someone was considering a new Norge and went on the Guzzi lists for information they would take their money and run away fast. To listen to the people on the lists it sounds like the bikes are falling apart on the road. I know two Norge owners that have had no issues and are happy with their machines (BTW: Germany is Guzzis biggest market -- go figure?)
Point is don't use an internet owners list as your only source of information when considering a new bike.

I'm very happy with my bike and discover new reasons to respect it with every mile in the saddle.

[Bill Stevenson]

My gas gauge died. The EWS was modified but never failed. The brake recall was done, but I never had a problem. The R1200R is pretty damn solid all things considered. Mine uses no oil between changes (I change at 3,000 mile intervals), which is a first.

Bill

[tunamambo]

I had an EWS failure in June, four weeks after buying my 2008 R1200R. My condo neighbor bought his F800S a week after I bought my bike and had an EWS failure around the same time as mine. Outstanding instantaneous dealer response for both of us (Gateway BMW in St. Louis). Bad show by BMW in my opinion--stonewalling (at best) on the existence of a problem and footdragging on getting the fix in place. That said, I wouldn't swap my bike for any other.

[Rockosmith]

I must now show my ignorance...what is EWS and why does it have an antenna?? I ride an 1150R, therefore my lack of knowlege on he 1200R, but I am looking hard at them as my 1150 gets older.

[cheelleebutt]

I must now show my ignorance...what is EWS and why does it have an antenna?? I ride an 1150R, therefore my lack of knowlege on he 1200R, but I am looking hard at them as my 1150 gets older.

The EWS is responsible for immobilizing the R12R when the correct chip (in key) is not detected. The antenna (ring) is installed right on, under, or around the key slot which communicated with the key, and/or vise versa, to let the R12R's computer know that the correct key is inserted and the bike is allowed to start. Most of the modern R bikes (e.g. R12GS, R12R, R12RT, etc.) have EWS installed by default. It's a basic theft deterrent system without the need for an alarm system. I hope this is sufficient of an answer without getting too nerdy.

[Rockosmith]

Thanks for the informative reply.