Newbie here and to 1150R

[stu]

Hi All, I'm a newb here. I've been lurking for a little while as I consider changing from a F650GS (non ABS) to a R1150R. I thought I had made the decision, found a bike good condition 2002 etc. BUT then I read about the ABS problems on the 1150RT at another forum

Is this something that affects the 1150R? If yes is it an isolated issue, a 'no-one posts to say they have NOT had the problem' thing or something to be concerned about?

I am due to go and look at the bike and test ride tomorrow, what advice would you give me about the ABS & the R1150R in general.

Thanks very much in advance

stu (Bristol UK)

[omg1010]

Hi Stu,

it is an excellent bike which has been sold in big numbers (if you consider the R and the different siblings). Bearing in mind the numbers I would not worry much about any ABS problem. Problems can happen with every mechanical and technical equipment and likewise with your bike. No matter if it is a Honda or a BMW or Ducati.

Go testride and if you like it then get it. It is an excellent bike.

Best regards
Oliver

[stu]

Thanks Oliver for the reply. I look forward to my test ride tomorrow.

stu

[R4R&R]

BUT then I read about the ABS problems on the 1150RT at another forum

Exactly what ABS problems? Only problems in general, or is there something specific?

My '04 w/ABS hasn't had any ABS problems and I just turned over 85,000 miles.

[stu]

Hi John,

thanks for the reply. I was referring specifically to the ABS/Servo issues where the rider is left only with 'residual' braking.

As with many things on the WWW (world wide worry), only those with issues or those that need help or advice post, not many post to say they have had miles and miles of trouble free motoring, or have lived for 98 years and worked for 50 of them, only had 15 days sick in their life etc. etc.

I got my days all mixed up and am in fact test riding the bike tomorrow (Thursday), so maybe this time tomorrow I will be looking forward to many many miles of riding on a R1150R.

I'm still looking for any hints or tips on what to look for

[R4R&R]

My '04 had one issue related to the ABS, which was no servo assist. That made me realize just how heavy that bike is!

My issue turned out to be a mis-adjusted brake switch in the front brake lever/control housing. Basically, the system thought my brakes were always on so they never initialized. Otherwise - no problems, and I'm not worried about them. After I bought my bike, I did wonder if I made an expensive decision though, thinking of the cost associated with a servo failure but you can't always worry about what *could* happen; enjoy what you have while you have it!

[stu]

well... i liked it so much i bought it. It's now tucked up in the garage after the 180 mile ride home

I loved every of those miles and the bike ran well. i think the tickover is a little low though, how does one adjust that?

Also I have a factory alarm, and no instructions. could one of you guys point me to where I could find a downloadable instruction manual please.

Thanks

stu

[omg1010]

Hi stu,

what do you mean by "tickover"?

Best regards
Oliver

[NoRRmad]

Idle speed, which should be 1100 RPM. It's adjusted using the Big Brass Bypass Screws on the throttle bodies. Start with one-and-a-half turns out from bottomed-out on both sides. Then do a throttle-body sync if it's not running smoothly.

[stu]

Hi Oliver, Tickover = idle speed in English sorry.

Thanks for the answer NoRRmad.

Stu