Hello from a new member.

[Montycs]

I am a long time Beemer rider and I am picking up a low mileage R1150R non-ABS, (2002). Is there anything I should be wary of with this model. I have owned R1100R's and really enjoyed them. Thank you for any info.

[Rider Rick]

Hi Monty, welcome to the forum. I personally have never owned a 2002, although I've ridden a friend's. If I recall, he said it had a slight surge now and then that was due to something in the ignition system, not sure he was able to correct it, I'm sure it is mentioned on here, in fact I think they went to dual-plug version in order to do something about that. Search is good . My bike is non-abs so if yours has that you will need to definitely do some reading here on upkeep for that. Since you've ridden them for a long time I suspect you know your way around so upkeep won't be a problem for you.

Search for this... +2002 +problems +r1150r

Don't be afraid of everything you find, this place attracts a lot of people with issues, but solutions are also here. I would check the wiring harness for a too-tight zip tie that can cause wire breakage, that is in here. Also, some bikes do better than others with certain spark plugs that can reduce surging. That will be a search result, good luck!

[Ksbeemer]

Hello Monty,

I have a 2002 with ABS. I've had it about three years. It is a very nice bike. I have not had the surging problems with mine that some have. This forum is a very good place for information of all types on the R1150R. There may seem to be a lot issues and problems discussed, but there are many positve comments, too. Use the search function and you will be able to find just about any topic of interest.

The one thing I would check first, is the fuel line quick disconnects. The plastic ones that come on the bike will fail. It is not a matter of if, it is a matter of when. The Beemer Boneyard has some nice ones (http://www.beemerboneyard.com/) and they are not hard to install. You might also want to check the zip ties on the electrical wires up near the steering head. They are known to pinch the wires and cause them to break.

I also replaced the left cam chain tensioner with the upgraded version. A & S BMW has the parts for about $110.00 shipped:

http://www.ascycles.com/Illustrated_cat ... at=11_2797

Its parts #10, 12, and 15. Really makes the engine quiter and seemed to make it smoother, too. There are youtube videos that show how to do it. And, here is a good link for the run down on it.

http://advwisdom.hogranch.com/Wisdom/Ca ... rSwap.html

You can tell if yours is the old version, if it has a 17mm head. The newer ones have 15mm head. Its not a hard job,either.

These are the main things I've done mehanically since getting the bike, except for the more routine maintenance stuff like changing the oil, filter, new battery and stuff like that. Except for the disconnects going out (luckily not too far from home), I have had a very good experience with this bike and I think you will, too.

Hope you enjoy your new bike.

[sweatmark]

I am a long time Beemer rider and I am picking up a low mileage R1150R non-ABS, (2002). Is there anything I should be wary of with this model. I have owned R1100R's and really enjoyed them. Thank you for any info.

We owned a non-ABS R1150R for several years and 35,000 miles. Good bike, no major faults.

As mentioned, replace the fuel quick-connects (male side) with metal versions. Kit available at dealer or Beemer Boneyard.

I would also replace the '02's rubber brake lines with SS braided versions. Get them used, or go aftermarket.

Check wiring at front subframe, and remove wire ties if still attached and pinching the various harnesses that run to forward controls and ignition switch.

If you're comfortable wrenching, pull the bike apart and check transmission input splines some weekend. Replace the clutch slave cylinder while the bike's in two pieces.

Check the final drive and Paralever pivot bearings.

Good info here and at ADVrider concerning the R1150R/GS bikes.

[Biff's R]

I had a 03 non ABS and have an 04 ABS model. The Autolite 3923 plugs worked good and were cheap. My suggestions would be to change the fluids and the ride the crap out of the bike. Why spend time looking for problems that are probably not there. The quick disconnects are a good upgrade to do when you take the tank off.

[Montycs]

Thanks for the good tips. I am going to pick up the bike Friday. I was going to change the fluids and check the tie raps.I will ask about the quick disconnects at the dealer. I am not sure about servicing the brake fluid because that is something I have never done.

[maccraith]

I have an '03 1150r non ABS with 60,000 miles on it. When I got it about a year ago, it had surging problems, but was otherwise absolutely solid. After doing my homework on this board and others, I removed the carbon canister, replaced the plugs with AutoLite 3923 plugs and installed a BoosterPlug. The surging is gone and the bike pulls like a tractor from 2000rpm all the way up. An absolutely fabulous machine!

[Sunbeemer]

Welcome to this forum Montycs!
I have a 2002 non-ABS bike I will keep forever and +1 Sweatmarks recommendations.
I'd also add to inspect every bit of rubber on the bike with an eye toward replacement, including the boot over the balljoint that attaches the telelever (wishbone) suspension arm to the fork bridge. Unfortunately these are not available separately but only as part of a new ball joint for ~ $130. Mine is wrapped in multiple layers of silicone and electric tape to keep the grit out of it. Replaced brake lines with braided stainless steel ones last year when one started leaking...they have a better feel too.

I like the less maintenance and expense non-ABS bikes need and changing the brake fluid is less difficult than flushing a car's. I've only missed having ABS brakes twice, and neither time did I lay the bike down, but there was some puckering!

[Montycs]

Picked up the R1150R today and I must say I am really impressed, much better than the R1200C I traded. Foothills BMW in Denver was really great about the trade. Coming down I-25 was great, no vibration and good wind protection. I hope to get many good miles on it.