Wierd vibration while leaning left/right ... following BMW service

[fireman_mck]

I have a 2007 BMW R1200GS. It has about 6300 miles on it (I know ... need to ride it more).

I took the bike in for the annual maintenance service. Bike rode fine before I took it in. The shop suggested in addition to the annual service to do the following

• Replace front brake fluids
• Replace rear brake fluids
• Replace Gearbox oil
• Replace Alternator Drive Belt (not sure now since on-lie service manual states this be done at 36,000 miles, their service schedule sated 6 years)

When I rode the bike home, I noticed that when I leaned just a bit to the left and/or the right ... while NOT engaging the throttle and/or brakes ... I noticed this virbation coming from the "front" area through my seat and handlebars.

Took it back and what they claim is the problem is un-even warn of the front tire. The rear tire was replaced two years ago (around 2,700 miles or so because of a razor knife blade that was stuck in it). Potentially the increase in tire pressure (to bring it to manufacturer suggested PSI) is sending this vibration up to me.

Anyone else have this type of virbation/feedback? I don't really want to change my front tire as it still has a lot of treat left.

Thanks
Myron

[GoGoGavin41]

Post a picture of the tire they claim is bad. Did you take it to Battley?

[bdarling]

This has happened to me on three sets of Anakees, so I wouldn't be too concerned about it. These symptoms usually start on my 1100 when I get near 30% remaining life and I just ignore it for a few months.

[fire carl]

I have the same problem when my tires get to about 50% wear. It gets worse as the tire wears even more.

[Gezerbike]

Yep, sounds like a tire.

[slartidbartfast]

Slightly cupped tire will make a buzzing/humming noise when leant over, even slightly. May be more noticeable on certain road surfaces.

If you let the front tire run with low pressure it will have cupped worse and, yes, putting pressures back to normal will probably make you feel it more.

Most bikes will cup tires to some extent but the telelever BMWs seeems to be especially bad. I have a theory that it has to do with the rigidity of the design, and lack of dive (encouraging harder use of the front brake.) Tires with big/tall tread blocks will usually develop worse symptoms. It used to bother me but after riding a bike with DOT knobbies on the street I now barely notice it.

[TUCKERS]

Yup they do cup and especially so at lower pressures. I do well at 40 in the front but they still cup, just not as soon.

[fireman_mck]

I'll post a pick soon. Yes I did take it to Battley. I used to take it to Bob's but Battley's i closer so I thought I would try them out. I also know someone who works there (Harley tech and volunteer FF).

Originally Posted by GoGoGavin41

Post a picture of the tire they claim is bad. Did you take it to Battley?

[fireman_mck]

Cupping of the tire is what they mentioned. Since there is a good amount of life on the tire I'll live with it and it really isn't that bad.

Thanks everyone for the info.

[JimVonBaden]

Battley is a good dealer, though I do not understand why they would change your alternator belt.

Bt the way, you are close, come learn how easy it is to do your own, meet some ADV riders, and hang out. See my yellow sigline.

Jim

[fireman_mck]

Thanks Jim.

I would love to. I have been meaning for years to meet you and learn from you and others. I have it on my calendar ... wife permitting !

Originally Posted by JimVonBaden

Battley is a good dealer, though I do not understand why they would change your alternator belt.

Bt the way, you are close, come learn how easy it is to do your own, meet some ADV riders, and hang out. See my yellow sigline.

Jim

[AntonLargiader]

Originally Posted by fireman_mck

[*]Replace Alternator Drive Belt (not sure now since on-lie service manual states this be done at 36,000 miles, their service schedule sated 6 years)

What on-line manual says that? It's obsolete.

Originally Posted by JimVonBaden

Battley is a good dealer, though I do not understand why they would change your alternator belt.

They are following BMW's instructions, which are 24k miles or six years.

['05Train]

FWIW, I live in Poolesville; Battley is the closest dealer for both of my bikes (BMW and Harley). For the rare occasion I need to take a bike to a dealer's service department, I go to Bob's for the Beemer, Old Glory for the Harley. If my bike broke down on Airpark Drive, I'd arrange for a tow.

[JimVonBaden]

Originally Posted by AntonLargiader

They are following BMW's instructions, which are 24k miles or six years.

Oops, I missed the age of the bike.


Jim

[JimVonBaden]

Originally Posted by '05Train

FWIW, I live in Poolesville; Battley is the closest dealer for both of my bikes (BMW and Harley). For the rare occasion I need to take a bike to a dealer's service department, I go to Bob's for the Beemer, Old Glory for the Harley. If my bike broke down on Airpark Drive, I'd arrange for a tow.

You go to Bob's? Aren't you the one complaining about your oil use and the dealer is telling you nothing is wrong?

Jim