Introduction and a few questions

[Thks4AllTheFsh]

Hi everyone. I bought a 2004 with 28K miles (see photo). Seems to be a popular choice these days in the new member threads. Love the bike. I've been lusting after this bike since I was 16. Anyway, I was hoping you all could help me out with some questions on maintenance. I've done some searches and found some stuff, like the service manual pdfs, but wanted a few opinions from the source.

I get the feeling the bike has been well maintained, but there aren't really well documented service records. It also seems due for much of at least the 6K service. anyway, I was planning on doing the whole 12K service plus the extras (alternator belt, plugs, possibly brake pads while I have the calipers off). I was wondering if anyone has recommendations for the best (quality and value) kit for doing this or if most people buy everything separately. A and S cycle seems to have a decent one, anyone used this? I was also wondering what interval most of you are changing brake lines at, or if I should wait until I have an issue with them. Is it true that the ABS bikes can't use steel lines? Can anyone recommend a good source for new brake lines? The manuals also call for BMW #10 grease. I can't seem to find this anywhere online. Will a general purpose automotive grease work, or does someone have a source for this as well?

One last thing. I noticed some small cracks in the fork dust wipers. I've included a picture. They are a little hard to see. No oil leak or anything, but was wondering if I should go ahead and replace these, or wait until there is a problem with the seals themselves.

Thanks for reading and any advice you might have.

[Guest24]

The dry rot cracks are not the seals; but, they easy to change out. Download the maintenance manual online and you can replace them in about 30 minutes.

Here's the part to order.

31422311980 CUP 2ea $14.53
Recommended when doing a fork rebuild.



Here's your source for parts and #'s http://www.maxbmwmotorcycles.com/fiche/DiagramsMain.aspx?vid=51678&rnd=03192010#

[CoffeeGuy]

Beemer boneyard is where I pick up most of my new parts and service items.
Abs bikes can use SS lines.
Spiegler is where to go.

[Bob Hancock]

+1 on Beemer Boneyard.

Those fork covers don't really seal anything but I know it will make you feel better to change them out.

I never changed the brake lines....two R11S's and nearly 70,000 miles but, again, it will do you both good in the initial bonding process. After all, if we weren't anal, we wouldn't be BeemerDorks.

Nice bike....welcome aboard.

[hellfishtat]

I changed my brake lines after the rear failed. It was 11 yrs old at the time and a full set of Spiegler's are much cheaper/better ($218w/ABS $175w/o) than having the front one fail and getting hurt or killed.

Plus, their stainless steel, and we all know how cool THAT is.

[wiggledbits]

Originally Posted by Bob Hancock

+1 on Beemer Boneyard.

... it will do you both good in the initial bonding process. After all, if we weren't anal, we wouldn't be BeemerDorks.

Nice bike....welcome aboard.

+1



+1

Try to spend more time riding her then stroking her during riding season.