Jim, my apologies. You're correct. There's a diff between ignition connector and stick coil. Compare the diagrams 12_1226 (dual spark) and 12_0769 (single spark). Wow! $76 for a spark plug connector!

Any chance there's an insulator that's rubbed thru and is shorting intermittently? Not that I know what I'm talking about just thinking out loud.

If you were thinking out loud, we would need a NWS tag :D

Phil,

Thanks very much for this resource and diagram! Now I know where to look for an IPC (illustrated parts diagram!) for the bike.

If the wire was not functioning correctly and shorting out, there should be some sign of it on the wire where it was arc'ing to the head or ground, and so far have not seen any of that but will keep looking closely.

Thx,

Joe

I replaced my wires with these..Brand New Aftermarket Spark Plug Wires For All Single Spark R850/1100/1150 Bikes and run the iridium version of the autolite 3923's, the bike seems to run really well with this combo and it is cheaper than oem wires. Your plug wires can be breaking down without visible signs.

Joe, no affiliation but Max BMW is awesome for on-line ordering/delivery of OEM parts. I've ordered everything from them w/no hassle. Fast, friendly service if your local bike store doesn't stock parts you need.

Great info guys! Thanks much!

Just put the new plugs in the bike and on my "100 yard course" (the street by my house) the bike started on two, ran smoothly and no backfiring during several runs up and down the street, so am hoping that its taken care of.

Still am thinking about picking up a set of the aftermarket wires and changing them out. The bike is coming up on being 20 years old and thats a long time for the OEM wiring.

Thanks again!

Joe

Stick-coils, #3 in the diagram, are only on the twin-spark models like Phil Y's. They are the coil which disconnects from the plug and the plug wire.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1365440362.jpg


On single-spark models like the OP, #2 in the diagram, it is an extension on the plug wire to reach into the plug and they are molded onto the wires. The coil is under the tank.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1365440397.jpg


If both plugs look the same then it is probable a HES issue, fuel pump/filter problem, or coil. If the plugs are different then it could be a bad plug, plug wire or injector.

Sounds like HES. If it is original I would look there first

Well, good news! Changed out the plugs and just put 30 miles on the bike. Ran good and solid the entire time and not a hiccup!

Thx, Joe

Great news! Reinforces the old wrenching adage: try the easiest/cheapest things first!

Also reinforces to carry a spare set of plugs with you! At $2 each, its well worth it!

His stick coils are totally crap! no question about it. in fact, they are so bad, that if he went searching for them.... they would be nowhere to be found.
secondary coils did not exist until the twin-spark heads, circa 2004 (maybe '03).