The BMW problems are getting a bit like Ducati, where owners insist that only older models were affected, but everyone else knows it's not true
So what are these problems ? Engine? Gearbox ? Anything to worry about ? Anything I should be looking for ?
I joined the S1000rr forum and did my research before choosing the Honda. The main problems with the S1000RR is the engines going bang! (Can't remember exactly the technical details) A replacement engine costs about the same as a new bike to replace. Not an uncommon problem, some owners say it affects upto 15%-20% (ish) of all S1000RR's. Its not just a problem with the older bikes, it affects all models. Even low mileage bikes are going pop. Trying to get a new engine on the warranty from BMW is harder than getting blood out of a stone. Clutch and clutch baskets also a problem. Again not covered by the warranty as BMW claim the clutch is not covered as its a perishable part. The bill to fix those are about 2300 pounds. Many cases of unhappy customers on the forums. It put me off buying one. I would have being stretching my budget just buying the bike alone, if I got a bad one I wouldn't have had the cash to fix it. The blade was my next best option. Bulletproof engines and great build quality. No real problems (apart from the ABS) reported by owners. I'm well happy with my blade and don't have to worry about it going bang every time I take it out.
Blade RR8 Spend a good few hours reading the S1000RR forum and it may change your mind about owning one.
I will thanks for the info, very useful and very much appreciated you may have saved me a huge bill. I'm thinking of sticking with Honda. Will most likely try and change to a 12/13 plate Blade or keep mine but like most plans it could change completely by tomorrow, haha
Put me off BMW. Will wait until 2016 for new blade or new R1...if new blade does not have sufficient electronics on it.
Try the S1000RR as it tops the lot with all the performance and accessories. Pricey yes but worth the look as you have 10k to spend.
Actually Steve BMW have a good after care service and although I cant say new engine......the early issues of corroding sumps and failing contacts via switchgear many have been replaced well after out of warranty periods....
In fairness to BMW I remember the RR8 having 2 recalls (Clutch & Coolant hose) as well as some engines replaced due to excessive oil consumption and exhausts for discolouring. Aprilla RSV4 and Kawasaki ZX10R all had early teething problems too if I remember rightly. I think the bikes are that highly tuned these days the first owners also seem to be doing some of the reliability testing regardless of who the manufacture is.
