UPDATE (2021. 04.) The dealer (service) called me. They contacted with the BMW and at the suggestion of the factory, the following was done: Both side exhaust valve clearance set to factory minimal (0,34-0,35 or something) + change the battery to this type: BMW 61-21-8-394-179. This is a grey covered new 12V 12Ah battery, which is actually a kind of lower capacity battery (the factory battery as you can see in my video is a 12/14 Ah battery, code number: 61-21-8-389-125). Now the bike works good, but I need to test for any issues. The dealer said if there will be any similar starting problem, they will take more serious action from the importer (BMW). UPDATE (2021. 03.) My bike failed to start again, like in the video.. 40 minutes later it started normally, without any operation (charging etc..) Calling the service again, I'm afraid it is much more complicated issue, than a valve clearance or a battery issue.. This new BMW is an unusable bike now. UPDATE (2021. 02.) My bike did the same fault as before - so far only once.. so the problem still exist.. Please leave a comment if you had the same issue and has been solved properly! UPDATE (2020. 01.) Last week (2020. january) called me the dealer they have found the problem and reapired it. Earlier they updated the software but nothing has changed. (My bike engine code: 0J91 - Europe, Hungary 2019.) As I had guessed earlier they said the problem was the compression. Compression release did not work consistently on the left cylinder. That's why it will start sometimes, depending on if the bad side is on compression on that first turn. Not the automatic decompressor was the defective part, it works perfectly. The problem is the exhaust VALVE CLEARANCE they said. The clearance was too big (even within tolerance) so they adjusted it (within factory tolerance) because with this factory setting the decompressor cam did not open the valve as much as it should. So if your bike doing similar malfunctions measure the compression, its a simple process! I don’t know how they made the adjustment, because the valve clearance adjusted by steel balls, they may change the ball to bigger size (to reduce the clearance). Here is a video of a 1200 wethead adjustment: th-cam.com/video/OqWgZTkFeM8/w-d-xo.html I am wondering how can this 20.000$ bike come out from factory with this settings than can cause this kind of severe malfunction. Anyway, I am happy and I can finally enjoy my bike. More information and exchange of experience in this Adv.Rider topic: advrider.com/f/threads/r1250gs-starting-problem.1418465/
bkriss köszi a videót! Nekem is hasonló gondjaim vannak, most vettem a motort a Wallisnál. Kb értem amit leírtál, de magyarul is le tudod írni, hogy mi ez? Nekem most 400km van a motorba, nemsokára viszem az első szervizre és szeretném ezt jelenteni. Idáig csak az első indításnál vettem ezt észre, 5 fokban. Holnap melegebb lesz, kiváncsi vagyok, hogy csinálja-e, de egy 8 milliós új motornál ez elég gáz jelenség.
That’s good to know my GS is doing the same thing. 500 miles and no start about 8 times. 2 hours to the dealer with no relief. Once pulled in head to head with 2 Harley riders. They loved it.
I believe this is an issue with the Auto-Decompression mechanism, located on the exhaust cams. The decompressor cam arm is failing to remain in it's "start" position when cranking - it is a speed sensitive centrifugal mechanism, active at cranking speed, deactivated at firing speed and higher. At cranking speed, the decompressor cam arm is in it's "Start" position - this presents a small additional "lobe" on the base circle of the FWD exhaust cam lobes, removing the normal FWD exhaust valve clearance, partially opening those exhaust valves on base circle BDC, providing cylinder decompression. When the engine fires, the decompressor cam arm rotates out to a "Run" position (due to centrifugal force), the rotation removes the additional "lobe" from the FWD exhaust lobe base circle and the normal exhaust valve clearance is reinstated, hence also removing the cylinder decompression. Seems the advice from BMW to reduce exhaust valve clearance (to absolute minimum) indicates they were aware the decompressor mechanism was failing to act on the exhaust valve. By installing a lower capacity battery (assumed lower CCA also ?) would possibly result in an overall lower cranking speed, thus ensuring the decompressor cam arm remained in the "Start" position, rather than deactivating to the Run position on cranking, due to too high a cranking speed ? The symptoms occurring on attempted re-start, following a short ride could be due to a higher battery voltage (charged during ride out) and lower oil viscosity (Hot engine), resulting in Higher cranking speed - decompressor mechanism deactivating to "run" position as a result. (?) I wonder if this issue is more prevalent in hotter climates ? Would a higher viscosity oil (or even change of brand) cure the problem (?) - Reducing the cranking speed may be the cure ... ???
Your solution is partially correct, but there is an important detail: when you try to start the bike from a short ride, the starter motor does not rotate the engine fast. Just like in the video. Thats why it is completely incomprehensible. In a hot engine the valve clearance is even smaller, so the decomp mechanism schould work better...
Hi Kookie - your explanation seems very plausible....I live in Australia and have had this starting issue 2 times - each time has been AFTER the bike had been on the Optimate 4 battery charger for 3 or 4 days - in Can-bus mode!! Same scenario, short 30minute ride, fill up with petrol, then would not start - but did so after 40minutes!! Each time the day was not hot, about 17C degrees. So your theory of higher voltage could be right, having had the bike on the charger for a few days?? I use Motul 5100 oil 10w/40 , BMW recommends 5w/40 so the oil viscosity may be an issue....although each time it has done it the motor was at operating temp. So not sure on this point. All my rides are long, never commuting so I believe my battery is ok ( original with 43,000klms ) and was checked last service by BMW specialist as being perfect! Very strange. But also if the auto-decompression unit is the problem, why does it start after a 30-40minute wait? Perhaps the battery has lost some charge? hence the 14ah to 12ah change on BKriss battery?
Kookie, I get your "theory" but why does the bike start again after leaving it "rest" for 30-60minutes? Does the auto-decompression mechanism somehow "mechanically" return to its start position ? Not sure I can understand that at all...especially as after the 30-60minutes the oil as you ask, would get cold essentially "thicker" and more friction to return???? Just a guess, as I do not understand how this mechanism works
I live in Lithuania and the temperature outside was about 10 degrees, and the same thing happened, but only once. Although the summer was hot and everything was fine.
Im also having this issue. Thanks for posting. 2019 R1250GSA with 11000 miles. don’t have my tools with me today and no one nearby with star bits. Now I need to find a ride to get my tools to troubleshoot. At least a have a good place to start with your updates. Thanks again.
SAME!!! 2020’1250 GSA, been doing this for close to two years now. 15 day solo Baja Adventure did it 9 times. Let’s not try to “figure out” ourselves what “could” or could not be the issue…. Not our job!! Bottom line is BMW knows about this, (worldwide issue), refuses to fix it under the pretense of “could not replicate…” And even with videos all over, showing bikes not starting are denying issue. It’s a shame, because the bike rides like a charm and I love it! SAD…
You are absolutely right.. It's a shame because many dealers refuses to fix it correctly.. This is one of the best bike in the world, but this issue ruins the expreience
@@bkriss i have a 4 day old gs, it's starting ok, but I'm concerned as my battery voltage drops quickly to 12.1 from fully charged when I turn the ignition on even briefly and doesn't rise again. If left overnight off the charger, it drops to 11.8. I certainly don't trust it not letting me down.
I own a 2019 R1250 GS Adventure which I bought new and I live in Victoria, Australia. I will keep this as short as possible and try and avoid going into any details that readers and fellow owners already know. I have experienced all the starting problems that have been documented by riders around the world for four years. The sudden and unexplained no-start events, the myriad of TFT screen fault messages etc. I do not know if this problem applies to every MY but it certainly applies to MY19, MY20 and MY21 as I have read user complaints online. I have used a total of four AGM batteries in four years, Exide (which caused problems in the first 3 weeks of bike delivery), Deka, Yuasa and SSB, all have been either 200 CCA or 240 CCA batteries. Batteries have always been fully charged and able to pass a load test when the bike failed to start and have been connected to an appropriate charger when the bike has not been in use. So battery problems are not confined to a specific batch of Exide batteries that were factory fitted by BMW when the bike was new. My son has an R1200 GS Adventure, he has used the same AGM batteries, and he has had zero starting problems over the four years that I have owned my bike. Regardless of the healthy status of all four AGM batteries the starting problems have always suggested that a battery power problem existed. Any mature vehicle system does not require changes to valve clearances, or require pushing whilst in gear, or any other unusual or creative change to get the vehicle to start. Does anyone have to do that with their car? Standard comments from BMW dealers have included ‘cannot replicate the fault’ and ‘they all do that’ along with others. Is BMW Motorrad really happy with that state of affairs? It has appeared so. I purchased a GOOLOO GP2000 lithium jump starter, it is small, light, and quick and easy to use. I carry it in my top box and it started the bike every time I needed it to. The bike started instantly and essentially proves that the complete starting circuit is serviceable provided that sufficient cranking power is available. BMW obviously made significant changes (mechanical & electrical) from the R1200 GS Adventure to the R1250 GS Adventure. When making those configuration changes did they carry out a detailed Power Management study under all user operating conditions, in all environments that users operate these bikes in, and over a reasonable period of time to ensure that the starting circuit for instance, from the battery right through to the starter motor and everything in-between, were compatible and actually worked? Only BMW know the answer to that question. I used the GOOLOO GP2000 for many months on many occasions to prove to myself that the starting circuit is serviceable enough to be operated as designed, and as delivered on the bike when it was new. Once I was convinced that the problem was the power source then I researched a safe and more capable alternative. You can research the various chemistries of Lithium batteries yourselves if you wish, I selected Lithium (Li) Iron (Fe) Phosphate (PO4) which is LiFePO4, it’s the safest battery chemistry and fit for purpose. I purchased a SSB Powersport Lithium Ultralite, LiFePO4, LFP14H-BS, 150mm X 87mm x 93mm. The battery came complete with screw on plastic spacers to raise the battery height to suit the motorcycle battery compartment. The bike now enthusiastically starts first time every time, under all conditions and as it should have done when I purchased it in the first place. I finally have the bike that I thought I purchased four years ago. Ignition has improved and all lights and displays have improved. If this problem went away at some production point then what was changed during production and why don’t all users know about it? Prior to starting the bike the ‘My Vehicle’ screen on the TFT display always shows a battery voltage approaching, or at, 13 volts I have an Ozcharge OC-PRO80L 12 volt 480ma LiFePO4 battery charger which I have not used again since I charged the battery when it was new straight out of the box. As soon as the charger tells you that the battery is fully charged then disconnect the charger. I have a charging pigtail lead fitted to the bike and I check the battery voltage with a meter via this lead before using the bike. The battery voltage is now always between 13.27 volts and 13.30 volts. The most the voltage ever drops in a week or more is 0.01 volts (1/100th of a volt) which is probably due to the bike internal clock and maybe a standby function of the keyless start module. The bike charging system is capable of keeping the battery charged and I will only use the battery charger/maintainer if the battery voltage ever drops below 13 volts which it hasn’t done and so far doesn’t look like it will. You do NOT, and SHOULD NOT, keep the appropriate battery charger/maintainer connected to your bike when the bike is not in use. Do I leave the GOOLOO GP2000 at home? No I don’t as I may meet a fellow R1250 GSA rider one day who is stuck at the side of the road/trail or next to a fuel pump in a service station because his bike will not start.
Hi again. I have a question for you if you don't mind. Since doing the Cam Alignment adjustment and Valve Clearance (in that order!) and for good measure, new sparks and Oil change AND fitting a MotoBatt AGB/Li Hybrid Battery I have not been having any more starting issues. I also checked the Auto Decompressors (OK) on both sides and set the Inlet valve clearances to 0.34-0.35mm. This new battery has a huge CCA (350). I guess I should of put the original battery in after I had done the work (I guess I was pretty fed up at the time and just wanted to finish it). Anyway, the engines spins into life very healthy and I monitored the cranking voltage and it drops to around 9.5V to 10V. I understand the Li battery (mine is a hybrid) the voltge drops approx 1v more than a AGM Battery during cranking. Okay, my question. Although no more starting issues, these '3 Dashes' on the Dash, the ones you show here do appear for a split second ( ~ 250ms I guess). I have not idea what these dash signify. Just wondered, if you knew? Thanks
First of all, on behalf of the others, thank you for your efforts and for writing down your experiences... Unfortunately, I can't try anymore because I sold the bike earlier. In answer to your question, unfortunately I don't know what the dashes on the flashing display mean, but I don't think they have any significance that would lead us to conclude anything.
Thank you. Of course, I understand. I thank you for all your hard work too in helping the many others. As I think I said. The bike is starting very well now (maybe its because I have the high power battery! :) The auto depressor is the only plausible thing I can think of. But comparing a new auto decompressor with mine i realised mine is okay. Anyway, I have an appointment with my dealer (first!) to just tell me if the sw version I have is OK and also I will ask the question about the 3 dashes as I am curious. I will put my findings in the comments on my youtube video. Okay, Happy Riding @@bkriss
So I've had this same problem and I think it is a software issue. If you turn the ignition on, the bike will not activate some features which drain a lot of current, like for instance heated grips, front/fog lights and such. As soon as you start the bike, these features become available. But when you turn off the ignition (at least on a keyless bike), it doesn't really turn off. It stays 'standby' for a limited time (10-15 minutes or so?). You will find that the 12V Mini-DIN power plug next to the HUD will stay powered on for some period of time. I also believe that AFTER this time, the ECU will be really shut down, in stead of the 'standby' mode. It is only then that all parameters are reset, including those for the high-current-drain features, which could (!) affect starting. Since I'm not able to reproduce the issue by triggering it somehow, it's really hard to test, but what I would like to ask: if someone does have this issue, turn it off, let the bike sit for half an hour without fiddling with it, and then try again starting it. It would be even better if you could recognize the on/off state by using a Mini-DIN accessory with a LED light or something, so you could check the ECU-state.
Just happened to me for the first time. Exactly the same story after 20 min or so ride, I went to fill up the tank after that couldn’t start! Took off battery terminals, retighten them, waited 20 min, bike started as nothing happened! Went to my workshop, cleaned the terminals added some contact lube on terminals to prevent oxidation, just in case I added thread lock, measured the voltage, bike does charge the battery, checked battery status it almost full! Strange! Either there is some glitch with the bike which resets it self in while or indeed battery terminals where to loose, but it didn’t fill like! Don’t like situations like this, especially on GS which is meant to go to remote locations! Maybe 20 minutes rule is the key to fix the problem/glitch in short term!
I have the same issue. It only happens when you turn on the ignition and do not start the the bike. If you start the bike within say 30 seconds of turning on the ignition it will start. I replicated this at the dealer and they kept the bike for 2 weeks. They told me that the factory knows this is a condition with some bikes and they did not have a fix yet. I have since moved to another state and the nearest BMW dealer is 2 hours away. Supposedly, the factory is working on a fix and BMW told me it would be covered under warranty.
I had the same problem, took it bmw and they replaced the battery with a more powerful one as part of a PUMA notice from BMW, basically a known fault by the factory. Shame you have to breakdown and get recovered before it gets fixed! Shame on you BMW.
I have EXACTLY the same issue! Every time these ‘hard starts’ more or less same frequency as you described. 2 days ago it suddenly made a very strange sound I actually never heard before and did not want to start at all anymore. BMW services picked up the bike and brought it to my BMW dealer. Hope they find a structural solution! R1250 GSA - The Netherlands PS: thanks a lot for sharing this video, really good initiative man! Let’s also see how many experience the same
I had exactly the same problem same faults due to battery load, also I had drop sensor faulty and limited traction control faults!! New battery and also software update seemed to solve it but I lost faith and sold the bike .. it rode worse than me 2014 wc and was so unreliable .. I have s1000 xr now , let me k le if you get to the bottom of it , good luck that’s for sharing this !
The exact same thing has just happened to me, lucky I was very close to home and managed to push it back, when I did get home it started, it wasn’t till I watched this clip that I realised my bike seems to find it hard to start all the time, never having owned one before I just thought this was normal. Typically this kind of thing always happens when everywhere is closed, so will have to wait till they open in new year to get this investigated more
I have gone through the same issue two days ago and now I ‘ve changed the battery that was only 15 months old. The CCA of the battery wasn’t enough to crank the engine. The new battery is working fine and I will monitor the bike closely from now on.
I live in Australia, and own a 2019 R1250GSA - I have had same problem 2 times in 2 years! Dealer knew nothing. Interesting to read the comments as it seems a "common" issue. Glad to see your video as it is exactly same as my issue. Interesting BKRISS the dealer changed battery to 12ah...doesnt make sense. I recently had 40,000klm service - battery was checked as perfect ( original battery! ) Valve clearances as per BMW spec - Have you had any more issues since 04/2021?
Hi David! I think the dealer change the battery due to the possibility of a defective battery product series.. I haven't got any more issues since they set my valve clearances.. It's interesting, that you have this issue two times during 40k Kms.. for it is more characteristic that the error occurs almost continuously
Ive had this exact thing happen twice now, both times had to call BMW assist, the first time seemed to be a loose battery connector, but i went out today and same thing occured, exactly as described, short ride, stopped for a short time and wont start. seemed very much like a battery issue. Today, by the time the BMW assist came, the bike started fine. Weird. Im onto the BMW garage tomorrow to see what they say. it seems an identical issue to the video and other comments. ill update when ive been in to see them. As it stands the bike is not usable if you pull in for gas and no able to proceed. What if you simply stall it somewhere, maybe at a junction? could be dangerous really.
i have exacte same problem, run for ex: an hour stop for filling gas and it does't want to start again like yours. R1250GS 2019 3600KM. Send it to the dealer but I have to wait 1 week before they start looking at it!! will see. I'm from Quebec Canada
@@bkriss No, last April, I sold my R1250 because of this problem. I will probably buy a new one next year. Maybe the Super Tenere for the shaft drive or triumph 900 or a basic vstom 650XA
Hi, yes sounds the same as mine. BMW did as you know do various checks and changed the battery & starter. Today after 5 months idle, the bike started first time. So , new starter, battery , software down load and valve adjustment. No more problems. Ps when I checked the fault codes before sending it to BMW it was a crazy amount showing up. Also the voltage drop with the old battery was very high and the battery could not revive enough to start a second Time. Wish I could tell you more , but not all battery problem I believe, starter / software ??? Mystery.
The problem is that the positive and negative wiring are not tight enough, so the batteri doesn’t deliver sufficiently power to start normally the bike. Try to tight harder the possitive and negative cable. The problem should solve
Szia! R1250R 2019-es motorommal idén kezdődtek ugyan ezek a problémák. 15000 km van benne. 3 nyarat vígan motoroztam, míg idén egy rémálom. 3-szor vitte haza tréler a motort. Most is a nyíregyházi MAG3 szervizben van. Szerintük az indítómotor tekercszárlatos, de még ez nem biztos. Még vizsgálgatják... Meg tudnád adni az elérhetőségedet esetleg, hogy bővebben beszéljünk az esetleges megoldásról? Előre is köszi.
Nekem ue. (már bikakábellel mászkálok). -2021 R1250GS - Teljesen random, hogy beindul-e. Amíg azt hittem, hogy az aksi, addig nyugodt voltam. Neked lett valami megoldás? Nekem kb. 25000 km.-nél kezdte, 2023 novemberben.
I had the same with my GS adventure, from September 2021 37.700km about a year and half old. I wanted start it in the morning, bike sleeps outside -10°C, and it wouldn’t start, i tried 6times. I put the rain cover on and a hot air blower underneath for 15min; after the onboard computer showed +4°C i could start the engine on the first try. Mid December 2022. End of January 2023 same problem , this time I started the bike at +2°C and rode for some 5-7km, parked for 10min and couldn’t make it start again no matter what. Got it on a trailer and brought it to the dealership/mechanic (official BMW motorrad Berlin) they checked the battery, changed it (for free) and handed me back the motorcycle the next day. Now it starts without problems (only tried at -1°C) and I’m curious how long it will last, because i red on forums this is a quite common problem for the BMW 1250 engine.
My 2021 R1250 GSA has failed to start on a few occasions and it only has 300 miles on it as it is 2 weeks old. I carry a portable jumper just in case but if it happens anymore I will seek my dealers help in finding the issue. One thought was I left the ignition on to long trying to learn the TFT without it running but then I charged it over night and it did it again just like in the video, BMW has to make this right for all of us.
G'day, I have the exact issue. Dealer replaced the battery and updated software. Other issue I have is any gear, between 2500-3000 rpm my bike surge as you can actually see it's revv wave in the screen. Revving goes up and down constantly at constant speed in any gear between 2500 and 3000. You actually feel the surge on the bike. After SW update haven't been able to test yet.
2019 GSA in UK and same random issue. Have written to BMW. I think it is related to valve clearances but do not want the cost of checking if not required.
So I have a 2019 RT with the same exact sounding issue. After 15 minute start to yesterdays ride, bike would not start. What was resolution? I’m scheduled to take the bike in for PM service in a few weeks snd would like to suggest they learn from your resolution. Thanks in advance.
Hi bkriss, Can I ask what the current status is now? (Assuming you still have the bike) I have a R1250GS (2019) with only around 5k on the clock. This is been happening recently, exactly what you explained and filmed (Thank you) Initially I was so confused with all these random error notices - so now, this makes sense due to the really depressed voltage on starting. Sometimes it happens regardless of engine temperature and sometimes its normal. I changed the battery for a 240 CCA (standard is 200CCA) hoping that would solve the problem. NO! (Terminals wire brushed and cleaned/tightened) So now, looking at something you (or one of your readers) mentioned; Decompression. As I understand there is an automated mechanism that partially lifts the exhaust valve on each cylinder to aid cranking. If the Exhaust valve clearance is too large, the valve is not opening sufficiently. So, I checked the service manual and this appears to be: 0.34mm to 0.41mm. Therefore, my next job is to start digging into 'Knowhow' and measure and set my clearances to 0.34/0.35 (Cold Engine of course) Gosh I hope this fixes this!! Thanks again to you and all the people who provides their inputs. Wish me luck, will be needing it!
Thanks for your story.. I think you are on the right track to solving the problem. I sold my bike last year because I didn't trust it, although it was symptom-free after valve clearance adjustments. Battery replacement and valve clearance adjustment combined pretty much solved my problem. BUT I emphasize that this is my case! There are simply so many such error phenomena that it is difficult to say the reasons. In my case, I was bothered by the fear that I have to ALWAYS keep the value of the valve clearance to a minimum, in order for it to start for sure. Good luck for you!
@bkriss Good morning. Thank you so much for replying so quickly. Your words have provided me with reassurance. I've now got the information on how to check the valve clearances and change out the shims. I just need to buy a few specialist tools as I will be needing them for every service! Will upload a guide afterwards on my little channel for others. Apart from this issue, I really love the bike. Let's see how it goes. Good luck with your new bike and once again, thanks for your video which really put me on the right track as you said. Bye.
@@bkriss Hi again. Okay GOOD NEWS I think... I have just completed the Valve Clearance checks. Prior to commencing, I attempted 10 starts. 4 were without problem and the other 6 were failures. (Didn't start or stuttered and started). The Valve Clearances are: INLET 0.10mm to 0.17mm respectively. EXHAUST 0.34mm to 0.41mm. (There are 2 inlets and 2 exhaust valves on each cylinder of course) On the LHS Cylinder the Exhaust clearances were 0.40mm and 0.41mm!!! On the RHS Cylinder the clearances were 0.35mm and 0.36mm. So, I adjusted the LHS Cylinder to 0.35mm and 0.36mm by replacing these shims with larger shims (thickness). Whilst I had everything out, I checked and adjusted the INLETS as well. On completion of reassembly and checks (couple of hours ago) I crossed my fingers and did the first start! Fired up immediately and was definitely quicker and healthier. I then let her warm up (as it is still sub zero temps here in the UK) and restarted many times ( ~ 8 ) and all perfect. I will be doing starts in the garage for the next few days as further checks. So, I think the problem was the excessive exhaust valve clearances in the LHS cylinder which I think wasn't allowing the cylinder to be decompressed adequately to allow the starter to cleanly start the engine. Anyway, I am hoping this is a fix! Fingers crossed. I didn't make a video but I did take photos which I will hopefully produce a montage with 'knowhow' information on how I did the valve clearances and pop it up into my little channel, Of course, there are a few people out there who have already done this. A big thanks to you and indeed all the others who suggested this exhaust valve clearance issue. Anyway, I will get back in a few days with an update and also a ref for the valve clearance procedure incase anybody wants it.
@@CLLUK Hi! Thank you for reporting on the repair progress! And I am very happy that the work invested seems to be successful. I hope for further successful tests as well! The photo repair report will surely be useful to many people.
Have the same bike and exactly the same issue since new. After numerous visits to BMW it seems they resolved it by changing the battery and re-setting valve clearance.
I had the same problem on my 2017 s1000rr. Battery tested perfect and always on Optimate but was getting random dash errors. I fitted an aftermarket battery and been fine since.
Hi. This issue arose for me this morning on my 2019 1250. I stopped for a fill up after about 20 mins riding. Bike wouldn't start. I assumed it was the battery as it was a very cold night. I managed to get the bike started and back to dealer. They checked out the battery. This was fine. The mechanic told me it was more than likely an issue with valve compression so I have my bike booked in to sort this out. If it does happen to others I was advised to leave the bike sit for 15-20 mins when it should start ok. Don't keep trying to restart. Regards, KC
I have the identical situation. Bought a new battery and I still get the problem. I now have to go everywhere with a jump-start power pack. Great on an £18K motorcycle!
An hour ago I had the same problem with my 1250 GSA from 2019. The motorcycle is actually permanently connected to the BMW battery charger, so I actually expect the battery's performance to be sufficient to start the engine at all times. However, that definitely wasn't enough today and the engine only started with the help of a booster. But then immediately and completely problem-free. The 40,000 service is due in 2 weeks. I'm curious what the workshop says... 
Same thing happened today on my 2019 model. At a junction. Tried starting multiple times and after maybe 10th try it just started when I was committed to push it back home. Did you find out what it was?
It does not take much at all for the battery terminals to be loose enough to cause erratic behaviors of the electronic warning system. When it happens to me, I tighten the terminal and all returns to normal. BMW replaced my battery already once due to this issue arcing the ground terminal. As I posted earlier, the solution is Loctite and a lock washer.
The problem i found on my 2019 R1250GS was my left cylinder decompression mechanism has a very week spring. The spring is supposed to pull in the weighted mechanism that would keep the forward exhaust cam (bottom of the cam “pin” turned to the round side that would assist in opening up the front exhaust valve when it would normally be fully closed. This allows the engine to spin freely during initial cranking. Once the engine spins fast enough the centrifical weights or mechanism overcomes the spring (thats supposed to hold it in) and as they splay outward they turn the pin thats located on the opposite side or 180 degrees from the high point of the exhaust cam to the flat retracted part. Why the starting issue only happens when it is warm when i stop for gas is a mystery. When it happens and not every time, i pull out my booster pack and it starts right up with the added juice. Think if it happens again i will put my bike in 6th gear and roll the wheel thru a full turn to reposition the cam and see if that helps ? I stumbled onto this and have video when i was checking my valve adjustments. Right cylinder had plenty of spring force to keep that side pulled in. My left side cylinder was just flopping around and if it happened to be facing down it would turn to the flat side of the pin and not dump the compression out exhaust.. i took video.
I checked my decompressors both sides. Okay (put a video on my channel). Set my exhaust clearances to min (~ 0.34/0.35mm). I actually also put a AGM/lithium hybrid battery in (360CCA). It turns over okay now. Early days. I notice when it starts i seee momentarily 3 or 4 dashs appear/disappear. Don't know if this is normally. I have a battery guard monitor module fitted and it records the voltage at cranking. (not sure how accurate this is) and shows 9V-10V. I guess this is normally. When it struggled way back in time, it drops to around 6V-7V.
I am experiencing the exact same problem with my 2019 GSA1250. After a short ride (about 20 min) and a brief stop (e.g. gas station) it occasionally fails to start. Exact same sound as in the video. It seems to happen in fairly cold conditions (around 0C). My first time was in January 2020. It worked again the next day and I forgot all about it. Until earlier this month, it happend on two consecutive nights (with a dealer battery replacement in between). The latest diagnose from my dealer is; a problematic batch of batteries. I should now have a proper one. Unfortunately this does not yet give me the confidence I require from my daily commuter bike. I will now point them to this thread and ask them to check the exhaust valve clearance. Thanks all for this information! I will post results here.
I've had that problem a couple of times, but it usually started on the next try. I'm guessing it has to do with the decompression devices on the exhaust cams not doing their job.
So many different problems with batteries, valve clearance, shafts, … Trying to get a new *and* fault free US$ >20.000 1250GS looks very much like inverted Russian Roulette to me. I was thinking of getting such a bike, but I guess I’ll keep my Honda Crossrunner that has less gizmos but isn’t much worse comfort and performance wise, and in which I can trust during the next long trip.
Ok all I can say my 1250 2020 had the same issue I can report back that BMW changed my aftermarket Toplite YTX14-BS to the original BMW Battery as attached and problem solved. I am very happy now...
Interesting. I've read quite a few people saying that changing to a OEM battery (in many cases people changing out their after market 240CCA or a lot higher) for the standard 200CCA. Don't understand, maybe turning the engine over a fraction slower somehow doesn't throw out the decompressors...
I just ordred a Bosch MC-batteri Lithium LTX20CH-BS for mine. Had this problem since I bought mine in 2019. But I had 40.000 km anyway over 3 seson. So looking forward to get the new battery and have it fired up.
My R1250GS Adventure 2019 has this same issue. The bike starts ok, I go for a quick ride (10 mins) stop for fuel and then it won't start (exactly the same as your video). First time it happened BMW fitted a new battery. Now it's happened again (2 weeks later). I will be sending the bike back to BMW as it doesn't seem to be a battery issue.
Exactly the same problem here with my 2019 GSA1250, down even to the same error messages. BMW here in Rome can't find an error log nor replicate it. Have changed the battery once, trickle charge it once a week, 2 software updates, but still get the same hot start problem and have to always travel with a booster. It works but is a pain in the neck and should not be necessary on a 20k$ bike. My last attempt will be to install an Antigravity bluetooth battery tracker to try and figure if it is in fact a battery issue or something else (shiftcam related?)
Same issue with my 2019 1250gs. Starts after 30-40 minutes (I guess after something cools down). I have noticed this happens when I don’t use the trickle charger overnight.
Same problem for me. GSA 1250 hp 2021. A lot of hard starts with very often a message on traction control out of order « drive safely » and today after a 30mn ride I stop 5 mn and then impossible to restart. I pushed the bike for 300m, just gave it a 10th chance to start and engine started as if nothing happened before …. Not reliable ….
Unsurprisingly I’m another unfortunate 1250 GSA owner who has just experienced the same fault. Had trouble getting started the last few times I’ve ridden the bike but I always got it going. Yesterday I stopped for a coffee and it wouldn’t restart. Drop sensor and traction control error messages! Called BMW assist to recover the bike but tried again after about half an hour waiting and it started fine! 2019 model 10500 miles. Will be calling dealer tomorrow to see what they say. It’s clearly a known fault so let’s see if they’ll admit that??! Battery terminals all ok nothing looks amiss.
Hi Charles! I'm sad to hear about your issue.. please let us know what the dealer say to you and any solution.. Yes it's a known fault, but BMW didn't inform the owners community about this.
@@bkriss well I dropped my bike into the BMW garage today and they’ve called me back to say that there’s a problem with the alternator and the battery. Both will be changed under the warranty but it could be some time as they have to get approval first from Germany, then order the parts and then get a workshop slot! I think it’s going to be a while. At least it’s being sorted and I’m not so bothered at this time of year not having my bike! -3 this morning 🥶!
I had 2 GSA for a period of 10 years, never had a single problem (2004 model and 2008 model ) perhaps the electronic was made in Germany on the time !!! Where it is made today??? For over $25000 ( oooops … painful )
Hi , looks like you have a faulty battery, you need a 200cca battery on that bike I recommend Deka they are not cheap but they are good . On BMW s you need at least 170cca , also the corrent draw should go away after a few minutes when the can/Lin bus shuts down try to disconnect your sat nav and see if is due any update the problem could be your sat nav not letting the can/Lin bus shut down and make sure you don’t have anything else connected to the battery and also check the battery terminals They need to be clean and tight.👍
I had the same problem, difficult start once after a 20 min stop, then no start at all after a gas station stop, with 3 error messages: drop sensor/switch error (this one appeared just once, at the first unsuccessful start, I did not manage to take a photo), followed by "Fault in the engine control" and "Traction control limited". This happened at about 2.400 Km, 3 months old 1250 GS. Went to the dealer and the causes were: 1. loose battery screws, actually one of the screws were (from minus/ground) was damaged due to the imperfect contact and 2. Exhaust valve adjust, which was out of the operation limits. So now at each start I fill it ios better, as the engine does not "hesitate" to start for half a second or so. All of you, make sure the battery screws are tight, as an easy fix!
My 2020 1250GSA is having exactly the same problem,. It first happened a year ago, it was checked by the dealer then and they couldn’t find anything. It has been fine for almost year and now it has failed to start a few more times always after a short ride. Have you found a cause? My battery benched tested perfectly as well.
same problem on my r1250gs my 2019, first time the dealer told me that the issue was on negative cable, it wasn't tight enough. After they said to fix i had other several time this problem at starting time, is random, it happens when the motorcycle is hot but also when is cold (at first start). I use a portable booster, and every time i have this issue i solve it using my little booster. Last week i changed my battery with a lithium one (Skyrich HJTX14H-FP 12V 48Wh 240Ah), the result is that i still have this problem, the difference is that after the first time i fail to start the motorcycle, the second time is ok maybe because the lithium battery warm up! I have no confidence in BMW dealer, easy to identify the cause in one our...there are months i'm fighting against this bug...hope someone will find the SOLUTION...i'm looking forward to her good news
Spoke to the Stealership today, Basically they cannot find a fault or a log of the fault, not can they re create the problem so they are replacing the battery and placed an order for one, I told him about a few other vids on here of their bikes doing the same as mine and they will look into it more, Hope the Battery fix works tho
Hi the jobello. Thats basically what mine was doing apart from the sat nav. . My dealer is not admitting to knowing about this issue. And kept talking about the battery. U cant hear it too well on the vid clips but im swaying towards a starter motor solenoid sticking and the electonics of the bike are shutting down to preserve itself. Im hoping the replacement battery will work but i couldnt find anything wrong with the origional 😖
I have just bought a 2020 1250GS HP exactly the same issue it's been to BMW dealership 3 times now in fact at this moment and they are also trying the valve clearances recommendation now. Two new batteries tried and tested so far. It's frustrating.
Same issue. My brand new bike. Second day. And the dealer replaced the battery. Did not fix the problem. Sending it back next week for further diagnosis. Interested on what was the common problem.
@@bkriss thanks heaps bud for sharing the info. I have passed the info to the dealer and hopefully they will sort it out next week. Shame that this happens on my second day of getting a brand new bike. I would have thought bmw has some kind of knowledge management system where they know and able eliminate this issue faster rather than guessing. Furthermore, this issue seems to be common according to all the people here whom experiences the exact issue.
Here is what I think the problem is as I have had this happen to me many times with 2019 GSA. The ground terminal on the battery seems to vibrate loose enough to cause this starting issue. I just had the issue today as a matter of fact. The issue can be serious enough to short the battery terminal and basically melt it down from arcing. When you tighten the negative terminal on the battery, the bike will start right away. I am going to remedy mine with loctite and a lock washer.
2020 GS same issue. Firmware has been updated but same thing has happened twice since. TFT says brake light fault, light working front and back no problem. Leave bike for an hour starts no problem.
Exactly the same just happened today, 01/30/22 on my 2020 R1250 GSA w/3,000 miles. This is the 2nd time. First time BMW said loose connection, firmware update. Need to source a jump kit to keep handy. I thought I purchased a BMW, but it is acting like a Harley leaving me stranded.
I have taken main fuse out /50 amp/ cleaned contacts with steel wool and put stainless washers underneath the cheese head screws. Up to now no further trouble. Here’s hoping.
My Brand New 2023 is doing this with less than 100 miles in the bike. I replaced the battery and it started fine several times. I let it sit over night and now it will not start. It tries to start and fires for a split second and then dies. Its going to the dealer tomorrow. Makes me think I should have went with the Moto Guzzi or Pan American.
I have a new 1250 hp ralley with 273miles on it and the same start problem, thought it was just a under charged battery but no. It will need looking at on the first service.
Does anyone has a solution we could apply? It looks like OEM services are completely useless and every single one say something else. So if not solved, how did you go on? with jump starts? as I am in the same situation and planning my trips in the way that I only stop at the petrol station, its becoming so stressful, that I am planning to sell it. Especially having huge problem with ESA which again, BMW did not solved and only wished me the best. Sad situation indeed.
Seems like too much resistance in the battery. Happens especially with (also strong) Li-Ion batteries at temperatures under 10 degrees C. The engine needs so much current when it starts at cold (no decompression mechanism) that the batterie voltage drops under 8 volt. If this takes too long (2 compressions), the starter circuit is cut for 30 seconds. During cold time, use lead batteries. In need, leave all the lights on to warm up the batterie a bit. Dangerous situation when you stall on a cross-road. No space for larger batteries (also placed by far too high). To my modest opinion, bad engineering on this topic. Good luck, ride safe.
Same issue on my 2020GS HP. 2 new batteries, valves adjusted, all ignition components checked and tested by 2 different BMW dealerships and the problem continues no one seems to have an answer.
I have 2023 bmw gs adv trophy and l had the same problem. I had to use a jump starter. I took the bike to the service. They said there were some issues in the brain and they have cleared them all. I had let the bike to lie down 4 times. It kept the logs so it caused the not starting problem they said.
It is the battery it was a bad run, I work at Williams Manchester motorad, we found the problem. Almost 15 months ago then BMW rolled the fix when they questioned us why we changed do many new batterys.
Not sure its a bad battery. I had the exact same issue and upgraded the battery at my own expense. Thought i fixed it but had the issue again a few days ago.
@@chiselcheswick5673 needs further investigation, may require a firmware update or possible a charging system, get this checked asap as the last thing you want is pay for the engine to be removed and stripped down as the charging system is under the gearbox. :)
Any update? i have the 2020 1250 gsa hp and the battery didn’t have enough power to crank it, it seems like the issue might the the lithium battery, they dont work well on cold
Renato Shehu ... from what I hear. LiPo has to be woken up. Or warmed up a little before it has full working capacity. Look it up I found a few forums on this
Hi Renato! There is some discussion about this on Advrider: advrider.com/f/threads/r1250gs-starting-problem.1418465/page-2#post-39008344 My problem is different and still dont have any solution...
4 ปีที่แล้ว
I have the same problem on my 1250 GS HP 2019. The battery does not seem to be the problem, we have tried with three different batteries. I don't have the LiPo on my bike since it was introduced 2020. You can read my info here: th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html
Ok do its happened to me a few more times. Booked it in again later today. Im now starting to think its the starter or the solonoid as every time i check the battery it reads fine tho its proper crap when cold😖
4 ปีที่แล้ว +1
Thanks@@barryporter4593 Let me know if they find something.
Just got my new 21 plate and it does the same thing. They had battery and starter problems on 19 plates so traded it in. Dealer has had new bike three times and cannot fault the problem. Still with them☹️
@@bkriss dealer rang me today. Re set the valve clearance and this morning the starting failed again. Now the battery upgraded and for me to try. Will keep you posted.
Exactly the same issue went to the dealer for the first visit 1000km, check everything nobody find the reason. did someone get an answer to this, I am very upset just 2000km
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
4 ปีที่แล้ว
New update added 24:th of January th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html When I check the different places that I link to I find that we are 25 persons that are experiencing this kind of problem with our bikes. It would be really nice if you could write a comment here if you experience the same problem. th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html !!! Write what bike, year and where you live !!! E.g R1250GS, 2019, Sweden I want to determine if its based on geography/different batches of the bike. It seems like i'm the only one in Sweden with this problem. Have a nice weekend //Patric
Same problem on my 2020gs. Happened twice. Once after stopping for gas after riding for 30 minutes, and another after going into a grocery store after a 10 minute ride. Both times I turned bike off and back on and then it started (struggled start). Anyone have a recent update for solution?
HI same thing happened to me bike has broken dowen 5 time BMW not sorting the problem out all will not litening to all of us pay top prices for these thinds and get very bad customor service awating news on my bike cos the BMW Tech cant fing out the problem with it but it will not start come one
Hi, Having the same problem on my r1250 gsa 2020. I've got him now for 1 week and 3 day's, for the moment he has 421 Km. For the moment he is still by the dealer for to look the problem.
@@adventuremind5503 I have for the moment no more problem.The dealer said that the battery was low, and that de GPS tracker the one was for this problem, because it was not an BMW accessories. My conclusion is that he also didn't now it.
![일상 속 기분 좋음 [Proto disco meme]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/DwmEIaZ7XGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
UPDATE (2021. 04.)
The dealer (service) called me. They contacted with the BMW and at the suggestion of the factory, the following was done: Both side exhaust valve clearance set to factory minimal (0,34-0,35 or something) + change the battery to this type: BMW 61-21-8-394-179. This is a grey covered new 12V 12Ah battery, which is actually a kind of lower capacity battery (the factory battery as you can see in my video is a 12/14 Ah battery, code number: 61-21-8-389-125). Now the bike works good, but I need to test for any issues. The dealer said if there will be any similar starting problem, they will take more serious action from the importer (BMW).
UPDATE (2021. 03.)
My bike failed to start again, like in the video.. 40 minutes later it started normally, without any operation (charging etc..) Calling the service again, I'm afraid it is much more complicated issue, than a valve clearance or a battery issue.. This new BMW is an unusable bike now.
UPDATE (2021. 02.)
My bike did the same fault as before - so far only once.. so the problem still exist.. Please leave a comment if you had the same issue and has been solved properly!
UPDATE (2020. 01.)
Last week (2020. january) called me the dealer they have found the problem and reapired it.
Earlier they updated the software but nothing has changed. (My bike engine code: 0J91 - Europe, Hungary 2019.)
As I had guessed earlier they said the problem was the compression. Compression release did not work consistently on the left cylinder. That's why it will start sometimes, depending on if the bad side is on compression on that first turn. Not the automatic decompressor was the defective part, it works perfectly. The problem is the exhaust VALVE CLEARANCE they said. The clearance was too big (even within tolerance) so they adjusted it (within factory tolerance) because with this factory setting the decompressor cam did not open the valve as much as it should.
So if your bike doing similar malfunctions measure the compression, its a simple process!
I don’t know how they made the adjustment, because the valve clearance adjusted by steel balls, they may change the ball to bigger size (to reduce the clearance).
Here is a video of a 1200 wethead adjustment: th-cam.com/video/OqWgZTkFeM8/w-d-xo.html
I am wondering how can this 20.000$ bike come out from factory with this settings than can cause this kind of severe malfunction.
Anyway, I am happy and I can finally enjoy my bike.
More information and exchange of experience in this Adv.Rider topic: advrider.com/f/threads/r1250gs-starting-problem.1418465/
And after you picked the bike up from the dealer, was it better.?
bkriss köszi a videót! Nekem is hasonló gondjaim vannak, most vettem a motort a Wallisnál. Kb értem amit leírtál, de magyarul is le tudod írni, hogy mi ez? Nekem most 400km van a motorba, nemsokára viszem az első szervizre és szeretném ezt jelenteni. Idáig csak az első indításnál vettem ezt észre, 5 fokban. Holnap melegebb lesz, kiváncsi vagyok, hogy csinálja-e, de egy 8 milliós új motornál ez elég gáz jelenség.
That’s good to know my GS is doing the same thing. 500 miles and no start about 8 times. 2 hours to the dealer with no relief. Once pulled in head to head with 2 Harley riders. They loved it.
That's great. Glad it is sorted, well so far.🤔
Set my valves to .inlet 0.14. Exhaust 0.39 for your information.
I believe this is an issue with the Auto-Decompression mechanism, located on the exhaust cams. The decompressor cam arm is failing to remain in it's "start" position when cranking - it is a speed sensitive centrifugal mechanism, active at cranking speed, deactivated at firing speed and higher.
At cranking speed, the decompressor cam arm is in it's "Start" position - this presents a small additional "lobe" on the base circle of the FWD exhaust cam lobes, removing the normal FWD exhaust valve clearance, partially opening those exhaust valves on base circle BDC, providing cylinder decompression.
When the engine fires, the decompressor cam arm rotates out to a "Run" position (due to centrifugal force), the rotation removes the additional "lobe" from the FWD exhaust lobe base circle and the normal exhaust valve clearance is reinstated, hence also removing the cylinder decompression.
Seems the advice from BMW to reduce exhaust valve clearance (to absolute minimum) indicates they were aware the decompressor mechanism was failing to act on the exhaust valve. By installing a lower capacity battery (assumed lower CCA also ?) would possibly result in an overall lower cranking speed, thus ensuring the decompressor cam arm remained in the "Start" position, rather than deactivating to the Run position on cranking, due to too high a cranking speed ?
The symptoms occurring on attempted re-start, following a short ride could be due to a higher battery voltage (charged during ride out) and lower oil viscosity (Hot engine), resulting in Higher cranking speed - decompressor mechanism deactivating to "run" position as a result. (?)
I wonder if this issue is more prevalent in hotter climates ? Would a higher viscosity oil (or even change of brand) cure the problem (?) - Reducing the cranking speed may be the cure ... ???
Your solution is partially correct, but there is an important detail: when you try to start the bike from a short ride, the starter motor does not rotate the engine fast. Just like in the video. Thats why it is completely incomprehensible. In a hot engine the valve clearance is even smaller, so the decomp mechanism schould work better...
Hi Kookie - your explanation seems very plausible....I live in Australia and have had this starting issue 2 times - each time has been AFTER the bike had been on the Optimate 4 battery charger for 3 or 4 days - in Can-bus mode!! Same scenario, short 30minute ride, fill up with petrol, then would not start - but did so after 40minutes!! Each time the day was not hot, about 17C degrees. So your theory of higher voltage could be right, having had the bike on the charger for a few days?? I use Motul 5100 oil 10w/40 , BMW recommends 5w/40 so the oil viscosity may be an issue....although each time it has done it the motor was at operating temp. So not sure on this point. All my rides are long, never commuting so I believe my battery is ok ( original with 43,000klms ) and was checked last service by BMW specialist as being perfect! Very strange. But also if the auto-decompression unit is the problem, why does it start after a 30-40minute wait? Perhaps the battery has lost some charge? hence the 14ah to 12ah change on BKriss battery?
Kookie, I get your "theory" but why does the bike start again after leaving it "rest" for 30-60minutes? Does the auto-decompression mechanism somehow "mechanically" return to its start position ? Not sure I can understand that at all...especially as after the 30-60minutes the oil as you ask, would get cold essentially "thicker" and more friction to return???? Just a guess, as I do not understand how this mechanism works
I live in Lithuania and the temperature outside was about 10 degrees, and the same thing happened, but only once. Although the summer was hot and everything was fine.
Im also having this issue. Thanks for posting. 2019 R1250GSA with 11000 miles. don’t have my tools with me today and no one nearby with star bits. Now I need to find a ride to get my tools to troubleshoot. At least a have a good place to start with your updates.
Thanks again.
SAME!!! 2020’1250 GSA, been doing this for close to two years now. 15 day solo Baja Adventure did it 9 times.
Let’s not try to “figure out” ourselves what “could” or could not be the issue…. Not our job!!
Bottom line is BMW knows about this, (worldwide issue), refuses to fix it under the pretense of “could not replicate…” And even with videos all over, showing bikes not starting are denying issue.
It’s a shame, because the bike rides like a charm and I love it! SAD…
You are absolutely right.. It's a shame because many dealers refuses to fix it correctly.. This is one of the best bike in the world, but this issue ruins the expreience
@@bkriss i have a 4 day old gs, it's starting ok, but I'm concerned as my battery voltage drops quickly to 12.1 from fully charged when I turn the ignition on even briefly and doesn't rise again. If left overnight off the charger, it drops to 11.8. I certainly don't trust it not letting me down.
I own a 2019 R1250 GS Adventure which I bought new and I live in Victoria, Australia. I will keep this as short as possible and try and avoid going into any details that readers and fellow owners already know. I have experienced all the starting problems that have been documented by riders around the world for four years. The sudden and unexplained no-start events, the myriad of TFT screen fault messages etc. I do not know if this problem applies to every MY but it certainly applies to MY19, MY20 and MY21 as I have read user complaints online. I have used a total of four AGM batteries in four years, Exide (which caused problems in the first 3 weeks of bike delivery), Deka, Yuasa and SSB, all have been either 200 CCA or 240 CCA batteries. Batteries have always been fully charged and able to pass a load test when the bike failed to start and have been connected to an appropriate charger when the bike has not been in use. So battery problems are not confined to a specific batch of Exide batteries that were factory fitted by BMW when the bike was new.
My son has an R1200 GS Adventure, he has used the same AGM batteries, and he has had zero starting problems over the four years that I have owned my bike.
Regardless of the healthy status of all four AGM batteries the starting problems have always suggested that a battery power problem existed. Any mature vehicle system does not require changes to valve clearances, or require pushing whilst in gear, or any other unusual or creative change to get the vehicle to start. Does anyone have to do that with their car? Standard comments from BMW dealers have included ‘cannot replicate the fault’ and ‘they all do that’ along with others. Is BMW Motorrad really happy with that state of affairs? It has appeared so.
I purchased a GOOLOO GP2000 lithium jump starter, it is small, light, and quick and easy to use. I carry it in my top box and it started the bike every time I needed it to. The bike started instantly and essentially proves that the complete starting circuit is serviceable provided that sufficient cranking power is available. BMW obviously made significant changes (mechanical & electrical) from the R1200 GS Adventure to the R1250 GS Adventure. When making those configuration changes did they carry out a detailed Power Management study under all user operating conditions, in all environments that users operate these bikes in, and over a reasonable period of time to ensure that the starting circuit for instance, from the battery right through to the starter motor and everything in-between, were compatible and actually worked? Only BMW know the answer to that question.
I used the GOOLOO GP2000 for many months on many occasions to prove to myself that the starting circuit is serviceable enough to be operated as designed, and as delivered on the bike when it was new. Once I was convinced that the problem was the power source then I researched a safe and more capable alternative. You can research the various chemistries of Lithium batteries yourselves if you wish, I selected Lithium (Li) Iron (Fe) Phosphate (PO4) which is LiFePO4, it’s the safest battery chemistry and fit for purpose. I purchased a SSB Powersport Lithium Ultralite, LiFePO4, LFP14H-BS, 150mm X 87mm x 93mm. The battery came complete with screw on plastic spacers to raise the battery height to suit the motorcycle battery compartment.
The bike now enthusiastically starts first time every time, under all conditions and as it should have done when I purchased it in the first place. I finally have the bike that I thought I purchased four years ago. Ignition has improved and all lights and displays have improved. If this problem went away at some production point then what was changed during production and why don’t all users know about it? Prior to starting the bike the ‘My Vehicle’ screen on the TFT display always shows a battery voltage approaching, or at, 13 volts
I have an Ozcharge OC-PRO80L 12 volt 480ma LiFePO4 battery charger which I have not used again since I charged the battery when it was new straight out of the box. As soon as the charger tells you that the battery is fully charged then disconnect the charger. I have a charging pigtail lead fitted to the bike and I check the battery voltage with a meter via this lead before using the bike. The battery voltage is now always between 13.27 volts and 13.30 volts. The most the voltage ever drops in a week or more is 0.01 volts (1/100th of a volt) which is probably due to the bike internal clock and maybe a standby function of the keyless start module. The bike charging system is capable of keeping the battery charged and I will only use the battery charger/maintainer if the battery voltage ever drops below 13 volts which it hasn’t done and so far doesn’t look like it will. You do NOT, and SHOULD NOT, keep the appropriate battery charger/maintainer connected to your bike when the bike is not in use. Do I leave the GOOLOO GP2000 at home? No I don’t as I may meet a fellow R1250 GSA rider one day who is stuck at the side of the road/trail or next to a fuel pump in a service station because his bike will not start.
Thank you for writing down your experience, I'm sure it is useful for many.
@@bkriss Hello, thanks for your reply, I couldn't not pass it on after having spent so much time trying to solve this problem.
Hi again. I have a question for you if you don't mind. Since doing the Cam Alignment adjustment and Valve Clearance (in that order!) and for good measure, new sparks and Oil change AND fitting a MotoBatt AGB/Li Hybrid Battery I have not been having any more starting issues. I also checked the Auto Decompressors (OK) on both sides and set the Inlet valve clearances to 0.34-0.35mm. This new battery has a huge CCA (350). I guess I should of put the original battery in after I had done the work (I guess I was pretty fed up at the time and just wanted to finish it). Anyway, the engines spins into life very healthy and I monitored the cranking voltage and it drops to around 9.5V to 10V. I understand the Li battery (mine is a hybrid) the voltge drops approx 1v more than a AGM Battery during cranking. Okay, my question. Although no more starting issues, these '3 Dashes' on the Dash, the ones you show here do appear for a split second ( ~ 250ms I guess).
I have not idea what these dash signify. Just wondered, if you knew? Thanks
First of all, on behalf of the others, thank you for your efforts and for writing down your experiences... Unfortunately, I can't try anymore because I sold the bike earlier. In answer to your question, unfortunately I don't know what the dashes on the flashing display mean, but I don't think they have any significance that would lead us to conclude anything.
Thank you. Of course, I understand. I thank you for all your hard work too in helping the many others. As I think I said. The bike is starting very well now (maybe its because I have the high power battery! :) The auto depressor is the only plausible thing I can think of. But comparing a new auto decompressor with mine i realised mine is okay. Anyway, I have an appointment with my dealer (first!) to just tell me if the sw version I have is OK and also I will ask the question about the 3 dashes as I am curious. I will put my findings in the comments on my youtube video. Okay, Happy Riding @@bkriss
What an adventure ,Honda crosstourer or yamma tenere If you wanna be sure to get there 👌
So I've had this same problem and I think it is a software issue. If you turn the ignition on, the bike will not activate some features which drain a lot of current, like for instance heated grips, front/fog lights and such. As soon as you start the bike, these features become available.
But when you turn off the ignition (at least on a keyless bike), it doesn't really turn off. It stays 'standby' for a limited time (10-15 minutes or so?). You will find that the 12V Mini-DIN power plug next to the HUD will stay powered on for some period of time. I also believe that AFTER this time, the ECU will be really shut down, in stead of the 'standby' mode. It is only then that all parameters are reset, including those for the high-current-drain features, which could (!) affect starting.
Since I'm not able to reproduce the issue by triggering it somehow, it's really hard to test, but what I would like to ask: if someone does have this issue, turn it off, let the bike sit for half an hour without fiddling with it, and then try again starting it. It would be even better if you could recognize the on/off state by using a Mini-DIN accessory with a LED light or something, so you could check the ECU-state.
2 minutes
Just happened to me for the first time. Exactly the same story after 20 min or so ride, I went to fill up the tank after that couldn’t start! Took off battery terminals, retighten them, waited 20 min, bike started as nothing happened! Went to my workshop, cleaned the terminals added some contact lube on terminals to prevent oxidation, just in case I added thread lock, measured the voltage, bike does charge the battery, checked battery status it almost full! Strange! Either there is some glitch with the bike which resets it self in while or indeed battery terminals where to loose, but it didn’t fill like! Don’t like situations like this, especially on GS which is meant to go to remote locations! Maybe 20 minutes rule is the key to fix the problem/glitch in short term!
I have the same issue. It only happens when you turn on the ignition and do not start the the bike. If you start the bike within say 30 seconds of turning on the ignition it will start. I replicated this at the dealer and they kept the bike for 2 weeks. They told me that the factory knows this is a condition with some bikes and they did not have a fix yet. I have since moved to another state and the nearest BMW dealer is 2 hours away. Supposedly, the factory is working on a fix and BMW told me it would be covered under warranty.
I had the same problem, took it bmw and they replaced the battery with a more powerful one as part of a PUMA notice from BMW, basically a known fault by the factory. Shame you have to breakdown and get recovered before it gets fixed! Shame on you BMW.
I have EXACTLY the same issue! Every time these ‘hard starts’ more or less same frequency as you described. 2 days ago it suddenly made a very strange sound I actually never heard before and did not want to start at all anymore. BMW services picked up the bike and brought it to my BMW dealer. Hope they find a structural solution! R1250 GSA - The Netherlands
PS: thanks a lot for sharing this video, really good initiative man! Let’s also see how many experience the same
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
I was told that the batteries of the first 1250 models are too weak. They replaced it. 7000km+ later never had this issue anymore
How about now ? It's solved ?
@@fatchurrochman3710 yes. After BMW replaced the battery (warranty) I never faced any issue anymore
@@fatchurrochman3710 yes. After BMW replaced the battery (warranty) I never faced any issue anymore
I had exactly the same problem same faults due to battery load, also I had drop sensor faulty and limited traction control faults!! New battery and also software update seemed to solve it but I lost faith and sold the bike .. it rode worse than me 2014 wc and was so unreliable .. I have s1000 xr now , let me k le if you get to the bottom of it , good luck that’s for sharing this !
How long after u did the fix did you own the bike? Did the fix last in other words ?
The exact same thing has just happened to me, lucky I was very close to home and managed to push it back, when I did get home it started, it wasn’t till I watched this clip that I realised my bike seems to find it hard to start all the time, never having owned one before I just thought this was normal. Typically this kind of thing always happens when everywhere is closed, so will have to wait till they open in new year to get this investigated more
I have gone through the same issue two days ago and now I ‘ve changed the battery that was only 15 months old.
The CCA of the battery wasn’t enough to crank the engine. The new battery is working fine and I will monitor the bike closely from now on.
I live in Australia, and own a 2019 R1250GSA - I have had same problem 2 times in 2 years! Dealer knew nothing. Interesting to read the comments as it seems a "common" issue. Glad to see your video as it is exactly same as my issue. Interesting BKRISS the dealer changed battery to 12ah...doesnt make sense. I recently had 40,000klm service - battery was checked as perfect ( original battery! ) Valve clearances as per BMW spec - Have you had any more issues since 04/2021?
Hi David! I think the dealer change the battery due to the possibility of a defective battery product series.. I haven't got any more issues since they set my valve clearances.. It's interesting, that you have this issue two times during 40k Kms.. for it is more characteristic that the error occurs almost continuously
Quite a common problem with the 1250 , hope you get it sorted 😮
Ive had this exact thing happen twice now, both times had to call BMW assist, the first time seemed to be a loose battery connector, but i went out today and same thing occured, exactly as described, short ride, stopped for a short time and wont start. seemed very much like a battery issue. Today, by the time the BMW assist came, the bike started fine. Weird. Im onto the BMW garage tomorrow to see what they say. it seems an identical issue to the video and other comments. ill update when ive been in to see them. As it stands the bike is not usable if you pull in for gas and no able to proceed. What if you simply stall it somewhere, maybe at a junction? could be dangerous really.
Wow!! Good luck with that.. I couldn't get BMW to turn my ASC on my (13)R1200 good luck with that issue.
i have exacte same problem, run for ex: an hour stop for filling gas and it does't want to start again like yours. R1250GS 2019 3600KM. Send it to the dealer but I have to wait 1 week before they start looking at it!! will see. I'm from Quebec Canada
Hi Robert! Did they fix your problem? What was the solution?
@@bkriss No, last April, I sold my R1250 because of this problem. I will probably buy a new one next year. Maybe the Super Tenere for the shaft drive or triumph 900 or a basic vstom 650XA
I live in Hermanus South Africa. The same happened to me,replaced the battery 6 days ago, happened twice since,will discuss with Motorad next week
I live in Durban same issue .
Fixed?
Hi, yes sounds the same as mine. BMW did as you know do various checks and changed the battery & starter. Today after 5 months idle, the bike started first time. So , new starter, battery , software down load and valve adjustment. No more problems. Ps when I checked the fault codes before sending it to BMW it was a crazy amount showing up. Also the voltage drop with the old battery was very high and the battery could not revive enough to start a second Time. Wish I could tell you more , but not all battery problem I believe, starter / software ??? Mystery.
Thank you for your information!
The problem is that the positive and negative wiring are not tight enough, so the batteri doesn’t deliver sufficiently power to start normally the bike. Try to tight harder the possitive and negative cable. The problem should solve
I dont think it is as easy as that - surely
That was done on my first visit to the dealer, september 2021, these days my bike is again in service, 3rd time for the same problema....
Szia! R1250R 2019-es motorommal idén kezdődtek ugyan ezek a problémák. 15000 km van benne. 3 nyarat vígan motoroztam, míg idén egy rémálom. 3-szor vitte haza tréler a motort. Most is a nyíregyházi MAG3 szervizben van. Szerintük az indítómotor tekercszárlatos, de még ez nem biztos. Még vizsgálgatják... Meg tudnád adni az elérhetőségedet esetleg, hogy bővebben beszéljünk az esetleges megoldásról? Előre is köszi.
Nekem ue. (már bikakábellel mászkálok). -2021 R1250GS - Teljesen random, hogy beindul-e. Amíg azt hittem, hogy az aksi, addig nyugodt voltam. Neked lett valami megoldás? Nekem kb. 25000 km.-nél kezdte, 2023 novemberben.
I had the same with my GS adventure, from September 2021 37.700km about a year and half old.
I wanted start it in the morning, bike sleeps outside -10°C, and it wouldn’t start, i tried 6times. I put the rain cover on and a hot air blower underneath for 15min; after the onboard computer showed +4°C i could start the engine on the first try. Mid December 2022.
End of January 2023 same problem , this time I started the bike at +2°C and rode for some 5-7km, parked for 10min and couldn’t make it start again no matter what. Got it on a trailer and brought it to the dealership/mechanic (official BMW motorrad Berlin) they checked the battery, changed it (for free) and handed me back the motorcycle the next day. Now it starts without problems (only tried at -1°C) and I’m curious how long it will last, because i red on forums this is a quite common problem for the BMW 1250 engine.
Hello. I have the same problems with my GS, how did you fix it? Greetings mate.
Same issue here like everyone else… bike will be going into the shop this week hopefully. I will address everything mentioned above.
My 2021 R1250 GSA has failed to start on a few occasions and it only has 300 miles on it as it is 2 weeks old. I carry a portable jumper just in case but if it happens anymore I will seek my dealers help in finding the issue. One thought was I left the ignition on to long trying to learn the TFT without it running but then I charged it over night and it did it again just like in the video, BMW has to make this right for all of us.
G'day, I have the exact issue. Dealer replaced the battery and updated software. Other issue I have is any gear, between 2500-3000 rpm my bike surge as you can actually see it's revv wave in the screen. Revving goes up and down constantly at constant speed in any gear between 2500 and 3000. You actually feel the surge on the bike.
After SW update haven't been able to test yet.
2019 GSA in UK and same random issue. Have written to BMW. I think it is related to valve clearances but do not want the cost of checking if not required.
So I have a 2019 RT with the same exact sounding issue. After 15 minute start to yesterdays ride, bike would not start. What was resolution? I’m scheduled to take the bike in for PM service in a few weeks snd would like to suggest they learn from your resolution. Thanks in advance.
Hi bkriss,
Can I ask what the current status is now? (Assuming you still have the bike)
I have a R1250GS (2019) with only around 5k on the clock. This is been happening recently, exactly what you explained and filmed (Thank you)
Initially I was so confused with all these random error notices - so now, this makes sense due to the really depressed voltage on starting. Sometimes it happens regardless of engine temperature and sometimes its normal. I changed the battery for a 240 CCA (standard is 200CCA) hoping that would solve the problem. NO! (Terminals wire brushed and cleaned/tightened)
So now, looking at something you (or one of your readers) mentioned; Decompression. As I understand there is an automated mechanism that partially lifts the exhaust valve on each cylinder to aid cranking. If the Exhaust valve clearance is too large, the valve is not opening sufficiently. So, I checked the service manual and this appears to be: 0.34mm to 0.41mm.
Therefore, my next job is to start digging into 'Knowhow' and measure and set my clearances to 0.34/0.35 (Cold Engine of course)
Gosh I hope this fixes this!! Thanks again to you and all the people who provides their inputs. Wish me luck, will be needing it!
Thanks for your story.. I think you are on the right track to solving the problem. I sold my bike last year because I didn't trust it, although it was symptom-free after valve clearance adjustments. Battery replacement and valve clearance adjustment combined pretty much solved my problem. BUT I emphasize that this is my case!
There are simply so many such error phenomena that it is difficult to say the reasons. In my case, I was bothered by the fear that I have to ALWAYS keep the value of the valve clearance to a minimum, in order for it to start for sure. Good luck for you!
@bkriss Good morning. Thank you so much for replying so quickly. Your words have provided me with reassurance. I've now got the information on how to check the valve clearances and change out the shims. I just need to buy a few specialist tools as I will be needing them for every service! Will upload a guide afterwards on my little channel for others. Apart from this issue, I really love the bike. Let's see how it goes. Good luck with your new bike and once again, thanks for your video which really put me on the right track as you said. Bye.
@@CLLUK Good luck! Please report on the result and if you make a video about it, link it here so that I can share it in this video description.
@@bkriss Hi again. Okay GOOD NEWS I think... I have just completed the Valve Clearance checks. Prior to commencing, I attempted 10 starts. 4 were without problem and the other 6 were failures. (Didn't start or stuttered and started). The Valve Clearances are: INLET 0.10mm to 0.17mm respectively. EXHAUST 0.34mm to 0.41mm. (There are 2 inlets and 2 exhaust valves on each cylinder of course) On the LHS Cylinder the Exhaust clearances were 0.40mm and 0.41mm!!! On the RHS Cylinder the clearances were 0.35mm and 0.36mm. So, I adjusted the LHS Cylinder to 0.35mm and 0.36mm by replacing these shims with larger shims (thickness). Whilst I had everything out, I checked and adjusted the INLETS as well. On completion of reassembly and checks (couple of hours ago) I crossed my fingers and did the first start! Fired up immediately and was definitely quicker and healthier. I then let her warm up (as it is still sub zero temps here in the UK) and restarted many times ( ~ 8 ) and all perfect. I will be doing starts in the garage for the next few days as further checks. So, I think the problem was the excessive exhaust valve clearances in the LHS cylinder which I think wasn't allowing the cylinder to be decompressed adequately to allow the starter to cleanly start the engine. Anyway, I am hoping this is a fix! Fingers crossed. I didn't make a video but I did take photos which I will hopefully produce a montage with 'knowhow' information on how I did the valve clearances and pop it up into my little channel, Of course, there are a few people out there who have already done this. A big thanks to you and indeed all the others who suggested this exhaust valve clearance issue. Anyway, I will get back in a few days with an update and also a ref for the valve clearance procedure incase anybody wants it.
@@CLLUK Hi! Thank you for reporting on the repair progress! And I am very happy that the work invested seems to be successful. I hope for further successful tests as well!
The photo repair report will surely be useful to many people.
Have the same bike and exactly the same issue since new. After numerous visits to BMW it seems they resolved it by changing the battery and re-setting valve clearance.
I had the same problem on my 2017 s1000rr. Battery tested perfect and always on Optimate but was getting random dash errors. I fitted an aftermarket battery and been fine since.
Hi. This issue arose for me this morning on my 2019 1250. I stopped for a fill up after about 20 mins riding. Bike wouldn't start. I assumed it was the battery as it was a very cold night. I managed to get the bike started and back to dealer. They checked out the battery. This was fine. The mechanic told me it was more than likely an issue with valve compression so I have my bike booked in to sort this out. If it does happen to others I was advised to leave the bike sit for 15-20 mins when it should start ok. Don't keep trying to restart. Regards, KC
I have the identical situation. Bought a new battery and I still get the problem. I now have to go everywhere with a jump-start power pack. Great on an £18K motorcycle!
An hour ago I had the same problem with my 1250 GSA from 2019. The motorcycle is actually permanently connected to the BMW battery charger, so I actually expect the battery's performance to be sufficient to start the engine at all times. However, that definitely wasn't enough today and the engine only started with the help of a booster. But then immediately and completely problem-free. The 40,000 service is due in 2 weeks. I'm curious what the workshop says...

Same thing happened today on my 2019 model. At a junction. Tried starting multiple times and after maybe 10th try it just started when I was committed to push it back home.
Did you find out what it was?
In my case the solution was a new battery. After 4 years the OEM battery was dead. After changing the battery everything works fine so far.
It does not take much at all for the battery terminals to be loose enough to cause erratic behaviors of the electronic warning system. When it happens to me, I tighten the terminal and all returns to normal. BMW replaced my battery already once due to this issue arcing the ground terminal. As I posted earlier, the solution is Loctite and a lock washer.
The problem i found on my 2019 R1250GS was my left cylinder decompression mechanism has a very week spring. The spring is supposed to pull in the weighted mechanism that would keep the forward exhaust cam (bottom of the cam “pin” turned to the round side that would assist in opening up the front exhaust valve when it would normally be fully closed. This allows the engine to spin freely during initial cranking. Once the engine spins fast enough the centrifical weights or mechanism overcomes the spring (thats supposed to hold it in) and as they splay outward they turn the pin thats located on the opposite side or 180 degrees from the high point of the exhaust cam to the flat retracted part. Why the starting issue only happens when it is warm when i stop for gas is a mystery. When it happens and not every time, i pull out my booster pack and it starts right up with the added juice. Think if it happens again i will put my bike in 6th gear and roll the wheel thru a full turn to reposition the cam and see if that helps ? I stumbled onto this and have video when i was checking my valve adjustments. Right cylinder had plenty of spring force to keep that side pulled in. My left side cylinder was just flopping around and if it happened to be facing down it would turn to the flat side of the pin and not dump the compression out exhaust.. i took video.
I checked my decompressors both sides. Okay (put a video on my channel). Set my exhaust clearances to min (~ 0.34/0.35mm). I actually also put a AGM/lithium hybrid battery in (360CCA). It turns over okay now. Early days. I notice when it starts i seee momentarily 3 or 4 dashs appear/disappear. Don't know if this is normally. I have a battery guard monitor module fitted and it records the voltage at cranking. (not sure how accurate this is) and shows 9V-10V. I guess this is normally. When it struggled way back in time, it drops to around 6V-7V.
Thank you for your valuable experience. The spring as a source of failure has not come up so far, but it could be very important!
I am experiencing the exact same problem with my 2019 GSA1250. After a short ride (about 20 min) and a brief stop (e.g. gas station) it occasionally fails to start. Exact same sound as in the video.
It seems to happen in fairly cold conditions (around 0C). My first time was in January 2020. It worked again the next day and I forgot all about it. Until earlier this month, it happend on two consecutive nights (with a dealer battery replacement in between).
The latest diagnose from my dealer is; a problematic batch of batteries. I should now have a proper one.
Unfortunately this does not yet give me the confidence I require from my daily commuter bike. I will now point them to this thread and ask them to check the exhaust valve clearance.
Thanks all for this information! I will post results here.
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
I have the same problem ;I Did you get it fixed?
I've had that problem a couple of times, but it usually started on the next try. I'm guessing it has to do with the decompression devices on the exhaust cams not doing their job.
I'm having the same issue in 23 plat r1250gs with only 1600 miles on the click. Waiting to hear from the garage now.
Starter is dragging because shift cams are not in correct place... this is just a very good guess
I had exactly the same situation 2 days ago. I waited for 20 minutes, then it started normally, the second day also was everything ok
So many different problems with batteries, valve clearance, shafts, …
Trying to get a new *and* fault free US$ >20.000 1250GS looks very much like inverted Russian Roulette to me.
I was thinking of getting such a bike, but I guess I’ll keep my Honda Crossrunner that has less gizmos but isn’t much worse comfort and performance wise, and in which I can trust during the next long trip.
Ok all I can say my 1250 2020 had the same issue I can report back that BMW changed my aftermarket Toplite YTX14-BS to the original BMW Battery as attached and problem solved. I am very happy now...
Interesting. I've read quite a few people saying that changing to a OEM battery (in many cases people changing out their after market 240CCA or a lot higher) for the standard 200CCA. Don't understand, maybe turning the engine over a fraction slower somehow doesn't throw out the decompressors...
I had the same problem. The new battery broke on the side. I bought a new battery and solved the problem 👍
I just ordred a Bosch MC-batteri Lithium LTX20CH-BS for mine. Had this problem since I bought mine in 2019. But I had 40.000 km anyway over 3 seson. So looking forward to get the new battery and have it fired up.
@@dannysvendsen2438 Did the lithium battery solve the problem?
Hello, Having a similar issue on mine beside the noise on the left cylinder head... Did you have yours resolved?
Hello I’m having the same problems bike going back to dealership next week for second time I carry my battery booster just in case thankyou
My R1250GS Adventure 2019 has this same issue. The bike starts ok, I go for a quick ride (10 mins) stop for fuel and then it won't start (exactly the same as your video). First time it happened BMW fitted a new battery. Now it's happened again (2 weeks later). I will be sending the bike back to BMW as it doesn't seem to be a battery issue.
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
Exactly the same problem here with my 2019 GSA1250, down even to the same error messages. BMW here in Rome can't find an error log nor replicate it. Have changed the battery once, trickle charge it once a week, 2 software updates, but still get the same hot start problem and have to always travel with a booster. It works but is a pain in the neck and should not be necessary on a 20k$ bike. My last attempt will be to install an Antigravity bluetooth battery tracker to try and figure if it is in fact a battery issue or something else (shiftcam related?)
Hi BMW r 1250 gs, driven about 2000 thousand kilometers and today I had the same problem. I will contact BMW Service tomorrow. Czech Republic
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
Same issue with my 2019 1250gs. Starts after 30-40 minutes (I guess after something cools down). I have noticed this happens when I don’t use the trickle charger overnight.
Same problem for me. GSA 1250 hp 2021. A lot of hard starts with very often a message on traction control out of order « drive safely » and today after a 30mn ride I stop 5 mn and then impossible to restart. I pushed the bike for 300m, just gave it a 10th chance to start and engine started as if nothing happened before …. Not reliable ….
Unsurprisingly I’m another unfortunate 1250 GSA owner who has just experienced the same fault. Had trouble getting started the last few times I’ve ridden the bike but I always got it going. Yesterday I stopped for a coffee and it wouldn’t restart. Drop sensor and traction control error messages! Called BMW assist to recover the bike but tried again after about half an hour waiting and it started fine! 2019 model 10500 miles. Will be calling dealer tomorrow to see what they say. It’s clearly a known fault so let’s see if they’ll admit that??! Battery terminals all ok nothing looks amiss.
Hi Charles! I'm sad to hear about your issue.. please let us know what the dealer say to you and any solution.. Yes it's a known fault, but BMW didn't inform the owners community about this.
@@bkriss well I dropped my bike into the BMW garage today and they’ve called me back to say that there’s a problem with the alternator and the battery. Both will be changed under the warranty but it could be some time as they have to get approval first from Germany, then order the parts and then get a workshop slot! I think it’s going to be a while. At least it’s being sorted and I’m not so bothered at this time of year not having my bike! -3 this morning 🥶!
@@charlesforrester6287 Alternator?? Hmm. interesting.. Thanks for sharing!
I had 2 GSA for a period of 10 years, never had a single problem (2004 model and 2008 model ) perhaps the electronic was made in Germany on the time !!! Where it is made today??? For over $25000 ( oooops … painful )
Hi , looks like you have a faulty battery, you need a 200cca battery on that bike I recommend Deka they are not cheap but they are good .
On BMW s you need at least 170cca , also the corrent draw should go away after a few minutes when the can/Lin bus shuts down try to disconnect your sat nav and see if is due any update the problem could be your sat nav not letting the can/Lin bus shut down and make sure you don’t have anything else connected to the battery and also check the battery terminals They need to be clean and tight.👍
I had the same problem, difficult start once after a 20 min stop, then no start at all after a gas station stop, with 3 error messages: drop sensor/switch error (this one appeared just once, at the first unsuccessful start, I did not manage to take a photo), followed by "Fault in the engine control" and "Traction control limited". This happened at about 2.400 Km, 3 months old 1250 GS. Went to the dealer and the causes were: 1. loose battery screws, actually one of the screws were (from minus/ground) was damaged due to the imperfect contact and 2. Exhaust valve adjust, which was out of the operation limits. So now at each start I fill it ios better, as the engine does not "hesitate" to start for half a second or so. All of you, make sure the battery screws are tight, as an easy fix!
My 2020 1250GSA is having exactly the same problem,. It first happened a year ago, it was checked by the dealer then and they couldn’t find anything. It has been fine for almost year and now it has failed to start a few more times always after a short ride. Have you found a cause? My battery benched tested perfectly as well.
Hi Greg! Please check my pinned comment in this section. (The solution may be the valve clearance adjustment and the battery..)
@@bkriss I saw that that after I sent the message. I’ll try that , still it’s going to be difficult to trust the bike after this. Thanks
Waiting for a new battery and once that happens they will treat the bike to see if this was the issue.
Hello!
Is there a solution for this?
This is what is happening to me now.
same problem on my r1250gs my 2019, first time the dealer told me that the issue was on negative cable, it wasn't tight enough. After they said to fix i had other several time this problem at starting time, is random, it happens when the motorcycle is hot but also when is cold (at first start). I use a portable booster, and every time i have this issue i solve it using my little booster. Last week i changed my battery with a lithium one (Skyrich HJTX14H-FP 12V 48Wh 240Ah), the result is that i still have this problem, the difference is that after the first time i fail to start the motorcycle, the second time is ok maybe because the lithium battery warm up! I have no confidence in BMW dealer, easy to identify the cause in one our...there are months i'm fighting against this bug...hope someone will find the SOLUTION...i'm looking forward to her good news
Spoke to the Stealership today, Basically they cannot find a fault or a log of the fault, not can they re create the problem so they are replacing the battery and placed an order for one, I told him about a few other vids on here of their bikes doing the same as mine and they will look into it more, Hope the Battery fix works tho
Barry Porter check out my vid. Battery and update. Still same crap.
th-cam.com/video/NXWVPnWxpfg/w-d-xo.html
Hi the jobello. Thats basically what mine was doing apart from the sat nav. . My dealer is not admitting to knowing about this issue. And kept talking about the battery. U cant hear it too well on the vid clips but im swaying towards a starter motor solenoid sticking and the electonics of the bike are shutting down to preserve itself. Im hoping the replacement battery will work but i couldnt find anything wrong with the origional 😖
Barry Porter hey. The battery is not the issue. A few people have swapped batteries but still have problem. I’ll keep my vids posting with updates
Thanks for sharing information! Keep it up.
I have just bought a 2020 1250GS HP exactly the same issue it's been to BMW dealership 3 times now in fact at this moment and they are also trying the valve clearances recommendation now. Two new batteries tried and tested so far. It's frustrating.
Exactly the same problem on my 2020HP. They have no answer...
Hi, can you tell us the update please?
Same problem. Error code also appearing. I will take to service. This week. Did you solve your problem?
Hi Jose! Did the dealer solve your problem somehow? What was the solution? Mine seems ok, but I'm not sure, need to test more...
Same issue. My brand new bike. Second day. And the dealer replaced the battery. Did not fix the problem. Sending it back next week for further diagnosis. Interested on what was the common problem.
Tell them to check the compression in each cylinder. It may has the same valve clearance issue, like mine had.
@@bkriss thanks heaps bud for sharing the info. I have passed the info to the dealer and hopefully they will sort it out next week. Shame that this happens on my second day of getting a brand new bike. I would have thought bmw has some kind of knowledge management system where they know and able eliminate this issue faster rather than guessing. Furthermore, this issue seems to be common according to all the people here whom experiences the exact issue.
Hello. Did you fix the motorcycle starting problem? I have the same problem and I don't know where to seek help anymore.
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
Here is what I think the problem is as I have had this happen to me many times with 2019 GSA. The ground terminal on the battery seems to vibrate loose enough to cause this starting issue. I just had the issue today as a matter of fact. The issue can be serious enough to short the battery terminal and basically melt it down from arcing. When you tighten the negative terminal on the battery, the bike will start right away. I am going to remedy mine with loctite and a lock washer.
I'm having the starting issue. Cleaned and tightened battery terminals and it didn't fix it.
great bike, yes
I have the same problem on a 2019 and it's the exact problem as you
2020 GS same issue. Firmware has been updated but same thing has happened twice since. TFT says brake light fault, light working front and back no problem. Leave bike for an hour starts no problem.
Hi Philip! Exactly what I experienced. please let us know what has been fixed on your bike. Thanks!
Exactly the same just happened today, 01/30/22 on my 2020 R1250 GSA w/3,000 miles. This is the 2nd time. First time BMW said loose connection, firmware update. Need to source a jump kit to keep handy. I thought I purchased a BMW, but it is acting like a Harley leaving me stranded.
I have taken main fuse out /50 amp/ cleaned contacts with steel wool and put stainless washers underneath the cheese head screws. Up to now no further trouble. Here’s hoping.
@@philipchesters2824 Hi! I'm afraid that's not the source of the problem.. Did the dealer do something with your bike?
My Brand New 2023 is doing this with less than 100 miles in the bike. I replaced the battery and it started fine several times. I let it sit over night and now it will not start. It tries to start and fires for a split second and then dies. Its going to the dealer tomorrow. Makes me think I should have went with the Moto Guzzi or Pan American.
Did they fix it? If so, what did they do? Thks
Seen where battery connections are not tight enough causing voltage drop
I have a new 1250 hp ralley with 273miles on it and the same start problem, thought it was just a under charged battery but no. It will need looking at on the first service.
Currenty bike is the same your problem, I try charging again battery, maybe unstable, because I press starter button more time it so too
Hi
Having the same exact problem has an explanation for the starting problem been found?
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
Does anyone has a solution we could apply? It looks like OEM services are completely useless and every single one say something else. So if not solved, how did you go on? with jump starts? as I am in the same situation and planning my trips in the way that I only stop at the petrol station, its becoming so stressful, that I am planning to sell it. Especially having huge problem with ESA which again, BMW did not solved and only wished me the best. Sad situation indeed.
Seems like too much resistance in the battery. Happens especially with (also strong) Li-Ion batteries at temperatures under 10 degrees C. The engine needs so much current when it starts at cold (no decompression mechanism) that the batterie voltage drops under 8 volt. If this takes too long (2 compressions), the starter circuit is cut for 30 seconds. During cold time, use lead batteries. In need, leave all the lights on to warm up the batterie a bit. Dangerous situation when you stall on a cross-road. No space for larger batteries (also placed by far too high). To my modest opinion, bad engineering on this topic. Good luck, ride safe.
Same issue on my 2020GS HP. 2 new batteries, valves adjusted, all ignition components checked and tested by 2 different BMW dealerships and the problem continues no one seems to have an answer.
That's so frustrating! The factory engineering should answer this and they don't.. this is scandalous.😡 I sold my GS last year.
@@bkriss Absolutely scandalous for sure. It really spoils my life long passion for motorcycles.
Can I ask what your sw version number is? Thanks
I have 2023 bmw gs adv trophy and l had the same problem. I had to use a jump starter. I took the bike to the service. They said there were some issues in the brain and they have cleared them all. I had let the bike to lie down 4 times. It kept the logs so it caused the not starting problem they said.
Well the answer from the dealer service was not satisfying but for the time being the trophy runs smoothly
What year was the motorcycle?
2019.
I have exactly the same problem, my GSA is MY2020. Going to dealer next week😢
what did they do?
It is the battery it was a bad run, I work at Williams Manchester motorad, we found the problem. Almost 15 months ago then BMW rolled the fix when they questioned us why we changed do many new batterys.
Not sure its a bad battery. I had the exact same issue and upgraded the battery at my own expense. Thought i fixed it but had the issue again a few days ago.
@@chiselcheswick5673 needs further investigation, may require a firmware update or possible a charging system, get this checked asap as the last thing you want is pay for the engine to be removed and stripped down as the charging system is under the gearbox. :)
No, that is not tje issue. I have the same problema and nu GS îs June 2021. So it was not solved 18 months ago.....
I have exactly the same problem !
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
Any update? i have the 2020 1250 gsa hp and the battery didn’t have enough power to crank it, it seems like the issue might the the lithium battery, they dont work well on cold
Renato Shehu ... from what I hear. LiPo has to be woken up. Or warmed up a little before it has full working capacity. Look it up
I found a few forums on this
Hi Renato! There is some discussion about this on Advrider: advrider.com/f/threads/r1250gs-starting-problem.1418465/page-2#post-39008344
My problem is different and still dont have any solution...
I have the same problem on my 1250 GS HP 2019.
The battery does not seem to be the problem, we have tried with three different batteries.
I don't have the LiPo on my bike since it was introduced 2020.
You can read my info here:
th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html
Ok do its happened to me a few more times. Booked it in again later today. Im now starting to think its the starter or the solonoid as every time i check the battery it reads fine tho its proper crap when cold😖
Thanks@@barryporter4593 Let me know if they find something.
Hi ,this is just happened to my 1250gsa yesterday exactly the same.
Sadly - my 2019 BMW 1250 GSA does the exact same thing. :(
Just got my new 21 plate and it does the same thing.
They had battery and starter problems on 19 plates so traded it in.
Dealer has had new bike three times and cannot fault the problem.
Still with them☹️
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
@@bkriss dealer rang me today.
Re set the valve clearance and this morning the starting failed again.
Now the battery upgraded and for me to try.
Will keep you posted.
@@simonbattram626 Hi! Did the new battery solve the problem or needed something more to do?
@@bkriss the battery solved the issue 👍
Exactly the same issue went to the dealer for the first visit 1000km, check everything nobody find the reason. did someone get an answer to this, I am very upset just 2000km
Please check my pinned comment (last update). If you have any repair solution for your bike (with this issue), please leave a comment, share it.
New update added 24:th of January
th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html
When I check the different places that I link to I find that we are 25 persons that are experiencing this kind of problem with our bikes.
It would be really nice if you could write a comment here if you experience the same problem.
th-cam.com/video/VyCnVkYhxDI/w-d-xo.html
!!! Write what bike, year and where you live !!!
E.g R1250GS, 2019, Sweden
I want to determine if its based on geography/different batches of the bike.
It seems like i'm the only one in Sweden with this problem.
Have a nice weekend //Patric
Man i see this happening alot with the new 1250s makes me wonder.😵💫
My brother had a very similar starting issue, thought it was a duff battery. Dealer updated software on bike and problem went away. Go figure that! 👀
Thank you Paul! Is that a 1250 too? I'm going to service next week, I will tell them this.
I had a new battery plus software upgrade, it is still doing the exact same thing.
i m having the same issue happened twice while i was getting low fuel message at 30 miles left .both time bike started fine after about 2hrs
Any updates this happenned to me as well with yuasa YTX14H-BS battery
I will be in service tomorrow if there are any updates that could be useful to consider and check please kindly let me know
Writing and answering by myself:) checked the forums and have seen that starter relay is the main concern any opinion or experience on that ?
@@motosurus Any updates from your part? ;)
Was it the starter relay?
@@SageCloud all is fixed after the battery is changed
Same problem on my 2020gs. Happened twice. Once after stopping for gas after riding for 30 minutes, and another after going into a grocery store after a 10 minute ride. Both times I turned bike off and back on and then it started (struggled start). Anyone have a recent update for solution?
HI same thing happened to me bike has broken dowen 5 time BMW not sorting the problem out all will not litening to all of us pay top prices for these thinds and get very bad customor service awating news on my bike cos the BMW Tech cant fing out the problem with it but it will not start come one
Hi, Having the same problem on my r1250 gsa 2020. I've got him now for 1 week and 3 day's, for the moment he has 421 Km. For the moment he is still by the dealer for to look the problem.
Do you have any news? Did they fix the issue?
@@adventuremind5503 I have for the moment no more problem.The dealer said that the battery was low, and that de GPS tracker the one was for this problem, because it was not an BMW accessories. My conclusion is that he also didn't now it.
my motorcycle is 2021 model 1250gsa rallye I have exactly the same problem in Turkey 14.02.2022
Merhaba konuyu çözdünüz mu benim se başıma geldi
@@motosurus evet yetkili servis aküyü garantiden değiştirdi sorun çözüldü.
Facing exact issue today