Hi- New member from San Jose. Have a few questions

[SJMike]

I’m new to the BMW forum & looking for any insight/info from current owners. I’m seriously considering buying a 2016 or newer C650 Sport. I’ve researched online for info about the BMW scooters & found lots of issues with the pre- 2016 models. Got the impression that BMW finally made big improvements starting in 2016.

I’m interested in hearing from owners about dependability of 2016 & newer models.

Has the stalling issue been fixed/resolved in 2016 models?

Are there any other quirks or problems I should aware of?

Does anyone have a C650 with higher mileage – like over 20K? How trouble free was the scooter?

Do all 2016 & newer models have the hydraulic Timing Chain Tensioner? Is this new tensioner more reliable than the old version?

I’m able to do most of the basic work on my Tmax such as: Change tires, change oil /air filter or spark plugs, work on the variator & change the drive belt.
Other than the cost of parts on the BMW, is there any other high priced service items? Checking & adjusting the valves is the only service I might not be able to do. What is typical cost for valve service & when is it due?

I realize that BMW scooters are premium priced, so I’m trying find out how reliable the 2016 model is. Other than routine maintenance will I typically find a lot of “surprise” problems That need to be fixed by the dealer. Items like remapping the DME (Digital Motor Electronics) , etc.

Is the scooter worth the investment if I stay on top of the maintenance, or will it have issues no matter how well I take care of it?

Any help from the members of this forum would greatly appreciated
Thx- SJMike

 

[bicyclenut]

SJMike, Welcome.

I have a 2014 GT, so not exactly what you are looking at but basically same animal base engine, trans, frame, etc with some different bodywork and appearance.

My understanding of the newer models was some improvements of the CVT system for quicker off the line acceleration, altered suspension, new exhaust, new center stand design and some new styling and bodywork. Besides maybe some tuning of the ECM, etc. the basic design remained the same and many parts are interchangeable. Some of these changes could be done by aftermarket upgrades. I am sure BMW made some minor changes based upon issues they had with early models.

I am at 20,500 miles on my 2014 and I have had no real issues besides maintenance. Early on there was a brake line recall that was done and I do have an issue with the outside temperature sensor unable to detect when it drops below 50 degrees but I haven't bothered to pursue that issue. Never has a stalling issue.

I believe a new timing chain tensioner was updated for affected models and as I have read there was a switch to a hydraulic type but I am not sure of details of this.

I have experienced some stuttering and noisy clutch engagement issues very intermittently that can usually be fixed with a brake torque type action or some rapid accelerations. My understanding is this can be fixed by an aftermarket clutch but it hasn't been an issue for me.

Based on posts, if you have the dealer do maintenance, expect the costs to be high, but that seems to be very dependent on the dealer you use. Some of the maintenance intervals can be very conservative based upon what I have seen and other have posted. If you do most of the regular maintenance yourself, the costs don't seem to be much more than similar maxi scooters. Of course when it comes to BMW parts you will pay a premium for many. Some items are available after market. An example, BMW drive belt will cost you about $350, same belt, same part number, Mitsumi or something like that purchased from a source in Italy is about $125 shipped.

In 20,000 mile of use, my maintenance costs have been about $1500, which as included 2 sets of tires, a new battery, new CVT belt, Dr. Pulley Rollers and Sliders, new brakes all around, chain tensioner/oil for swingarm, air filter, about 4 oil changes and a couple headlamps. Done this work myself beside mounting tires on wheels, so saved some money on labor. Removal of plastics is a big time and labor cost. Some of these items I did probably earlier than needed but wanted to avoid issues early.

Probably good to get a GS-911 so you can reset maintenance lights and read computer for any troubleshooting issues.

Just my observations so far. Seems like you hear much more about problems than the riders who just keep riding and putting on the miles. Of course like any high tech machine, failures will occur and there will be the lemons out there.

 

[Skutorr]

If you have a Tmax you know that the rear chain drive in the swing arm is essentially a lifetime unit; just change the oil as required and that's it. The difference with the BMW's is that the single rear chain stretches and wears like mad, so you keep having to take up the slack with thicker guides, then finally replace the chain (and GEAR SET) and start the process all over. As long as you own it. It's a cost-cutting design for manufacturing, and income producing plan for BMW Service & Parts departments. They make money on BOTH ends!!!

 

[orlandopalladino]

where do you get a GS-911?

 

[bicyclenut]

where do you get a GS-911?

http://www.beemershop.com

I think Amazon and Twisted Throttle also sell them.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk