R1250 RS drive shaft replacement under warranty

[runnerhiker]

This topic is not new, but here is an update.

2020 R1250 RS with 18k miles, bought new in late 2020.  At the recent 18K mile service, the dealer tested the drive shaft with a BMW "tool" and the drive shaft failed the test.  BMW will replace the drive shaft under warranty even though the bike is 2 years out of warranty, parts and labor included.

The service writer gave me a non technical explanation of the "tool".  He said they disconnect the rear pinion, attach a BMW design device to the shaft, run the shaft, and the device gives an answer.  Mine was "failed".  BMW had sent me a letter some months ago describing the program.

I am good with this.

[Grumpy Goat]

Good to hear that they will do the repair on your bike, Ron.

[Motorhead1977]

Brought my '20 1250 RS in for a software update about a month ago and since it had over 12,000 miles (about 15,000mi) they informed me that it's BMW policy to perform the drive shaft test on the bike. I told them I had replaced the shaft last fall as I had a new in the box one on the shelf. They tested anyway since the BMW service records didn't show it has having been done yet. I had about 1,200-1,400 miles on the new shaft. Result? Failed! So it was replaced under the new BMW drive shaft test/replace policy. They told me they'll check it again/replace if needed for free at 36,000 miles.

[Duckbubbles]

Had my '23 RS in for its initial check at 11,500 miles. It also failed and had a new driveshaft installed.
I had mentioned before that this bike had a grumbly/rumbly feeling at highway speeds that neither of my previous 1200's had. Nothing too serious, just noticeable. That feeling is gone with the new shaft. Many friends have had driveshafts replaced with results of no difference to miraculous. I was chalking it up to placebo effect but now I'm not so sure.

Frank

[Grumpy Goat]

Brought my '20 1250 RS in for a software update about a month ago and since it had over 12,000 miles (about 15,000mi) they informed me that it's BMW policy to perform the drive shaft test on the bike. I told them I had replaced the shaft last fall as I had a new in the box one on the shelf. They tested anyway since the BMW service records didn't show it has having been done yet. I had about 1,200-1,400 miles on the new shaft. Result? Failed! So it was replaced under the new BMW drive shaft test/replace policy. They told me they'll check it again/replace if needed for free at 36,000 miles.

Do you know if this new one you had in the box (that failed) had the new part number?

I wonder if they test the replacement ones after they install them? Probably not. If they fail too then the machine that they have could be the problem. 

I have not been able to see a proper answer regarding how this test works, and so I remain skeptical on its accuracy. The fact that your new shaft with 1400 miles max on it failed makes me suspect the jig.

[Grumpy Goat]

Many friends have had driveshafts replaced with results of no difference to miraculous.  I was chalking it up to placebo effect but now I'm not so sure. 

I am one of those who saw no significant effect with the new shaft they installed. It has the same part number as the new one I bought myself a couple years (?) ago.

[Motorhead1977]

The new shaft I installed had the new part number. The tech said that they can't (or won't) perform the test unless the shaft has more than 600 miles on it. The original one I replaced had a bit over 12,000 miles on it and the front universal joint was just barely binding when we examined it after removal. Hardly noticeable but binding nonetheless.

[BobAin'tStoppin']

Not really sure why our drive shafts, that used to be good for 70k miles are now only good for 12k. But it does make me a bit nervous. My 2017 red frame now is at 47,400 miles. Just did a road trip to Jackman Maine and now need to start thinking about Trempealeau. So today I pulled the shaft and changed the rear drive oil. Shaft looks and feels like new, so I lubed the splines with moly and put it back together. Pretty sure the red frame is providing protection to the whole final drive system.

[Grumpy Goat]

That red frame is sure special.

I had mine changed under the program and my shaft was just fine last time I looked at it. Still have the new one I bought. Should think about selling it as it is not doing me any good sitting on the shelf. Could put the money towards a new lens or something ...

[Mark]

Not really sure why our drive shafts, that used to be good for 70k miles are now only good for 12k.  But it does make me a bit nervous.  My 2017 red frame now is at 47,400 miles.  Just did a road trip to Jackman Maine and now need to start thinking about Trempealeau.  So today I pulled the shaft and changed the rear drive oil.  Shaft looks and feels like new, so I lubed the splines with moly and put it back together.  Pretty sure the red frame is providing protection to the whole final drive system.

Greetings Bob, 
I think the drive shaft is inspected/tested every 12,000mi and replaced at 36,000mi. The U-joints are
the weak link in the system

[Mark]

That red frame is sure special.

I had mine changed under the program and my shaft was just fine last time I looked at it. Still have the new one I bought. Should think about selling it as it is not doing me any good sitting on the shelf. Could put the money towards a new lens or something ...

Greetings GG, 

My dealership bought my extra drive shaft back from me. You may want to check with your dealer.

[Grumpy Goat]

Greetings GG, 

My dealership bought my extra drive shaft back from me. You may want to check with your dealer.

While that is a good idea I bought it online from ASCycles in CA so I doubt they would buy it back ... one of the downsides of buying online vs bricks and mortar where you have a good relationship.