Looking at an '05 LT, what to watch out for?

[beeper]

I will be test riding an '05 LT this weekend with @32,000 miles on it. I have been mostly looking into the 99-02 models for the smaller price but this one is fairly nearby and the price is pretty decent. I realize some changes were made in '05 and was wondering if there are any new issues that arise with the upgraded model as opposed to the older units.
Also what exactly are all the changes made in '05?

Thanks. :)

[jzeiler]

Different head rake angle to improve low speed handling. RS pistons and larger throttle bodies to increase HP to 116. Hydrualic center stand. Different dash and a few lighting changes, separate head lights for low/high beams, running lights. Narrower seat and better rear shock (mostly shot after 25K). If she has that many miles then all of the known, common issues that have bothered the 05 issue have already surfaced and she should be good to go. I have 44K on mine and she just feels like there is no stopping her. Just got back from a 6,200 mile trip with absolutly no issues.

[104strad]

I have a 05 that I bought this spring with 9700 mi. on it, and now has a little over 12k ( not a good year to ride in northern Mn. ). I love this bike except for the seat, and stock foot peg location! The problem I am having now is a strange noise coming from the transmission, I assume bearing on the input shaft. I think they changed the transmission in 05! I can't wait to tear into it this winter to see what's going on. I don't think this a common problem with the LT.

[beartooth]

Love my '05 also. Only change needed was the Rick Mayer seat which enabled me to ride tank to tank without a get off. Go for it, you won't look back.

Bruce :) :)

[bthomp897]

:bmw: :bmw: :bmw: I got a 05 new from local dealer. I had many problems with it during the first year or so.
1 oil leak around head cover at 5000 miles
2 fluid leak onto clutch plates requiring clutch replacement and new seal at
11000 miles
3 gas leak onto right foot caused by cheap plastic connector at 7000 miles
4 gear shift lever broke off in 1st gear at 15000 miles
5 hydrolic center stand stopped working around 20000 miles
6 and the ever annoying mirrors falling off when hitting a bump. (be sure they
tied down)

I now have 36000 miles and have not had any problems in nearly 2 years. I guess all the bugs got worked out. Its a great bike. :bmw: Instead of getting rid of it when the warranty expired I got the extended warranty.

[beeper]

Good info, thank you all very kindly. :)

Really looking forward to experiencing a BMW for the first time. :cool:

[dglenn1]

I will be test riding an '05 LT this weekend with @32,000 miles on it. I have been mostly looking into the 99-02 models for the smaller price but this one is fairly nearby and the price is pretty decent. I realize some changes were made in '05 and was wondering if there are any new issues that arise with the upgraded model as opposed to the older units.
Also what exactly are all the changes made in '05?

Thanks. :)
Agree with everything so far.
My 2 cents. I know your looking for new issues but I only have experience with my '05:

Get down there and shake the rear brake disk around and make sure there are no issues with excessive play.
More than tethers (An easy fix) Remove the mirrors and look for any damage to the mounts or plastic. Very expensive parts and mine always seem to be damaged one way or another.

Haven't had many other issues with it. Been a fine machine overall.

[Lare]

For what it's worth, if you ever decide to put in the Dice electronics gizmo that takes out the CD changer and lets you control your iPod in its place, there is an issue with the display of the text.

The Dice site says "Text display is limited on 05-06 models." If this is something you're considering, a search in the Accessories section should give you more information. (I haven't done this but I've been looking into it for my '03.)

[rbots]

I got my 05 with 16,000 on it, waited for the 05 for reasons stated by others. Only problem has been the mirror issue, that was repaired under warr. Paid for extended warr though pinnacle. If there is still factory warr left on the bike you can purchase the extended at a better price. ABS & touring package are also available though pinnacle. Good luck, it's a great bike.

[MattKas]

Go for 07 or 08 if you can afford it.

I will be test riding an '05 LT this weekend with @32,000 miles on it. I have been mostly looking into the 99-02 models for the smaller price but this one is fairly nearby and the price is pretty decent. I realize some changes were made in '05 and was wondering if there are any new issues that arise with the upgraded model as opposed to the older units.
Also what exactly are all the changes made in '05?

Thanks. :)