[watchful]

Hi,
I have an opportunity to buy my first BMW as a 1996 K1100 LT, I am a little worry , since I never bought a used Motorcycle, especially 16 years old... ...??? New tires and battery.
What are my risks (wiring, engine etc.)
THanks,
W.

 

[JPSpen]

Take it for a drive.. If it seems ok. It's OK !

The older K's are really, really, bulletproof. They'll go forever if you take care of them..

Lots of simple early technology... A lot less to go wrong..

I guarantee you'll love it..

If you don't buy it, Call me.. I like older BMW's.

Bounce it up and down a few times and look at the fork seals.. Look at the driveshaft sections where the various pieces join together for oil leaks... Clean is good.. A little funky is fine.. More than that and you'll probably need a couple of seals or something...

Make sure the transmission is shifting properly... If you miss the 1,2 shift, That's normally no biggie, But if you find false neutrals between gears.. That's an alarm..

Should have early ABS.. Don't wreck the bike testing it...

No blinking lights after the bike rolls out.. Before is ok.. But not after..

John

 

[watchful]

Thank you John. Would $4,500 sound OK to pay for it ?? The owner told me he just found a crack in the exhaust and going to "fix"....? it !!
W.

 

[GUNTER1100]

I have a 1994 K1100 bought it new & have 68K on it. Had to replace fork seals twice, & exhaust leak once. Also had to rebuild the master cylinder as it was leaking a bit. ABS blinking lights once, the dealer cleared it & no problems since. They are a smooth ride, & simple to work on, but very few things go wrong. $4500 seems a good price if the mileage is not excessive. Do you have access to the records on maintainance? What color is it?

 

[watchful]

It is Red, 44.000 Km. Was standing idle for 10 yeas..!!...but the owner's mechanic revive it.....with new battery and tires. I am worried about hidden problems like what you described!! (seals, etc.)
W.

 

[GUNTER1100]

Because it sat idle for so long, I would have a compression check done. Also look very carefully at gaskets, as they tend to dry out without use for that long. Fork seals are not too expensive to replace. If you notice a fork seal leak get it resolved ASAP, as the leaking fluid will get into the front pads, & stopping fast is compromised. Red is the fastest color. Take it for a long test ride under various road conditions. If you know someone in your area that has or still owns one of similar vintage have them give it a spin. If it feels right, go for it. If your gut says mabe not, then walk away.