[edmann]

Can someone tell me what the function of that spacer in the front wheel is? ( located between the wheel bearings) Inquiring minds want to know! Thanks, Ed

 

[K100Dennis]

It holds the 2 bearing inner raceways apart at exactly the right distance to prevent axial load when the axle securing nut is tightened. Never, ever, leave it out as the result will most definitely cause a risk to your life !

 

[Scouter-50]

Can someone tell me what the function of that spacer in the front wheel is? ( located between the wheel bearings) Inquiring minds want to know! Thanks, Ed

I can't say for sure on the K1200, but every other BMW I have owned it is to keep the proper pre-load on the inner races of the bearings. Without it you would side load the ball bearings and destroy them.
Robert