2009 BMW R1200 RT Transmission and drivetrain Problems

“Catastrophic failure of the rear differential (final drive). The drive began making grinding and squealing noises. I then felt the rear wheel loosing traction. I pulled to the shoulder immediately. I noticed at that time a brake failure warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. My rear brake was ineffective. Upon examining the drive area there was gear oil all over the rear brake caliper, disc and rear wheel, including the tire. …”

“In response to a request from owners with similar problems to report these to the NHTSA, I am adding my own information: during a tire-change service, the dealer's mechanic noted that the bearing in the rear wheel final drive had become crunchy and needed to be replaced. Upon pointing out the problem, I was able to detect the resistance in the wheel myself. The dealer replaced the bearing under warranty and on comparison with a new bearing, there was definitely resistance and a lack of smooth function in the original bearing. …”

“Bmw model r1200rt years 2005 - 2013 may be subject to throttle cable assembly failure. The throttle body system on the 2009 year model is assembled by bing power in nuremberg, germany and utilized by Bmw in motorcycles with the 1170 cc boxer motor. (bing is a longstanding company which in general manufactures first-rate products.)the primary throttle cable extends from the handle bar to a splitter from which two separate throttle cables extend to left and right hand throttle bodies which house the fuel injection system. …”

“2009 Bmw r1200rt motorcycle rear bearing failure that LED to a final drive failure. Bike just turned 14000 miles when a grinding noise occurred and couldn't figure out where it came from. After stopping for the day, noticed rear wheel had 3/8 inch play and final drive fluid leaked all over rear wheel causing no rear brakes. The bike was trailered home and the entire final drive replaced under warranty. Luckily no injuries although no rear brakes. This bike is used on the road for commuting and touring at highway speeds.”

“The Bmw motorcycle was being ridden at interstate speeds when it began to develop a vibration. The vehicle was slowed and the first available exit was taken. By this time the rear wheel felt like it was going to lock up. The motorcycle was stopped at the first safe parking and a wrecker was dispatched. The repair facility informed me that the driveshaft universal joint had failed and was beating against the swing arm which could have been a total failure. The driveshaft is not a teardown and inspect item and therefore leaves the rider with no warning of impending failure. …”