2013 BMW R 1200 R fuel system complaints

Filed Aug 8, 2013 · Electrical, Fuel system · 750 miles · AZ

The fuel gauge ceased working and registers empty all the time. The "low fuel" light is illuminated despite having gone only 50 miles since filling the tank. Visual examination confirms the tank is approx. 3/4 full. From a very brief investigation, I discovered this has been a common issue with the r1200r for several years. I am reporting in hopes that pressure can be brought for real fix by bmw instead of simply replacing faulty fuel strips with more faulty fuel strips. Some owners report having the strips replaced 4-5 times within a 3 year period. The mode of failure can be intermittent operation, constant "full" reading, or a constant "empty" reading. Since I live in the arizona desert, I frequently can be many miles from any assistance, and not having accurate knowledge of my fuel situation could be extremely dangerous.

Filed Feb 16, 2013 · Fuel system · 25 miles · NJ

Purchased a brand new 2013 bmw r1200r motorcycle and within 10 miles of riding away from dealer low fuel warning comes on and fuel gauges no longer working. Stopped at nearest gas station and checked gas tank to find full tank of gas as dealer stated. Called dealer and was told to continue to ride motorcycle for 50 miles and computer should re-set. Continued to ride for 50 miles and no resolution. Contacted dealer again and I was told I need to come in for service to replace fuel sensor strip. On a brand new motorcycle I feel this is unacceptable. Upon researching the problem I learned and the dealer confirmed this has been an on going issue with bmw motorcycles for years. Very disappointing to learn after spending $17,000 on a brand new motorcycle. Bmw has not resolved the issue other than inconveniencing people to return for service. If the bike is no longer under warranty its a costly fix. More than just inconvenience, this is also a safety issue because the rider can unknowingly run out of gas if the gauges aren't working properly which can put a rider in harms way. I've also learned that bmw had the same issue with the 2010-2011 5-series cars and had a safety recall put into effect to resolve issue. Why are the motorcycles not being handled in the same fashion? It's just as much of a safety issue if not more considering the physical exposure on a motorcycle. It's unacceptable to purchase a brand new bmw motorcycle and be faced with a malfunction issue that has been going on for years. Bmw should not be allowed to sell equipment that they are well aware of is faulty. Something needs to be done, there are literally thousands of motorcycle owners with the same problem. This needs to be investigated immediately.