Too many whistles and bells. We really don't need all of them to enjoy the transport that a motorcycle should be. Yes after 45 years of riding everything from Minsk 125 to modern BMWs I've now got an R90S and an 1100GS. Keep it simple and forget about the whistles and bells is my advice ride more often and don't worry about the tech. 😊
Lithium batteries are different beasts. I have one I put on my bike (2019 Triumph Speed Triple RS). When cold out, turn the bike on (but don't try to start right away). Let it sit for 30 seconds, and then boom - it'll go 100% of the time assuming the battery is in good shape.
Your problem is the cold starts. Leave headlights on for a while, warms the lithium, then start. ALTERNATIVELY: get it replaced under warranty and get option 842 cold climate. Gives you lead acid and ecu coding for that.
Lithium batteries like to be warmed up prior to starting, couple of mins is usually enough, also your heated grips shouldn’t come on until the bike is running 👍
LOVE your videos and I'm definitely not attempting to sound like a, "know it all." Having said that, I think there's a misunderstanding on how lithium batteries work. I’ve used Shorai batteries for years and can’t say enough good things about them. A lithium battery must be treated exactly bass ackwards from a conventional lead acid battery when it gets cold. When the temperature drops, a lithium battery must be “excited” in order for it to develop cranking amperage. Notice how your bike started after a couple of start attempts (read the start attempts "excited" the battery). Don't hold me to this, but I firmly believe if you would have turned on the ignition, and possibly some lights, then waited for up to one minute, it would have cranked perfectly. Doesn’t sound like your BMW technician is up to speed on how lithium batteries work either. I would think this anomaly would be addressed in the R1300GS owner’s manual. Ride safe and thanks again for the great job you do.
im experiencing the same problem, and I thought it could be something related to what you mention, and I guess we all need to get used to these new battery types, but I will mention it to my dealer to see what they say.
I always appreciate your realistic, real world assessments, comments, and videos. Honestly gave up on BMW bikes years ago. Just like their cars which I still love, but they are just computers mounted on wheels really. Looking forward to see how the dealer treated you Tomorrow. Thanks.
I’m going to call my Dealer (have already noted, on the inquiry after the 1000kms service…). I have exactly the same symptoms on mine! Thank you very much Scott for sharing the issue! 👍🏻👍🏻
Nothing wrong with the battery. Leave the ignition on and headlight on for 30 seconds before starting in temperatures under 10 degree Celsius. It will start no problem. Its just the lithium cells warming up before putting out full voltage.
Thank you. I will consider this on the evaluation of the issue but, it’s occurring under temperatures above 10 º C and after waiting more than 30 seconds to switch the bike on. But thank you for your opinion 👍🏻
It doesn’t like heat either. At 37C the batteries are overheating. We have the later models in Australia. Also the battery lying around is BS. Lithium batteries hold there charge for a long time and if the bike started when it was first picked up. It should have charged.
This is EXACTLY the same shit as they did on the R1250 GS ... I had 3 replacements from BMW for my battery. Changed to a proper LiPo and NO issues whatsoever ... I am shocked that they didn't learned or wanted to from their olds mistakes
also, Since the battery is lithium it wont react well to a normal charging cycle from your average battery charger, and its CCA will always be lower than a lead acid equivalent, and it wont last half as long, and they have a weird capacity memory thing that effectively make them think they are smaller every time they are used (glass mat batteries do that too to be clear) ok ill shut up now lol once a luddite always a luddite i guess 🙂
@@JoeS97756 a better idea that a blowtorch lol, perhaps thas what the short in the solenoid cct is for 🤣🤣🤣 i remember using a parrafin heater under the block on old diesel trucks so they were easier to start in winter lol, progress eh 🙂
Can' believe this! Really, on the new 1300GS? I have a R1250GS. This time last year I had issues with starting, very similar to this but not temp related. The Battery (standard) was a AGM Battery. Apparently there was a batch of faulty batteries. Cutting a long story short (all details on my CLLUK). I was so fed up I decided to get a MotoBatt MHTX16 (AGM/Li Hybrid - The best of both technologies). The starting is bloody amazing, even in cold weather. Very happy now
Ordered a R1300GS in December and cancelled it after delivery was delayed due to the starter relay issues. Now have a 2024 Africa Twin and so happy with it. My ATAS has a lithium battery and that doesn’t seem to need ‘waking up’ regardless of the temperature. And I also have several thousand £ left in the bank… BMW is taking you all for a ride! 😂😂😂
I've just returned from the last service (recall) and I have exactly the same problem as you describe. Up until now my 1300GS has been at the dealer more than at my place, very frustrating!
thanks for sharing, I'm experiencing the same issues with my one, so this information is really helpful, mines its going in for a service this weekend, so I will mention this issue, I never flagged it before, as I just thought its something unique to these lithium batteries, and it always eventually starts after one or two attempts but it doesn't do it all the time like yours appears to, mines is more random.
I put a lithium Shido battery on my K 1300S, and ran it for over a year in Scotland UK. It was fine in the summer; not so great in the winter, I have to park my bike outside at work overnight sometimes scraping the frost off the seat to go home. Like previous posts say you have to "wake them up". I changed back to a AGM battery for peace of mind.
Hi and thanks for this video, I have a 2019 R1250R and after flattening the battery by leaving the bike on with the engine off for too long I’ve had nothing but issues. After trying cheaper pattern part batteries last year I finally bit the bullet and paid £175 to my BMW dealer for a new BMW battery in June last year. After not riding much over winter even the new battery is not very strong as we enter the new season and I’m having to trickle charge this brand new battery to get it to work ok. Really disappointing for me, but for you, having paid £20k plus for your new GS… it’s just ridiculous! Having nerves about whether the bike will start or not kind of ruins the enjoyment or your willingness to travel anywhere other than local!
Scott, exactly same issue here since the beginning. Mine was delivered Nov 20, but other 1300 I know with the same problem are from january and february. Of course my dealer said 3 weeks ago I am the first one reporting...the ecu showed plenty failures, battery was changed just for a test and still same effect. So they reinstalled my original battery and now waiting for an software update. Fortunately the bike starts finally always, usually at first press, but sometimes only after 2-3-4 attempts. Cold and warm, heated grips on and off, Neutral or first gear, it is kind of random. In my case it get´s minimised when starting in N and heated grips aren´t activated.
I have the same issues with my 2023 R1300GS. Also I noticed that for me, the heated grips are on at first but as soon as I have the first start failure they are deactivated. The manual says that if the battery voltage is too low, some loads will be automatically disabled. So I think that this and the other error are connected to each other. You can also see that happening in your video at 5:09. Before you try to start, the grips are still active. As soon as the start fails, the grips are disabled. You can't see that at the beginning of the video because you try to start before the TFT is ready. Looking forward to your update on this. If they change your battery and if that actually solves your issues, I need to talk to my dealer too.
Yes, but I have been on other lithium battery bikes, just this last year, and they start right up right away every time. And this bike did not do this at first, it took some time to get to where it is now. So, there is something wrong with the battery or software or both.
Thee's a video of TeapotOne riding a new GS around the UK in one trip a few years ago. As he rides out of Wales at night time the GS puts progressively puts out more alarming messages on the display as various sub systems fail due to low power. Eventually the bike died completely and needed recovery. Faulty battery on a new bike. Good luck with your bike and best wishes.
Not surprising that some of the newer bikes have some issues, at least BMW are pretty good about getting that kind of stuff sorted. I've had my XR going on 3 years now and have had zero issues with the lithium battery but I do have it on a battery charger when not riding it regularly.
Same here. But having said that, the battery of my GS1250 2021 had to be replaced as well after 2 years as it's capacity was only 52% anymore, causing on a regular basis problems starting the bike.
Have a 2019 1250 that hasn't given any trouble, but it is on a BMW trickle/reconditioning charger when not riding (or the tracker would drain it). Well done embracing the new 1300 offering though!@@dirkjacobs440
I picked my 1300GS up in December and had quite a few problems from day one (BMW have sorted them all without delay, mine has been displaying these same symptoms, it either comes up starter protection alarm or the electric screen temp not working when the bike doesn't start first push on the starter button, I also have the heated grips & seat not coming back on intermittently too, have already had the starter relay changed so was starting to wonder what else had gone wrong, thanks for the heads up, I will get mine to the dealer asap.
Never had issues in the more than 40 years of driving motorbikes during winter. One in a year of 4 to 5 replace a battery. This is not acceptable whatever they tell you. And lithium batteries are the future, will buy a spare for mij current GS from 2013 😂
I had a similar problem with bike 1250RT 2023 (9,345km) I get stock 2 times on the road unable to restart the engine. My battery is not a lithium and the bike was plugged on a maintenance charger. I went to the dealer yesterday after a very long diagnostic process (4hrs waiting) they come to the conclusion the battery had a shortage inside and they replaced it. They did not mentioned software update. Little trick I get boost on the road using my charger plugged in my electric car 😊
I hope so too, I drop it off tomorrow morning and pick it back up on Friday...we shall see...so Friday, when I pick it up, I'll be having the gopro on 👍
I have had the same problem with a 2021 1250GSA. Dealer advised that I should switch the engine off with the keyless button rather than the kill swsitch or sidestand. Apparently it leaves the engine in the optimum position to start next time. All battereis hate sub-zero temperatures, not just lithium ones.
Lithium batteries are a little tricky, if its going to be properly cold I take it out and put it on the trickle charger INSIDE not even in the garage. So far Ive never had an issue with that method. But my battery is in a dirt bike so its easy to remove I know some bikes can be a pain.
Had the same problem with mine in the uk , tried to say it was the tracker. After having it for a few weeks it came back the lithium battery was at fault. It was under warranty, but I asked it to be replaced with an ordinary battery no trouble since 2020 1250 gsa .
"I have heard"...🙄...that lithium batteries need to warm up a bit. They need to be under some load for a few seconds to really get going. Maybe that's why it starts on the second or third attempt. "I've been told" , that you should turn the lights on for a few seconds before pressing start...🤔 Just saying....but I ride an Africa Twin....so "I have nothing to prove"...🥳😊
I was told a long time ago that in cold weather you have to stir a lithium battery pressthe starter and then turn off twice maybe 3 times . Looks as if that might be the case with yours ,I have a Aprilia with a lithium battery and some times I have to start it like your Beemer.
Even with my 1250 GSA the traditional battery dies if the bike is not ridden for just a month of cold winter while the anti-theft alarm is on and the navigation is mounted. I had to buy the original BMW Motorrad Battery Charger (the one with a cube shape) to avoid the winter storage issue.
You need to leave the ignition on for about 30 seconds with a load , headlight or heated grips for the lithium battery to warm up and come up to voltage. Then you will have no issues. You can watch it in real time if you choose my vehicle option on the display. The voltage may start at 11.0 and will come up all the way to 12.6 slowly.
@@ioandragulescu6063 I have a 2022 s1000rr. I have swapped to an aftermarket lithium for over a year with no issues. The only message you will get is fault in ecu advising you to contact the workshop. It does not say low battery.
@@arnoldtm31 well, that's a bit different. But if a bike is designed from the ground up with a lithium battery, this situation should be taken into account, especially on a top of the line model as the GS. I also have an aftermarket lithium on my "cheapo" V Strom 1050 and had one on my previous 650 and never had an issue but I never leave my bike outside so ... yeah.
@@chrishart8548 If the temperature is under 10DegC , and the battery is lithium, then yes. It helps the cells to come up in temperature. Don't do it on a lead acid battery. I only have the headlight on for this purpose. Never the heated grips.
I think there may be something to the storage rumor. The completed motorcycles are shipped to dealers with the batteries in a separate box (by law) and are not fully charged. The service tech charges the battery. However, as noted in your manual, lithium batteries will be fine, sitting for up to six months in moderate temperatures, but are NOT fine if they are allowed to drop below a minimal state of charge. That shortens their lives. It may well be that BMW took longer than expected to release the new model and that the initial batch of batteries sat around too long. As for the heated grips and seat: I believe there is a protective feature that does not allow either to turn on if the battery voltage is borderline (similar to every vehicle cutting lights and accessories during cranking). One more thing: Periodically (once a year or so) remove the battery from the motorcycle and inspect it. For example, can you spin it on its base? If so, it is beginning to swell, which is dangerous, and is due for replacement. Most modern bikes have a circuit constantly in use, “looking” for the key fob transponder. The only way to completely stop battery drain is to disconnect the cables from the terminals.
I know, the modern conveniences etc, but man, there is just way too much in the way of sensitive electronics on modern bikes. I'm an ex-programmer and current system admin and the less I have to do with anything software related, the happier I am. Also, the whole lithium battery craze is just silly, I think. The kilo or two you save, that is sitting directly underneath you is not worth it. I would just get a sealed gel battery. It's more reliable.
I had low battery warnings and strange messages on the TFT" (the engine even died on me at a stop sign )on my 2020 GSA and I finally thought to take the battery out and clean the battery posts mainly and the cable ends till they were "shiny" and that fixed it". Was not the Lithium battery though.
That problem is carried over from the 1250 in all variants ..my gs did it my mates 1250rs still does it .. I swear it's a problem with the shift cam system
Bullshit I have 1250 GSA 2020 and my battery it’s still original And I never keep my bike on the charger in winter !!! The only thing is I have bought the test bike with 1270 kilometers on the clock and 5 year extended warranty. An also I never buy a bike in the first year of production!!! That’s why the proper GS means THE ADVENTURE version will only come out this November!!! This is basic normal gs it’s a girls bike 😂 I have tested one and didn’t like at all . I’ll keep my 1250 GSA WITH CARBON SC PROJET it a mean machine 🎉
LOL, my German dealership replaced that before I took delivery of this bike in Nov. 18th 2023. It's a work-a-round and I will need the actual replacement for warranty purposes but what I have in there now will last longer than the bike.
Still running the original battery on my 2020 R1250RT - I have considered using lithium when this battery is done, but since they seem to last this long time, might just replace it with the same when it finally dies ;)
Lithium is infinitely better. Have them on my s1000rr and 1290 SAS. Just leave them on for at least 30 seconds with the headlight on for them to warm up and the voltage to rise. It will start right up.
I'm still running the original battery on my 2014 F800GS it's over 10 years old now and still works fine. Still not sure about lithium. When it finally goes I'm wondering if I could have half lead acid and half lithium. Just connected together.
Do you use a battery monitor? I know you have to get one that works with lithium batteries but if you're not riding it every day and using the heated grips and seat a lot it makes sense. I've had an optimate 4 since 2015 which I've used on all 4 of the BMWs I've had since then as a preventative measure on the GSM batteries and all 4 have never had any problem starting. Obviously if you have a duff battery that's a seperate issue but having a battery tender on when not using the bike can only help?
Worrying isn't it? I bought a tiger 1200 GT PRO in December 23, A month later I got a fault display on the dash, "Front Position Fault". Apparently a headlight fault. Triumph had the headlight replaced the next day. Does make you worry but I can't fault Triumph for customer care. Hope all goes well with your BMW
TBH I’m not sure it’s the battery as it hasn’t got that flat sound and it spins up ok when it gets the chance, as others have mentioned it seems like the starter solenoid isn’t letting it turn over long enough 🤔
Unfortunately Scott you’re not on your own. In the UK the top boxes are being held back as well and all the problems you’ve mentioned are being talked about including oil leaks. I have a GSA and am waiting to see the new model but it’s very disappointing to see so many recalls on a long awaited model from a company of which we all expect high standards.
I had the same problem with my new 1250 gs after 9 months battery packed up , later found out the battery was older than the new bike , after a 4 month battle they agreed to replace it ! Shame on you bmw 🤦♂️
All this tech they keep putting on modern bikes all needs power ,alot of power. And then software updates, never ending cycle of potential never ending niggles , overlay sensitive issues to suck any enjoyment out of your ride..do I need to plan my trip around the dealer network.?
I read that BMW is the car manufacturer with the highest margin. Until a few years ago almost all of the components were quality and made in Italy. Now they have cheaper products from other states....
@@moppedbuaontour Many BMW auxiliary components have historically been made in Italy by brands like Magneti Marelli. Mechanical parts are mostly made in Germany and Austria
lol, i worked in a swiss firm, with the plant in italy, and we made A LOT of electronics/leds/plastic components for BMW and PORSCHE you can't even imagine. World is round ehehehehe @@moppedbuaontour
My HD has an 11 year old lithium ion battery and stays outside all winter, I just started it for the 1st time in 4 months, no trickle charger, no problem, as usual.
same happened to me. Stopped to fill the tank after 5hours ride, battery died and i was left stranded like an idiot with a month old 31.000 euro bike. Jeez.
I had a new KTM last year and battery died after 3 months {lead acid}and also had software problems on a model that was around for 5 years ! Kept getting software ECU warnings Needless to say I sold it as KTM seems to not fix problems - I expect software issues in a new model - that is reality, the issue is how BMW responds and compared to KTM it is night and day. Even Harley had some problems with software and battery on pan America and fixed them. I like the latest and expect some issues as long as the brand stands behind the product.
Can anyone tell me why the manufacturer's warranty on Honda motorcycles is 1 year but BMW always has 3 years? Does this have anything to do with quality?
BMW is luxury bike just like their cars and the affluent individuals who buy them new are leasing or intending to trade out for new most likely before warranty expires. BMW knows no one would buy their product without some protection during lease period due to their reputation on reliability and high cost of repair.. BMW customers in many ways are their testbed and the early adopter types wanting the latest and greatest gizmos. Anyone who buys a new BMW motorcycle and faces huge repair bill in year 2 or 3 would probably never buy again. The Japanese manufacturers are more conservative and fully test and validate their new tech before releasing to market. Thus they are late to introduce tech to the market. Journalists insult them for their methodical approach but would I much rather applaud them. Who really wants to be on a motorcycle trip ruined by such an experience? Joy turned into stress or frustration. BMW makes impressive, cool products but my time, peace of mind, and predictable cost of ownership is waaaay more important than the latest and greatest. From my view tech that is one half generation behind BMW is 95% the experience without the peril or strain on my wallet.
I bet it's not the battery even before hearing the "rumor" but system/software. However, you'll never know since they gonna change both of them. Or will they?? Just put a mark under the battery and check if it's really replaced. It's easy to blame external components instead of accepting their faults for BMW
yap, If it is as everyone has analyzed, this problem is caused by the characteristics of lithium batteries. Then replacing another lithium battery won't help. I prefer that this is a problem of system design, or software, or circuit.
If the battery is "defective" why does is start suddenly with what sounds like "full power"? And what is defective battery? Is it weak battery or what? Battery is a very simple thing.
Hi , I've had 6 GS's/GS.A.s since 2006 as well as a K1600 and XR1000 and had issues with every one!!,I should say the first edition of each one! the reason I will NEVER buy a first Gen BMW again!!
Looks like you are victim of BMW poor batteries policy my friend, lithium or not. I bought a brand new R1250RT, Jul 2023, non lithium battery. Put togheter nearly 7000kms the first month, than while on holiday in August, i stopped to a gas station. Turned off the bike (keyless) opened the tank cap, filled the tank, closed the cap and started the bike. Or at least tried to, as the battery was dead. Barely the current to turn on the top case inner led. So i was left stranded and had to call a flatbed truck, that took my bike to a dealer the next day (battery obviously picked a sunday to fail on me) and had to call a taxi for the 150km tripo back to home ($$$). Battery replaced, and no issue since that, BUT cmon, 31.000 euros bike with low quality battery on it, and i'm not the only one with this same exact issue. BMW can't keep on cheaping out on batteries over top tier bike like these, jeez.
That 's the reason I will never buy again,even if they are good bikes,a BMW ,for premium price I expect premium reliability,so I now buy Honda! good luke with early produced model,it takes one or 2 years to solve the hardware and software problems!imagine yourself driving on Ruta 40 in Patagonia......
VFR800, 24 years old, battery 17 years old (yes really), just failed 😉 and I think I brought it on by not keeping it on the optimate (batt tender) In fairness a battery can fail even when new.... But as I totally hate the 1300gs for being a small ugly bike thats over-rated and overpriced.... I blame the bike in this case 😮
Ah BMW the standard bearer of engineering / reality is crap reliability. If a Japanese bike did this the owners would be going mental. God knows why German stuff gets a free pass - ridiculous.
I sympathize. After 64 years of riding and three BMW motorcycles from new, I now ride Hondas. I sleep much better.
Too many whistles and bells. We really don't need all of them to enjoy the transport that a motorcycle should be. Yes after 45 years of riding everything from Minsk 125 to modern BMWs I've now got an R90S and an 1100GS. Keep it simple and forget about the whistles and bells is my advice ride more often and don't worry about the tech.
😊
Ha! Only 50 years riding and 2 BMW's but I also switched back to Honda (NT1100 DCT).
Lithium batteries are different beasts. I have one I put on my bike (2019 Triumph Speed Triple RS). When cold out, turn the bike on (but don't try to start right away). Let it sit for 30 seconds, and then boom - it'll go 100% of the time assuming the battery is in good shape.
Your problem is the cold starts. Leave headlights on for a while, warms the lithium, then start. ALTERNATIVELY: get it replaced under warranty and get option 842 cold climate. Gives you lead acid and ecu coding for that.
The six year old lithium battery on my Africa Twin has seen freezing winters, has never seen a charger; so far, so good . . . I think.
Lithium batteries like to be warmed up prior to starting, couple of mins is usually enough, also your heated grips shouldn’t come on until the bike is running 👍
LOVE your videos and I'm definitely not attempting to sound like a, "know it all." Having said that, I think there's a misunderstanding on how lithium batteries work. I’ve used Shorai batteries for years and can’t say enough good things about them. A lithium battery must be treated exactly bass ackwards from a conventional lead acid battery when it gets cold. When the temperature drops, a lithium battery must be “excited” in order for it to develop cranking amperage. Notice how your bike started after a couple of start attempts (read the start attempts "excited" the battery). Don't hold me to this, but I firmly believe if you would have turned on the ignition, and possibly some lights, then waited for up to one minute, it would have cranked perfectly. Doesn’t sound like your BMW technician is up to speed on how lithium batteries work either. I would think this anomaly would be addressed in the R1300GS owner’s manual. Ride safe and thanks again for the great job you do.
What a faff! Good to know though
im experiencing the same problem, and I thought it could be something related to what you mention, and I guess we all need to get used to these new battery types, but I will mention it to my dealer to see what they say.
Always love to hear from a fellow cyclist!@@cyclingbikerwholovestotinker
I always appreciate your realistic, real world assessments, comments, and videos. Honestly gave up on BMW bikes years ago. Just like their cars which I still love, but they are just computers mounted on wheels really. Looking forward to see how the dealer treated you Tomorrow. Thanks.
I’m going to call my Dealer (have already noted, on the inquiry after the 1000kms service…). I have exactly the same symptoms on mine!
Thank you very much Scott for sharing the issue!
👍🏻👍🏻
Nothing wrong with the battery. Leave the ignition on and headlight on for 30 seconds before starting in temperatures under 10 degree Celsius. It will start no problem. Its just the lithium cells warming up before putting out full voltage.
Thank you. I will consider this on the evaluation of the issue but, it’s occurring under temperatures above 10 º C and after waiting more than 30 seconds to switch the bike on. But thank you for your opinion
👍🏻
It doesn’t like heat either. At 37C the batteries are overheating. We have the later models in Australia. Also the battery lying around is BS. Lithium batteries hold there charge for a long time and if the bike started when it was first picked up. It should have charged.
I heard there was a problem with a starter relay too and some have caught fire. Get them to check that
its the wiring harnes rubbing through and shorting the solenoid cct
This is EXACTLY the same shit as they did on the R1250 GS ... I had 3 replacements from BMW for my battery. Changed to a proper LiPo and NO issues whatsoever ... I am shocked that they didn't learned or wanted to from their olds mistakes
I know everything is not perfect but damn that's a lot of money and everything should be perfect anyway thanks for sharing
Since the battery is lithium, you should wait for it to warm up for a few seconds first and then turn it on.
also, Since the battery is lithium it wont react well to a normal charging cycle from your average battery charger, and its CCA will always be lower than a lead acid equivalent, and it wont last half as long, and they have a weird capacity memory thing that effectively make them think they are smaller every time they are used (glass mat batteries do that too to be clear) ok ill shut up now lol once a luddite always a luddite i guess 🙂
Not clear on how you wait for it to warm up? Turn on ignition but don't start?
@@JoeS97756 a better idea that a blowtorch lol, perhaps thas what the short in the solenoid cct is for 🤣🤣🤣 i remember using a parrafin heater under the block on old diesel trucks so they were easier to start in winter lol, progress eh 🙂
@@JoeS97756yeap.
Can' believe this! Really, on the new 1300GS? I have a R1250GS. This time last year I had issues with starting, very similar to this but not temp related. The Battery (standard) was a AGM Battery. Apparently there was a batch of faulty batteries. Cutting a long story short (all details on my CLLUK). I was so fed up I decided to get a MotoBatt MHTX16 (AGM/Li Hybrid - The best of both technologies). The starting is bloody amazing, even in cold weather. Very happy now
Ordered a R1300GS in December and cancelled it after delivery was delayed due to the starter relay issues. Now have a 2024 Africa Twin and so happy with it. My ATAS has a lithium battery and that doesn’t seem to need ‘waking up’ regardless of the temperature. And I also have several thousand £ left in the bank… BMW is taking you all for a ride! 😂😂😂
I've just returned from the last service (recall) and I have exactly the same problem as you describe. Up until now my 1300GS has been at the dealer more than at my place, very frustrating!
Owning a BMW adventure bike is always an adventure! Always a surprise, never boring!
thanks for sharing, I'm experiencing the same issues with my one, so this information is really helpful, mines its going in for a service this weekend, so I will mention this issue, I never flagged it before, as I just thought its something unique to these lithium batteries, and it always eventually starts after one or two attempts but it doesn't do it all the time like yours appears to, mines is more random.
I put a lithium Shido battery on my K 1300S, and ran it for over a year in Scotland UK. It was fine in the summer; not so great in the winter, I have to park my bike outside at work overnight sometimes scraping the frost off the seat to go home. Like previous posts say you have to "wake them up".
I changed back to a AGM battery for peace of mind.
Hi and thanks for this video, I have a 2019 R1250R and after flattening the battery by leaving the bike on with the engine off for too long I’ve had nothing but issues. After trying cheaper pattern part batteries last year I finally bit the bullet and paid £175 to my BMW dealer for a new BMW battery in June last year. After not riding much over winter even the new battery is not very strong as we enter the new season and I’m having to trickle charge this brand new battery to get it to work ok. Really disappointing for me, but for you, having paid £20k plus for your new GS… it’s just ridiculous! Having nerves about whether the bike will start or not kind of ruins the enjoyment or your willingness to travel anywhere other than local!
Scott, exactly same issue here since the beginning. Mine was delivered Nov 20, but other 1300 I know with the same problem are from january and february.
Of course my dealer said 3 weeks ago I am the first one reporting...the ecu showed plenty failures, battery was changed just for a test and still same effect. So they reinstalled my original battery and now waiting for an software update.
Fortunately the bike starts finally always, usually at first press, but sometimes only after 2-3-4 attempts. Cold and warm, heated grips on and off, Neutral or first gear, it is kind of random. In my case it get´s minimised when starting in N and heated grips aren´t activated.
I have the same issues with my 2023 R1300GS. Also I noticed that for me, the heated grips are on at first but as soon as I have the first start failure they are deactivated. The manual says that if the battery voltage is too low, some loads will be automatically disabled. So I think that this and the other error are connected to each other. You can also see that happening in your video at 5:09. Before you try to start, the grips are still active. As soon as the start fails, the grips are disabled. You can't see that at the beginning of the video because you try to start before the TFT is ready.
Looking forward to your update on this. If they change your battery and if that actually solves your issues, I need to talk to my dealer too.
Battery is fine that's how lithium battery works. In cold they don't have full draw until a load is applied. Then it takes a few seconds.
Yes, but I have been on other lithium battery bikes, just this last year, and they start right up right away every time. And this bike did not do this at first, it took some time to get to where it is now. So, there is something wrong with the battery or software or both.
My Triumph has a lithium battery and it does not have this issue.
Thee's a video of TeapotOne riding a new GS around the UK in one trip a few years ago. As he rides out of Wales at night time the GS puts progressively puts out more alarming messages on the display as various sub systems fail due to low power. Eventually the bike died completely and needed recovery. Faulty battery on a new bike. Good luck with your bike and best wishes.
Not surprising that some of the newer bikes have some issues, at least BMW are pretty good about getting that kind of stuff sorted. I've had my XR going on 3 years now and have had zero issues with the lithium battery but I do have it on a battery charger when not riding it regularly.
BMW are pretty good at it because they have so much practice
@@davea9946 LOL!
Yep! I’ll stick with my 1250.. easier on the eye too.
What he said 👆
Same here. But having said that, the battery of my GS1250 2021 had to be replaced as well after 2 years as it's capacity was only 52% anymore, causing on a regular basis problems starting the bike.
Have a 2019 1250 that hasn't given any trouble, but it is on a BMW trickle/reconditioning charger when not riding (or the tracker would drain it). Well done embracing the new 1300 offering though!@@dirkjacobs440
@@dirkjacobs440 same here !
I picked my 1300GS up in December and had quite a few problems from day one (BMW have sorted them all without delay, mine has been displaying these same symptoms, it either comes up starter protection alarm or the electric screen temp not working when the bike doesn't start first push on the starter button, I also have the heated grips & seat not coming back on intermittently too, have already had the starter relay changed so was starting to wonder what else had gone wrong, thanks for the heads up, I will get mine to the dealer asap.
This is why I'll keep my R1250GS for some time before I upgrade, maybe wait for the R1350GS!
The GS has been catching fire too
Never had issues in the more than 40 years of driving motorbikes during winter. One in a year of 4 to 5 replace a battery. This is not acceptable whatever they tell you. And lithium batteries are the future, will buy a spare for mij current GS from 2013 😂
I had a similar problem with bike 1250RT 2023 (9,345km) I get stock 2 times on the road unable to restart the engine. My battery is not a lithium and the bike was plugged on a maintenance charger. I went to the dealer yesterday after a very long diagnostic process (4hrs waiting) they come to the conclusion the battery had a shortage inside and they replaced it. They did not mentioned software update. Little trick I get boost on the road using my charger plugged in my electric car 😊
Hey Scott, hopefully this all gets sorted out to your satisfaction 🤙
I hope so too, I drop it off tomorrow morning and pick it back up on Friday...we shall see...so Friday, when I pick it up, I'll be having the gopro on 👍
My two week old GS seemed to hiccup on a few starts. Seemed dead but then was able to start
I have had the same problem with a 2021 1250GSA. Dealer advised that I should switch the engine off with the keyless button rather than the kill swsitch or sidestand. Apparently it leaves the engine in the optimum position to start next time. All battereis hate sub-zero temperatures, not just lithium ones.
Lithium batteries are a little tricky, if its going to be properly cold I take it out and put it on the trickle charger INSIDE not even in the garage. So far Ive never had an issue with that method. But my battery is in a dirt bike so its easy to remove I know some bikes can be a pain.
My BMW R850R from 2001 starts with a Gel Accu. Was stil fore 8 weeks in the wether. 3 starts. Not the First one. Love The Technologie ❤
Had the same problem with mine in the uk , tried to say it was the tracker. After having it for a few weeks it came back the lithium battery was at fault. It was under warranty, but I asked it to be replaced with an ordinary battery no trouble since 2020 1250 gsa .
Connect CTEK Connect Eylet to the battery and leave it connected for the whole winter season 😊
"I have heard"...🙄...that lithium batteries need to warm up a bit. They need to be under some load for a few seconds to really get going. Maybe that's why it starts on the second or third attempt. "I've been told" , that you should turn the lights on for a few seconds before pressing start...🤔
Just saying....but I ride an Africa Twin....so "I have nothing to prove"...🥳😊
Lol..I saw what you did there..
Over here in the Uk here in England some new 1300 ones have caught fire and burned all the starter relay out not good if your riding and it happens
I was told a long time ago that in cold weather you have to stir a lithium battery pressthe starter and then turn off twice maybe 3 times . Looks as if that might be the case with yours ,I have a Aprilia with a lithium battery and some times I have to start it like your Beemer.
Even with my 1250 GSA the traditional battery dies if the bike is not ridden for just a month of cold winter while the anti-theft alarm is on and the navigation is mounted. I had to buy the original BMW Motorrad Battery Charger (the one with a cube shape) to avoid the winter storage issue.
You need to leave the ignition on for about 30 seconds with a load , headlight or heated grips for the lithium battery to warm up and come up to voltage. Then you will have no issues. You can watch it in real time if you choose my vehicle option on the display. The voltage may start at 11.0 and will come up all the way to 12.6 slowly.
I would expect the bike to show a message about this. Especially with lithium batteries being a new thing on bikes
@@ioandragulescu6063 I have a 2022 s1000rr. I have swapped to an aftermarket lithium for over a year with no issues. The only message you will get is fault in ecu advising you to contact the workshop. It does not say low battery.
@@arnoldtm31 well, that's a bit different. But if a bike is designed from the ground up with a lithium battery, this situation should be taken into account, especially on a top of the line model as the GS. I also have an aftermarket lithium on my "cheapo" V Strom 1050 and had one on my previous 650 and never had an issue but I never leave my bike outside so ... yeah.
Can the headlight or heated grips be turned on before the engine is running.
@@chrishart8548 If the temperature is under 10DegC , and the battery is lithium, then yes. It helps the cells to come up in temperature. Don't do it on a lead acid battery. I only have the headlight on for this purpose. Never the heated grips.
I think there may be something to the storage rumor. The completed motorcycles are shipped to dealers with the batteries in a separate box (by law) and are not fully charged. The service tech charges the battery. However, as noted in your manual, lithium batteries will be fine, sitting for up to six months in moderate temperatures, but are NOT fine if they are allowed to drop below a minimal state of charge. That shortens their lives. It may well be that BMW took longer than expected to release the new model and that the initial batch of batteries sat around too long. As for the heated grips and seat: I believe there is a protective feature that does not allow either to turn on if the battery voltage is borderline (similar to every vehicle cutting lights and accessories during cranking).
One more thing: Periodically (once a year or so) remove the battery from the motorcycle and inspect it. For example, can you spin it on its base? If so, it is beginning to swell, which is dangerous, and is due for replacement. Most modern bikes have a circuit constantly in use, “looking” for the key fob transponder. The only way to completely stop battery drain is to disconnect the cables from the terminals.
I'am From a bmw motorrad and trust me, the batteries are in the bikes when we got them. I'm from canada
I know, the modern conveniences etc, but man, there is just way too much in the way of sensitive electronics on modern bikes. I'm an ex-programmer and current system admin and the less I have to do with anything software related, the happier I am. Also, the whole lithium battery craze is just silly, I think. The kilo or two you save, that is sitting directly underneath you is not worth it. I would just get a sealed gel battery. It's more reliable.
I had low battery warnings and strange messages on the TFT" (the engine even died on me at a stop sign )on my 2020 GSA and I finally thought to take the battery out and clean the battery posts mainly and the cable ends till they were "shiny" and that fixed it". Was not the Lithium battery though.
That problem is carried over from the 1250 in all variants ..my gs did it my mates 1250rs still does it .. I swear it's a problem with the shift cam system
Bullshit
I have 1250 GSA 2020
and my battery it’s still original
And I never keep my bike on the charger in winter !!!
The only thing is I have bought the test bike with 1270 kilometers on the clock and 5 year extended warranty.
An also I never buy a bike in the first year of production!!!
That’s why the proper GS means THE ADVENTURE version will only come out this November!!!
This is basic normal gs it’s a girls bike 😂
I have tested one and didn’t like at all .
I’ll keep my 1250 GSA
WITH CARBON SC PROJET it a mean machine 🎉
Ask the dealer on this relay problem. On UA-cam you can find some clips on burned relays! Happy with my '78 R100RS
LOL, my German dealership replaced that before I took delivery of this bike in Nov. 18th 2023. It's a work-a-round and I will need the actual replacement for warranty purposes but what I have in there now will last longer than the bike.
I await your next video, and am very interested in how the dealer responded to this problem.
You and me both!
Still running the original battery on my 2020 R1250RT - I have considered using lithium when this battery is done, but since they seem to last this long time, might just replace it with the same when it finally dies ;)
Lithium is infinitely better. Have them on my s1000rr and 1290 SAS. Just leave them on for at least 30 seconds with the headlight on for them to warm up and the voltage to rise. It will start right up.
I'm still running the original battery on my 2014 F800GS it's over 10 years old now and still works fine. Still not sure about lithium. When it finally goes I'm wondering if I could have half lead acid and half lithium. Just connected together.
@@chrishart8548 They exist: Motobatt do a Hybrid Lithium/AGM battery. Haven't tried it yet but will get one for my GS when I need one I think.
Do you use a battery monitor? I know you have to get one that works with lithium batteries but if you're not riding it every day and using the heated grips and seat a lot it makes sense. I've had an optimate 4 since 2015 which I've used on all 4 of the BMWs I've had since then as a preventative measure on the GSM batteries and all 4 have never had any problem starting. Obviously if you have a duff battery that's a seperate issue but having a battery tender on when not using the bike can only help?
Hopefully it will be resolved.👍
turn on the ignition, then wait about 30-40s then try to start it. Battery needs some time to wake up in cold. ...but 11C not too cold. ;)
Worrying isn't it? I bought a tiger 1200 GT PRO in December 23, A month later I got a fault display on the dash, "Front Position Fault". Apparently a headlight fault. Triumph had the headlight replaced the next day. Does make you worry but I can't fault Triumph for customer care. Hope all goes well with your BMW
TBH I’m not sure it’s the battery as it hasn’t got that flat sound and it spins up ok when it gets the chance, as others have mentioned it seems like the starter solenoid isn’t letting it turn over long enough 🤔
I had the same issue on my 1250 and it was less than 1 year old and was always kept on a trickle charger. Needed a new battery.
Unfortunately Scott you’re not on your own. In the UK the top boxes are being held back as well and all the problems you’ve mentioned are being talked about including oil leaks. I have a GSA and am waiting to see the new model but it’s very disappointing to see so many recalls on a long awaited model from a company of which we all expect high standards.
as well as the panniers now too
Which battery charger do you use ?
Hmm. Finally you got 'something to prove' ?. :)
So you have to hit the starter button 3 or 4 times before it starts? Uhhh, is that not normal? - signed 790 Adventure owner
I had the same problem with my new 1250 gs after 9 months battery packed up , later found out the battery was older than the new bike , after a 4 month battle they agreed to replace it ! Shame on you bmw 🤦♂️
All this tech they keep putting on modern bikes all needs power ,alot of power. And then software updates, never ending cycle of potential never ending niggles , overlay sensitive issues to suck any enjoyment out of your ride..do I need to plan my trip around the dealer network.?
there have been a lot of problems with BMW's recently, don't get me started on an SOS light that won't go out.
I read that BMW is the car manufacturer with the highest margin. Until a few years ago almost all of the components were quality and made in Italy. Now they have cheaper products from other states....
@@moppedbuaontour Many BMW auxiliary components have historically been made in Italy by brands like Magneti Marelli. Mechanical parts are mostly made in Germany and Austria
@@moppedbuaontour BOSCH is also used a lot. It depends on the model and year
lol, i worked in a swiss firm, with the plant in italy, and we made A LOT of electronics/leds/plastic components for BMW and PORSCHE you can't even imagine. World is round ehehehehe @@moppedbuaontour
My HD has an 11 year old lithium ion battery and stays outside all winter, I just started it for the 1st time in 4 months, no trickle charger, no problem, as usual.
Good luck. Batteries are fickle. I had one die on me as I pulled into a French Service Station after many miles on the Motorway. Weird !
same happened to me. Stopped to fill the tank after 5hours ride, battery died and i was left stranded like an idiot with a month old 31.000 euro bike. Jeez.
How ANY company can continually release heaps of shite, and still remain in business, is truly beyond me. BMW are masters of this.
I like how your wife fact checks motorcycle purchases. Sounds just like mine 😂
The future is going to be built on batteries!
I had a new KTM last year and battery died after 3 months {lead acid}and also had software problems on a model that was around for 5 years ! Kept getting software ECU warnings Needless to say I sold it as KTM seems to not fix problems - I expect software issues in a new model - that is reality, the issue is how BMW responds and compared to KTM it is night and day. Even Harley had some problems with software and battery on pan America and fixed them. I like the latest and expect some issues as long as the brand stands behind the product.
Can anyone tell me why the manufacturer's warranty on Honda motorcycles is 1 year but BMW always has 3 years? Does this have anything to do with quality?
BMW is luxury bike just like their cars and the affluent individuals who buy them new are leasing or intending to trade out for new most likely before warranty expires. BMW knows no one would buy their product without some protection during lease period due to their reputation on reliability and high cost of repair.. BMW customers in many ways are their testbed and the early adopter types wanting the latest and greatest gizmos. Anyone who buys a new BMW motorcycle and faces huge repair bill in year 2 or 3 would probably never buy again.
The Japanese manufacturers are more conservative and fully test and validate their new tech before releasing to market. Thus they are late to introduce tech to the market. Journalists insult them for their methodical approach but would I much rather applaud them. Who really wants to be on a motorcycle trip ruined by such an experience? Joy turned into stress or frustration. BMW makes impressive, cool products but my time, peace of mind, and predictable cost of ownership is waaaay more important than the latest and greatest. From my view tech that is one half generation behind BMW is 95% the experience without the peril or strain on my wallet.
I bet it's not the battery even before hearing the "rumor" but system/software. However, you'll never know since they gonna change both of them. Or will they?? Just put a mark under the battery and check if it's really replaced. It's easy to blame external components instead of accepting their faults for BMW
yap, If it is as everyone has analyzed, this problem is caused by the characteristics of lithium batteries. Then replacing another lithium battery won't help. I prefer that this is a problem of system design, or software, or circuit.
Be sure to excite/load-up the battery for 3 minutes with lights and ignition on. Lithium isn't fickle just odd.
If the battery is "defective" why does is start suddenly with what sounds like "full power"? And what is defective battery? Is it weak battery or what? Battery is a very simple thing.
Hi , I've had 6 GS's/GS.A.s since 2006 as well as a K1600 and XR1000 and had issues with every one!!,I should say the first edition of each one! the reason I will NEVER buy a first Gen BMW again!!
Using a lithium battery in the cold is just a recipe for this issue. The quest for less weight has a price.
Looks like you are victim of BMW poor batteries policy my friend, lithium or not. I bought a brand new R1250RT, Jul 2023, non lithium battery. Put togheter nearly 7000kms the first month, than while on holiday in August, i stopped to a gas station. Turned off the bike (keyless) opened the tank cap, filled the tank, closed the cap and started the bike. Or at least tried to, as the battery was dead. Barely the current to turn on the top case inner led. So i was left stranded and had to call a flatbed truck, that took my bike to a dealer the next day (battery obviously picked a sunday to fail on me) and had to call a taxi for the 150km tripo back to home ($$$). Battery replaced, and no issue since that, BUT cmon, 31.000 euros bike with low quality battery on it, and i'm not the only one with this same exact issue. BMW can't keep on cheaping out on batteries over top tier bike like these, jeez.
First world, high tech problems. Amazing, considering the money you spent.
That's it, my next bike will be a Honda.
That 's the reason I will never buy again,even if they are good bikes,a BMW ,for premium price I expect premium reliability,so I now buy Honda!
good luke with early produced model,it takes one or 2 years to solve the hardware and software problems!imagine yourself driving on Ruta 40 in Patagonia......
He'd still get it started. 🤷♂️
VFR800, 24 years old, battery 17 years old (yes really), just failed 😉 and I think I brought it on by not keeping it on the optimate (batt tender) In fairness a battery can fail even when new.... But as I totally hate the 1300gs for being a small ugly bike thats over-rated and overpriced.... I blame the bike in this case 😮
Lithium battery is a funny thing.
this is software issues not a battery i think..
Guzzi Stelvio has a smaller screen and a bigger battery😃😭
As much packed with Tech as much more points of failure, yeah I was in this rabbit hole until I woke up, and yours wallet will appreciate too.
Ah BMW the standard bearer of engineering / reality is crap reliability. If a Japanese bike did this the owners would be going mental. God knows why German stuff gets a free pass - ridiculous.
I blame the purchasers...
i heard.. that you need to pay your wife more :D
Buy Japanese🤷🏻♂️