R1250R Motorcycle Maintenance: The Complete Guide from BMW Motorrad

The BMW R 1250 R is an iconic motorcycle in the BMW Motorrad lineup, combining power and elegance to deliver an unparalleled riding experience. Equipped with the BMW ShiftCam engine, this bike offers exceptional performance on all roads. With outstanding handling and smooth transmission, the R 1250 R impresses motorcycle enthusiasts with its robustness and reliability.

Whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or a daily rider, regular maintenance of your BMW R 1250 R is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to maintaining this motorcycle, covering all essential aspects such as engine oil, braking system, and much more, so your BMW R 1250 R stays in perfect condition. Learn how to maximize the power and safety of your bike with meticulous care and genuine BMW Motorrad products.

The R1250R engine: key points

As the source of all the bike's power, the BMW R 1250 R engine is a component that must be carefully monitored. With several parts to replace and various checkpoints, regular maintenance and servicing are a matter of safety.

Engine oil and oil filter for the R1250R

Engine oil is essential for your engine's proper functioning, and changing it along with the oil filter regularly helps extend its lifespan.

• Every 10,000 km, perform an oil change and replace the oil filter
• Use the correct engine oil: BMW Advantec Ultimate 5W-40

Air filter of the BMW R 1250 R

Ensuring a supply of clean air to your engine and optimal combustion, a clogged air filter can cause power loss or even breakdowns. That’s why its maintenance is important.

• Every 10,000 km, check the condition of the filter
• Every 20,000 km or sooner, replace the filter using the original reference

Spark plugs of the BMW R 1250 R

Just like the air filter, spark plugs play a role in the combustion process and can be the cause of breakdowns. Regular checks help prevent any malfunctions.

• Every 20,000 km and at the first signs of starting difficulty, inspect the spark plugs
• Every 20,000 to 25,000 km, replace the spark plugs using the original BMW Motorrad NGK LMAR8AI-10 reference

Essential BMW R 1250 R maintenance: the braking system

The braking system of your motorcycle is one of the main factors for your safety, which is why it requires special attention to ensure a safe riding experience.

Brake pads R 1250 R

Brake pads wear out quickly, which is why they must be monitored and replaced frequently.

• Every 5,000 km, visually inspect the brake pads for wear indicators and cracks
• Every 10,000 to 20,000 km depending on their condition, replace the pads
• Install original front and rear brake pads to ensure safe braking

Brake discs R1250R

Although subject to less wear, brake discs are just as important to your braking system. They must be in good condition to ensure your safety. To do this:

• Every 10,000 km and with every pad replacement, inspect the discs for signs of wear or deformation
• At the first signs of wear, replace the brake discs
• Use original front and rear brake discs for a perfect fit

Transmission of the BMW R 1250 R: driveshaft and clutch

Like most models of at least 1,200 cc, the BMW R 1250 R is equipped with a shaft drive transmission. While it requires less maintenance compared to a chain, the driveshaft still needs regular servicing.

• Visually inspect the driveshaft and the boots as well as the surrounding seals every 10,000 km.
• Change the transmission oil between 20,000 and 30,000 km.
• Use BMW Motorrad transmission oil to meet the requirements of your motorcycle.

The clutch of your motorcycle is also subject to natural wear, especially as gears are shifted. To maintain a smooth and enjoyable riding experience, it is crucial to replace the clutch kit as soon as unusual noises or slipping occur.

BMW R 1250 R Battery Maintenance

To maintain a constant and sufficient power supply for your BMW R 1250 R, special care must be given to its battery.

• The BMW R 1250 R can be equipped with either an AGM battery or a maintenance-free HP Lightweight battery
• The AGM battery must be recharged approximately every 2 months when voltage drops between 12V and 12.5V, using a battery charger
• Regularly clean the terminals to prevent corrosion
• Replace the battery every 3 to 5 years

Consumables: essential fluids and oils for the BMW R 1250 R

To ensure the proper functioning of your BMW R 1250 R, some oil changes and fluid top-ups are necessary. Here are the consumables to monitor:

• Brake fluid: ensures effective and healthy braking, to be replaced every 1 to 2 years
• Type 2 fork oil: ensures a smooth fork, to be replaced every 2 years
• Radiator coolant: prevents radiator corrosion, to be renewed every 2 to 3 years

It is highly recommended to use genuine BMW Motorrad products for all of these components and to check the quantities specified in the motorcycle manual. By using BMW products, you are using fluids specifically designed for your BMW R 1250 R that will meet its requirements.

BMW R 1250 R Maintenance Summary Table

To simplify the maintenance of your BMW R 1250 R, here is a table summarizing all the tasks to perform and the recommended intervals:

By following this complete maintenance guide for your BMW R 1250 R, you not only ensure the longevity of your motorcycle but also guarantee optimal and safe riding. Paying close attention to essential components such as engine oil, air filter, spark plugs, and braking system ensures that your bike performs at its full potential. Don’t forget that using genuine BMW Motorrad products is crucial to maintaining the exceptional power and handling of your motorcycle. By adhering to the maintenance intervals and regularly checking the different components, you protect your investment and ensure unforgettable riding experiences on every road. For more information and tips, regularly consult the articles and service pages dedicated to the maintenance of your BMW R 1250 R available on our website.