2007-2008 BMW K1200R, K1200S Recalled for Foaming Brake Fluid

BMW is issuing a recall on the 2007-2008 K1200S, K1200R and K1200R Sport models due to a problem with the front brake hydraulics.

In long rides at high rpms, engine vibrations may cause the full front brake fluid to foam. This would occur at a very narrow rev range and only when the brake fluid reservoir is filled to maximum. Bubbles in the brake fluid may cause air to enter the front brake system, reducing braking performance. According to BMW, it is unlikely the brakes would lose their full power. The rear brakes are not affected by this problem, so a rider should still be able to slow or stop a motorcycle affected by this issue.

According to documents released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, BMW received a report of an accident involving a 2007 K1200R in February 2012. The owner of the K1200R stated the front brake was not working as it should. BMW contacted the owner asking to inspect the motorcycle but the owner refused.

Instead, BMW obtained a similar 2007 K1200R and began an investigation but could not reproduce the problem. In July, the owner of the crashed K1200R allowed BMW to inspect his vehicle. BMW was unable to reproduce the problem until it realized the brake fluid level was an important variable.

BMW tested the crashed motorcycle and other K1200 models and were able to replicate the problem wit a full brake fluid reservoir.

The recall affects 1,365 units of the K1200S, 199 units of the K1200R and 498 units of the K1200R Sport, all from model years 2007 and 2008. BMW dealers will install a screen insert in the brake fluid reservoirs of affected units which would prevent foam from entering the brake cables.

[Source: NHTSA]

By Dennis Chung