Dear All
Im in Bolivia heading North´and have just hit a pothole the size of a swimming pool.
I knew i had done damage but was not sure were. Then the oil started Pissing out of the front left shock. Bingo
1st Q´s Does anyone know if i can (should) continue to ride before fixing.
2) any ideas where. I am in Cusco in a day.
3) How in God´s name do you fix it anyway, and what has happened.
Sounds like i should now more about bikes.

Any help whould be much appreciated

Gareth

For help in Cusco, contact the Cusco HU Community - see Community links on left.

For starters, on an 1150 that's not a shock, the shock is the thing in the middle with a spring round it. What you're calling the shock is actually only the fork leg. BMW R11xx series bikes front suspension is different from all the rest of the motorcycling world.

Yes, you can ride it even though it's leaking. When it STOPS leaking it's dry, and that's not good for long life - so get some oil in it to keep it lubed. If you can put up with the leak, you can ride it indefinitely.

All that's probably wrong is that the seal has blown. NOT a big deal to replace. You may be able to find a generic replacement for it at a bearing and seal shop. Take it out, and there is a series of numbers - that's the size - the bearing shop may be able to come close enough. OR order it from a BMW shop. Motobins.co.uk in the UK is excellent and fast.

A little knowledge goes a long way. Watch any mechanic that works on your bike closely - ask questions - learn. And be prepared to pay more for the LESSONS as you are slowing him down and losing him money. And be aware that there are people that call themselves mechanics that are closely related to gorillas with hammers...

best of luck,

__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

Just took eveything you said on. Visited a machanic who took the seal out and said he had a generic in Cusco. All sorted, i hope. Jeff is also a top bloke and has pointed us to some great spots.
Thanks again Grant,

Best

Gareth

You're welcome - good to hear you're sorted! There's always a way...

__________________
Grant Johnson
Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------
Inspiring, Informing and Connecting travellers since 1997!
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

Hi guys,
I am new to the forum, but is seems like a wealth of information.
I am currently travelling through Ethiopia and experience the same problem of a blown oil seal.

Does anyone know what the dimensions of the seal is perhaps. Inner, outer and thickness. (I dont want to take it apart if I wont be able to get a seal. Then I'll rather order one and continue riding in the meantime.)

Do you know what oil to put in. Ie SAE W5, or W10?

Thanks,
Danie in Africa.