R1200GS will not start unless handlebars are turned

dmaust01 · Jan 24, 2023

My R1200GS-ADV (2007) will not start unless the handlebars are turned. Initially, it would only start with the handlebars turned to the right and would run fine once it started. I removed the tank, etc. to look for a broken wire and could not find one. I reassembled the bike and now it will not start unless the handlebars are turned to the left. Just like before, it will fun fine once started and will start if I turn the ignition on and turn the handlebars to the other side with the ignition left on.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to proceed from here? Thanks.

lkraus · Jan 24, 2023

That era bike had quite a few problems with wires breaking inside the sheath because the factory over-tightened the cable ties. You might try tracing the wires from the starter button. One by one, cut the cable ties as you go and wiggle or massage the wires in that area while trying to start the bike. The broken ends will probably make at least temporary contact and you will know where the wire needs to be spliced. Then check any remaining ties for tightness, they should be slightly snug but the wire should be able to slide a little bit. Over-tight concentrates stress at a single point.

dmaust01 · Jan 25, 2023

lkraus said:
That era bike had quite a few problems with wires breaking inside the sheath because the factory over-tightened the cable ties. You might try tracing the wires from the starter button. One by one, cut the cable ties as you go and wiggle or massage the wires in that area while trying to start the bike. The broken ends will probably make at least temporary contact and you will know where the wire needs to be spliced. Then check any remaining ties for tightness, they should be slightly snug but the wire should be able to slide a little bit. Over-tight concentrates stress at a single point.

Thanks for your suggestions.

pglaves · Jan 25, 2023

Mark,

Look for the wire tie closest to the steering head. Remove that wire tie and wiggle the wiring bundle right at that location. If this changes things then carefully slit the outer sheath and wiggle the individual wires until you find the one that is broken.

I have had this issue on both my R1150R and my F650 Dakar. Always on a trip too.

dmaust01 · Jan 26, 2023

PGlaves said:
Mark,

Look for the wire tie closest to the steering head. Remove that wire tie and wiggle the wiring bundle right at that location. If this changes things then carefully slit the outer sheath and wiggle the individual wires until you find the one that is broken.

I have had this issue on both my R1150R and my F650 Dakar. Always on a trip too.

Thank Paul...I hope all is well with you and Voni.

59163 · Jan 26, 2023

Mark,

Just as the others stated it's a broken wire. Had the same problem on my '05 GS and it was a broken wire by the steering head.

Good luck you'll find it.

Jiggs

dmaust01 · Jan 27, 2023

59163 said:
Mark,

Just as the others stated it's a broken wire. Had the same problem on my '05 GS and it was a broken wire by the steering head.

Good luck you'll find it.

Jiggs

Thanks Jiggs...it seems to be more common than I initially thought.
Mark

R1200GS will not start unless handlebars are turned

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