tire change: does abs make any difference?
 

hi there;
bought a F650 GS 2000 about a month ago and had the servicing etc. done in a BMW service (and paid lots of money!). think, there wasn't another thread on the subject, so here is the question: is there anything crucial to be looked at (the ABS mean) while changing the tires? Do I have to go to a authorised service to change a tire,or does it make no difference there being ABS sensors on the wheels? there might be a very easy answer but I am veery newby.
thanks anyway.

Nothing crucial. If they didn't change the gaps of sensors, which is a separate job, then everything is the same as it was, independent from wheel or tyre changes.

Just in case always test the ABS system tho after the wheels have been taken off and then put on: on slippy road surface like gravel (i.e. aside the road if you can't find one) on slow safe speeds (i.e. 10-15km/h) in safe off the traffic conditions temporarely (quickly release too after the wheels are blocked) try to push rear brake to max and then front brake, or together if you're experienced enough. You should hear and feel ABS modulators kicking in and making audible sound. Try with rear brake first, you can easily push it to max on a straight road with slow speeds, even on a tarmac road it's safe. If ABS doesn't let the wheels to block, then all works as supposed to.

Use caution with the front brake tho, only on a straight (presumably slippy, like gravel or a wet road, otherwise the rear end can rise up if the road has a good grip - circa 70+% of the bike's braking power comes from the front wheel!) road and never while turning the bike, especially if you're newbie in this!

Ride safe, Margus

that's the answer...
 

that was the answer I needed. thanks. this was faster than I expected (less than 20 min.) very good, indeed!

I don't remember any ABS equipped bike where you have to work on the sensors when doing tires.
On most motorcycles you will have to work on the brakes to get the wheels off and on. That's why in many countries only a qualified mechanic is (officially) allowed to change motorcycle wheels as opposed to a car where it's a simple bolt off / bolt on.
Get someone to show you how to get the wheels off and on and everything is fine.

The only ABS malfunctions I encountered so far were caused either by a weak battery or by dust and dirt which sometimes accumulates on the sensors. (both on R1100GS)

thanks for your kind advise; Lecap.