The Beemers will go through water up to the air cleaner snorkels under the tank - for a short distance. Plugs under water is no problem IF you have really good plug caps and wires. NGK caps work well.

Over a long distance the bow wave can push water up into the snorkels and they'll drown immediately.

Also, eventually the carbs will get water in through the vent holes. Fortunately the carb bowl is easy to remove and drain the water out on the other side.

The nasty surprise on all airhead beemers since 1980ish with the square black airbox is the little rubber water DRAIN plug at the back bottom of the airbox. If in very good condition it works fine as a one way valve - if old, it perishes and sucks dirt and water in when running, and is just an open hole when pushing. It's a real sod to replace too.

The ignition canister should be checked also to make sure it's gasket seal is in good condition. The rest should be fine, but no guarantees at that depth that water won't be splashing into the coil connectors and all the rest of it under the tank and causing all kinds of trouble. Some water repellent spray on all the wiring can help a lot.

Main thing to remember with all water proofing endeavours on hot engines - the instant a hot engine hits water it tries mightily to suck water in through any and all crevices. You can't perfectly seal it - so make sure the water can get out, and or supply a breather hose to adjust for the tmeperature changes. On the Beemer, it's not a problem - the electronic ignition in the canister almost never drowns out, it's small and well sealed.

I'd pay attention to the above and then ride it, prepared to get off and push fast if needed. But then I really hate pushing bikes.

So should I ask where you are planning on a one metre crossing?

------------------
Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
------------------------

One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

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