R1200GS Maintenance and Repair
 

I plan on travelling from Sao Paulo to California by motorcycle next year. I have an R1200GS. I'd feel a lot more comfortable if I had a better understanding of the bike so I could carry out any necessary diagnosis and possibly repair when things go wrong.

Anybody know if anyone in North or South America runs short courses on maintenance/repair for this bike?

R1200 GS - how does it work
 

I dont know where to start - bit klike asking how a piece of string is? I assume you know the 4stroke engine theory. With that you can go the A&S website and look at the exploded parts microfische and you will see all the parts etc. You can then get an idea of what does what, where it is and the like. Next you should learn basic BMW maintenance - peek over someones shoulder and pester you local workshop that does BMs. Bribe them with beer and magazines of the girlie kind and you will be thier best friend. Ask riders in conversation what if's and you will learn quickly.:thumbup1:

Have you tried:-
 

R1200GS.info
There is a chap called Jim Von Baden that does a maintenance DVD. You will find his posts on the site above or on the Advrider site.

I hope this helps
Safe riding
Mike