BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

Hi All.  Supposed to be off for a weekend in the Lake District today but my 2011 RT1200RT doesn't want to co-operate.  When I switch the ignition on, the dash lights up, neutral indicator lights up and the display shows current mileage.  But that's it.  It doesn't then go on to do what the handbook describes as the "Pre-Ride Check" and then the ABS self diagnosis.


I washed the bike before I tried to start it but just used my usual hosing technique, no power washer and not forcing water anywhere that I think electronics might be lurking. 


I've tried disconnecting the battery for a short period but no change.


I do have At Home breakdown cover but I'm pretty sure all they will be able to do is load her up and take her to a dealer for diagnostics so was hoping there might be some way I can get her started on the driveway.


Any help gratefully accepted.

Sounds like your starter button has failed.  Had it on a 1600, twice.  Everything lights up but nothing happens when you press the button.  It's a quick fix if the dealer has the switch..  If you have extended warranty they are covered.

dsajones wrote:Any help gratefully accepted.

Have experienced the same problem with a 2012 RT, bike failed to start. We were in Germany, a Sunday overnight stay was arranged, before the recovery guy turned up the next morning. Tried the bike early on Monday morning and it started, rode to Kassel and had the switch changed.

Try and drive out any moisture from the switch and/or use some electrical contact cleaner, might just work.

If the bike was purchased less than a year ago from a BMW dealer, it should have a 1 or 2 year used bike warranty.

Hi all,
R1200RT 2007
I am having same problem.. it is not performing any of pre-ride checks. And none of the right switch buttons working (indicator heat grips etc.) Left hand all OK.
Checked connector and it looks ok.
Is it possible that ABS pump fault not letting pre-ride checks?
Any ideas?

I have a 2010 R1200RT. As mentioned above the dash lights up but only with N light. Nothing else ! Battery is fully charged and new as the local BMW dealer decided this was the problem after having the bike for 5 weeks!
Has worked for a couple of rides then failed. Have had it taken to a non BMW garage in the hope they can do better. Any suggestions?

I have the same problem now with my R1200rt 2011 modell. No pre start check, only Neutral light in upper display, nothing happens when pressing start knob. Anyone who can hjelp?

It seems to me that the kill switch is not working properly. worth trying a blast of wd40.

I can try that, but what about all the missing lights and the missing pre ride check in the upper display?

I think the pre-ride check only happens if the kill switch is on. But I'll check on mine and let you know.

aager wrote: ↑Mon May 06, 2024 10:00 pm I can try that, but what about all the missing lights and the missing pre ride check in the upper display?

Yeap like I said, check your kill switch for malfunction.

Normal start:


Start with kill switch:

Thanks Quico, kill switch doesn’t make connection when it is in «ride» mode. Problem fixed with new one.