BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

I've had my bike a few months now and the only issue is the pre load will not change. Holding the button has zero effect.


I tried applying 12v directly to the 2 pin connector in the motor nothing happens other than sparks on the battery, in addition the resistance across those 2 pins is less than 1ohm, so I'm assuming a blown motor. The error code is esa position sensor error.


However while looking at replacement shocks on ebay I notice they are all, black. My sho k itself is a very distinct yellow. Does that, sound like it has been changed to an ohlins which all seem yellow. In which case would the esa, work on that shock anyway?

TrevorAustin wrote:Does that, sound like it has been changed to an ohlins

Pictures please.

TrevorAustin wrote:I've had my bike a few months now and the only issue is the pre load will not change. Holding the button has zero effect.

Just a thought, the pre load can only be adjusted after starting the engine and whilst the bike is stationary, not on the move.

I might be wrong here - I often am! - but if it is an Ohlins unit (possible, as they usually have a yellow spring around a yellow/gold body)....I don't think they offered ESA/EC for an '09 RT......which might explain why the button does nothing!
Pete

This thread from BMWLT, https://www.bmwlt.com/forums/rt-series/ ... s-esa.html suggests that, "Installing Ohlins will remove ESA function."

if it's any help I have a 2007 R1200RT with ESA, it has Sport, Normal and Comfort modes. Plus modes for one rider/two/rider/luggage etc


I have tried all the different modes, and they do work, as I feel the pre-load adjusting, but I don't notice any difference at all when riding. i think you have to really push it in the corners to notice any handling difference

David. wrote: This thread from BMWLT, https://www.bmwlt.com/forums/rt-series/45201-ohlins-esa.html suggests that, "Installing Ohlins will remove ESA function."

That's what I'm wondering.


And I do know exactly how it should operate, but when stationary my button does not change the esa helmet display, I'm not unsure if it's working, I'm 100% certain it isn't working properly for preload, but the Ohlins might explain it.

I might be asking the obvious here, but have you had a proper look at the unit? Ohlins usually have very obvious stickers on them that say......Ohlins! Does it have a power supply to it?.....lift the seats and have a look.

Pete

Trevor - did you resolve this problem?


Thanks

Has it ever worked since you've owed the motorcycle?

In 2014 I had a problem with a sticking ESA shock on my 2005 RT which I mentioned to the chief technical officer of BMW UK (Motorrad) at a bike show.


He suggested that I have the chassis software updated to the latest release - which included a change to the stroke of the ESA unit to prevent it reaching the previous extremes of travel. 9 years of software updates fixed the problem and the technicians are are able to precisely measure the travel of the shock when it is cycled.


Having got it working, I then sold it to someone who was only ever going to ride solo and therefore would not need the chassis adjustment if it stuck again.


Had I intended to keep the bike, I might have mounted an aftermarket unit.


Hope this helps someone......