BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

Anybody know why my R1200RT will only start while in neutral gear?

With it in gear and the side stand up and the clutch pulled in it should start.

If not then you need a new clutch switch

To add to Michel's post, it could be a bad clutch switch, or the switch/clutch lever may need adjustment.

Have you by chance got grip puppies or similar fitted? You know, the foam tube thingies that add a little comfort and are supposed to reduce vibration fatigue. I had your problem and it turned out the addition of the foam grips stopped the clutch lever being pulled in far enough to engage the bybass switch. I removed them and the problem was solved.
Just a thought.

Yes I do have. I will check that. Thanks.

I had the sane issue the last year. Cleaning and waterproofing the clutch switch resolved the issue.
This autumn is really wet in Ireland, and although my bike is under a cover and I try to ride it on regular basis, the issue reappeared. I'll be getting a new switch at my next service.