On July 6, 2023, the European Commission’s Safety Gate issued a recall alert for certain 2023 BMW R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, R 1250 RT, R 1250 R, and R 1250 RS motorcycles produced between March 2, 2023, and March 16, 2023. The recall is attributed to a manufacturing defect that could cause a fuel leakage on the affected bikes.

This recall is categorized as environmental rather than safety-related since the fuel leakage could pose a risk to the environment and is not compliant with existing regulations. The exact number of affected motorcycles worldwide is unknown, but the recall has been initiated in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Slovenia.

The issue with the affected bikes was a defective part in the pressure sensor of the fuel rail, which was installed during a two-week period. The correct versions of the part were used before and after this period, so motorcycles assembled outside of that time frame are not affected by the recall.

What About These Bikes in the US?

As of July 14, 2023, the only open recall for 2023 BMW R 1250 GS motorcycles listed by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is unrelated to the fuel line issue. It involves the possibility of a gearbox input shaft break on all 2019 through 2023 R 1250 GS bikes. No other investigations are currently ongoing for this bike according to the NHTSA’s database.

What Should You Do with This Information?

BMW Motorrad issued recall notices to registered customers who purchased the affected bikes in Europe. The number of affected bikes is relatively small, with two bikes in France and 25 in Germany confirmed to have the issue.

It’s important to note that affected bikes may have a faint fuel smell due to the leak, but there won’t be visible droplets or significant leakage. The defective part causes a slow and gradual sweating problem that emits the smell. European riders should contact their nearest authorized BMW dealer if they notice any issues.

Non-European riders should also monitor the situation and conduct regular pre-ride inspections. It’s advised to keep any service paperwork related to addressing similar issues with the bike. This will ensure that reimbursement for valid service claims performed before a formal recall is issued becomes available. Stay updated with recall information and ride safely.