Center Stand Problems

[richardstutz]

I just bought a 1998 R1100R (The Aniversary Model) When I push the bike off of the center stand, the stand still drags the ground. I have to pick it up with my toe and give it a boost. I removed the stand and greased it, so it is not a binding problem. I bought two new springs and that didn't do a thing. Has anyone else had this problem? This bike has the spoke wheels. According to the parts fiche the spoke wheels are 18" front and 17" rear and the cast iron wheels are the opposite 17' front and 18' rear. Do both wheels use the same center stand. This thing is kicking my butt. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks
Richard Stutz

[Andy VH]

I ride a 94 R1100RS, and I regularly use the center stand. I also keep the pivots greased. Sometimes the stand comes up, sometimes it doesn't. I'm 5'-6", and when sitting on the bike I can easily raise the centerstand with my left boot, so I guess for me its no problem. But, that's me.

I suppose you could install shorter springs which will increase the lift of the stand. But that also means you'd have to push the stand down to hold it on the pavement when you lift the bike onto the stand. You may also be able to shorten the straight ends of the springs to locate the upper bend about a 1/2" shorter from its current position.

The wheels may be different diameter, but the tires OD really determine the ride height. The tires on both models may have the same OD even though they are on different wheel sizes.

[richardstutz]

That's good to hear. I didn't get an operators manual with the bike and I thought maybe it even mentioned you have to watch the center stand. I've had lots of others bikes, including BMW's and this is the first one that I have had a problem with the center stand. Thanks for your input. Maybe I don't need to chase my tail :)
It's plenty cold here in Illinois, if were out riding I wouldn't worry about it as much.
Thanks
Rich

[Paul_F]

I bought a '98 this summer and had the same problem. The dealership (under warranty) the greased the stand, replaced the springs and replaced the bearings. The problem no longer exists. It was the bearings replacement that solved the problem. ;)

[jerngina]

Out of habit, I give the center stand a kick up after gettin' her on the wheels... 01GS. Just a thing.

[jurgen]

Remove center stand, grease all bearings, replace. Problem fixed.

[JimMoore]

Mine does the same thing. I just give it a kick.

[mark from maine]

You can put me down on the "I just bought a 98 and mine does it too" list.
Mark

[brainfish]

I have never had a center stand on a BMW go up by itself. # brand new one and 45 used ones. You always toe up unless you ride off on the bike and hit something that knocks it up.