Spline Lube, was hello?

[Seth Miller <smail@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I also went for a first ride on my '96 RT this weekend after getting the 
bike back together after a spline lube that evolved into a clutch 
replacement. As reported in my earlier post the transmission input 
splines (at 50k miles) were dry but in good condition. Anyway, in my 
case there was a big, and I mean really big, improvement in shifting as 
a result of the spline lube. I guess whatever degradation that had 
occurred over time was very gradual as before the work I wouldn't have 
said that there was any problem (I went in for the spline lube as a 
'just in case' measure, not to fix any particular issue) but wow, what 
an improvement. Instead of the usual clunk I had grown accustomed to I 
now can barely feel the gear change.

During my ride I was noting to myself how tight the bike felt and how I 
could swear that the drivetrain and suspension actually felt better than 
I remember when the bike was new (OK, the Works shocks may have helped a 
little there). The bike is far from perfect and I have certainly done my 
share of BMW bashing but I do have to credit the overall design with 
really holding up well; the few other bikes I've kept as long as 50k 
miles didn't exactly feel 'showroom fresh'. Guess I'll just put another 
50k on it...

- - Seth



> Date: Mon, 29 Mar 2004 05:59:07 -0500
> From: Bob Hadden <kbhadden@xxxxxxxxxxx>
> Subject: Re: hello?
> 
> Sure has been quiet.  I was out riding, but can offer a report.
> 
> Took the RS out for its' first ride yesterday, after the spline lube.  
> Was a bit concerned about things like fuel leaks or what ever, but the 
> bike ran well and no problems.  I do notice better shifting with the 
> fresh lube, but the bike always shifted well anyway.
> 
> Went to brunch and then over into New York to see the new Max BMW 
> dealer location in Troy, NY.  Just foundation at this point, but plans 
> are to open in May.  This should be the location that gets me the new 
> model RS when they come out.  That I am looking forward to.
> 
> Bob Hadden '98RS

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