2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs Safety Report

2020 BMW R 1250 GS: Low owner complaints, but significant recall history focused on braking and powertrain issues.

8Complaints

6Recalls

70/100Reliability Score

Most reported components: Service Brakes (7)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs

The 2020 BMW R 1250 GS presents a mixed safety picture, characterized by a low number of overall complaints but a significant recall history, particularly concerning braking systems. With only 8 total NHTSA complaints, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, the vehicle appears to have a relatively low incidence of severe safety events based on owner reports. However, the high number of recalls, totaling 6, indicates proactive identification and addressing of potential safety defects by the manufacturer. A notable pattern in both complaints and recalls revolves around the braking system, with 'SERVICE BRAKES' and 'SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC' accounting for all 8 complaints.

The recall history strongly corroborates the complaint data, with multiple recalls directly addressing brake-related issues. These include recalls for leaking front brake calipers (NHTSA Campaign 20V476000), improper brake system maintenance affecting performance (NHTSA Campaign 20V475000 and 20V477000), and issues with accessory brake fluid reservoir covers. Beyond brakes, recalls also cover potential gearbox input shaft damage (NHTSA Campaign 23V024000), a damaged final drive pivot pin (NHTSA Campaign 20V478000), and flashing brake lights (NHTSA Campaign 20V479000). While NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for this motorcycle, the comprehensive recall actions suggest BMW is actively working to mitigate identified risks. The low complaint volume, despite the numerous recalls, might indicate that these issues are either not widespread or are being effectively addressed through recall campaigns.

Common complaint patterns highlight issues with both front and rear brakes. Owners report rear brake pedal softness and ineffectiveness, even after multiple bleeding attempts, rendering the rear brake 'all but useless' in some cases. Front brake calipers are also frequently cited for leaking brake fluid, with visible drips and sweating, leading to concerns about reduced brake performance. These issues directly align with the details of NHTSA recall campaigns 20V476000 and 20V475000, indicating a systemic problem with the braking components. The presence of these issues in both owner complaints and manufacturer recalls underscores the importance of ensuring all recall remedies have been performed.

Reliability Score

The 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs receives a reliability score of 70 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

Known Issues for the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs:

Issue	Severity	Frequency	Typical Mileage
Rear Brake Ineffectiveness Rear brake pedal becomes soft and ineffective, failing to stop the motorcycle, even after multiple bleeding attempts. This issue also affects hill hold functionality.	High	Occasional	unknown miles
Front Brake Caliper Leaks Front brake calipers leak brake fluid, visible as drips on the wheel rim or sweating at the caliper seam, potentially reducing brake fluid volume and performance.	High	Occasional	unknown miles
Gearbox Input Shaft Damage Under certain engine operating conditions, the gearbox input shaft may become damaged, potentially leading to a blocked rear wheel and increased crash risk (NHTSA Campaign 23V024000).	High	Rare	unknown miles
Final Drive Pivot Pin Damage The pivot pin connecting the final drive to the swing arm may be damaged, reducing stability and control and increasing crash risk (NHTSA Campaign 20V478000).	High	Rare	unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs:

Service Brakes 87% of complaints

Owners report issues with both front and rear brakes, including soft rear brake pedals, ineffective rear braking, and leaking front brake calipers. This aligns with multiple brake-related recalls.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 12% of complaints

Specific complaints and recalls point to hydraulic system issues, such as fluid leaks from calipers and problems related to brake fluid maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs

Is the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS has a low number of owner complaints (8 total, 0 crashes/injuries/deaths), suggesting a generally safe operational record from an owner perspective. However, it has been subject to 6 safety recalls, many addressing critical components like brakes and powertrain, indicating potential safety risks identified and addressed by the manufacturer. It's crucial to ensure all recall remedies have been completed.

What are common problems with the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS?

The most reported issues for the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS revolve around the braking system, accounting for 100% of the 8 complaints. Specific problems include the rear brake pedal becoming soft and ineffective, and front brake calipers leaking fluid. These issues are also reflected in several NHTSA recalls.

Are there any recalls for the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS?

Yes, the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS has 6 active recalls. These include issues with the gearbox input shaft (23V024000), leaking front brake calipers (20V476000), improper brake system maintenance (20V475000, 20V477000), a damaged final drive pivot pin (20V478000), and flashing brake lights (20V479000). It is highly recommended to check if all applicable recall repairs have been performed.

How does the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS perform in crash tests?

NHTSA does not provide specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2020 BMW R 1250 GS motorcycle. Therefore, there is no direct crash test performance data available from NHTSA for this model.

What should I check before buying a used 2020 BMW R 1250 GS?

Before purchasing a used 2020 BMW R 1250 GS, it is critical to verify that all 6 outstanding safety recalls have been completed. Pay close attention to the braking system, checking for any signs of fluid leaks from the calipers or unusual softness in the brake pedals, as these are common reported issues and recall subjects.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume but extensive recall history, ensure all 6 safety recalls, particularly those related to brakes and powertrain, have been addressed by a BMW dealer before purchasing. Pay close attention to the braking system's performance during a test ride.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Bmw R 1250 Gs. The data includes 8 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.