Timberwoof’s BMW R1100GS Page

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motorcycle
R1100GS
Hard Parts

Touratech Hard Parts for a BMW R1100GS

Left Side Subframe Mount

The kit consists of two welded steel Touratech parts and a bunch of bolts and spacers. The bolts are a little longer than the originals.
Here’s the original state of the left bottom subframe mount. At the top you can see the end of the bolt that holds the subframe. First you remove the three smaller bolts on the footpeg bracket; then you remove the bolt that holds the subframe. Don’t undo the large bolt in the center. Save the washers on the three smaller bolts.
The footpeg bracket also holds the rear spring preload adjuster and the shifter.
Insert a spacer in the subframe end. My R1100GS is a ’98; I used the 10mm spacers. Earlier models use the 25mm spacers.
The bracket doesn’t fit exactly because of clearance problem with the preload adjuster. The adjuster is held in place with one bolt. Loosen it a bit, swing it out of the way, and it fits …
… almost. To cure this problem, stand next to the back end of the motorcycle and gently lift up on the luggage rack. Then the end of the subframe tube will line up with the holes in the transmission case and the Hard Part.
Put the bracket in pace and bolt it down. The transmission case is aluminum and the steel bolts will only screw in properly if everything is lined up just so. If you feel much resistance or any grinding to screwing down the bolt, stop immediately! If you cross-thread the bolt holes, that’s a Bad Thing. When everything is right, the bolts should go in smoothly, though with some resistance. Tighten the bolts. Don’t forget the bolt that holds the spring preload adjuster.
Here’s what it looks like when you’re finished. Compare the end of the suframe tube with the second picture on this page. Here you can see how it’s supported on both sides.