2002 r1150rt engine smoke?

[zaphod]

I am looking at a 2002 R1150RT with about 28k miles. I noticed when the dealer started it up it didn't catch on the first try and when it did catch it blew bluish smoke for about 10 seconds then stopped. The dealer stated that it had been sitting on the stand for several weeks since it was last fired up which he said causes oil to pool and that was the cause of the smoke. I don't know anything about the boxer engine so I was hoping someone could tell me if this is realistic or if it's a lode of BS and there might be a maintanance issue? I should say that I rode the bike for 20 minutes after and there was no more smoke, idle was a little rougher than I'm used to but I've never had a twin. I really like this bike and one of the draws of BMW is the reliablility of the boxer, I'm just worried I might be buying a lemon. All insight will be apprciated.

Thanks,

Alex

[boxermania]

BMW boxers have sturdy and long lasting engines. The oil level is critical (oil sight glass located on the left side, just under and ahead of the left cylinder) oil should be kept halfway on the window.

If the bike is kept on the side stand and the oil level is higher than mid window it is not uncommon for some of the oil to get past the oil rings and into the combustion chamber, creating what you experienced during start-up.

Normaly, after a ride, place the bike on the sidestand for about 5 minutes to allow the oil to drain from the oil coolers (mounted on the side of the tank) and then place the bike on the center stand. Check the oil level after 5 minutes.....mid window please. Never allow for oil not to be seen on the window, or you might experience expensive repairs.

If the dealer selling the bike is BMW, request a copy of any recalls, if it is also the servicing dealer, ask for the service records.

Good luck.

[zaphod]

Great! That's what I was hoping to hear. Just put a deposit on the bike, with luck I'll have it for the long weekend.

Thanks for your help.

Alex