Experienced German electrics for the first time

michaelthepsycho · 04-30-2011, 10:25 PM

I feel so bad that my experience has exactly reinforced the stereotype of European cars being unreliable. Two weeks ago my adaptive headlight system failed. It's been in the shop for a week (quite incompetent) because they kept failing at the software upload to re-sync the system with the ECU. The SA says there's some underlying problem with the ECU itself which is causing the AHL software to constantly freeze mid-flash. All the while I have no means of transportation. G_G ... Lucky I don't have obligations that I have to attend to...

On a side note:
I'm about to switch over to riding as my only mode of commuting; what are the chances of this happening on bikes? I've only inquired about the European marques while the Japanese brands have a good reputation for reliability (mirroring the automotive side). Any bike owners as well? I know quite a few folks on here have Ducatis and Triumphs.

Amlethae · 04-30-2011, 10:55 PM

I've got two recent Ducati's (2008 & 2010) with no electrical issues what so ever. I've even installed GPS's and alarm systems on them, no problems.

galahad05 · 04-30-2011, 11:47 PM

You want reliability, get a CBR1000RR.

As a bonus, it's a freaking performance monster.

Coolieman1220 · 04-30-2011, 11:52 PM

Looking at buying a CBR600rr

I want a bike, BAD

galahad05 · 05-01-2011, 12:03 AM

I personally have a 2010 Z1000. In the bike world, call it...a mid-pack literbike performer.
It's a Euro-style sport naked with upright seating and handlebars instead of clip-ons. Far more comfortable for any extended riding (or commuting).

Mid-pack in this class = 0-60 is ~2.5 seconds, quarter mile in 10.5 seconds. Brakes strong enough to yank the bike down from 160 mph runs, and easily stand it on its nose.

Almost any non-cruiser bike though, will make some of the most badass cars feel tame by comparison; you almost can't go wrong.

ZoomZoom · 05-01-2011, 12:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by galahad05

You want reliability, get a ZX10r.

As a bonus, it's a freaking performance monster.

freshwhite335 · 05-01-2011, 12:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by michaelthepsycho

All the while I have no means of transportation

your dealer doesn't provide loaners?

michaelthepsycho · 05-01-2011, 01:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Amlethae

I've got two recent Ducati's (2008 & 2010) with no electrical issues what so ever. I've even installed GPS's and alarm systems on them, no problems.

How about any engine or suspension problems?

Quote:

Originally Posted by freshwhite335

your dealer doesn't provide loaners?

Man... Their service department is packed (I guess a lot of BMWs are broken down) so I'm on the waiting list for loaners. They provided shuttle service back, though.

galahad05 · 05-01-2011, 01:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by michaelthepsycho

How about any engine or suspension problems?

Man... Their service department is packed (I guess a lot of BMWs are broken down) so I'm on the waiting list for loaners. They provided shuttle service back, though.

If you're dead set on a Eurobike, then definitely look at the BMW S1000RR.
Either that, or look at the lusty Italian Aprilia Tuono V4R.

Aprilia

BMW

gos · 05-01-2011, 04:28 AM

Buying a litrebike for the "reliability" is insane, when every manufacturer has smaller bikes for a fraction of the cost that will likely be much more reliable because they're not as race-ready. A small Honda makes a lot of sense, like their CB600 or new CBR250.

If you want something euro and easy on the wallet, something like a late-nineties BMW F650 would be a good way to go. Easy to work on and they'll get you 70-80mpg.

MacR6 · 05-01-2011, 09:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gos

Buying a litrebike for the "reliability" is insane, when every manufacturer has smaller bikes for a fraction of the cost that will likely be much more reliable because they're not as race-ready. A small Honda makes a lot of sense, like their CB600 or new CBR250.

If you want something euro and easy on the wallet, something like a late-nineties BMW F650 would be a good way to go. Easy to work on and they'll get you 70-80mpg.

Yeah the 600s are just as quick and nimble. They just aren't as fast over 160, which you won't realistically hit all too often. Plus their like 3 to 4 grand cheaper.

mike-y · 05-01-2011, 12:50 PM

lol, it appears this guy has never really ridden before, and all you guys are telling him to go out and get a liter bike. That's probably good advice for someone who wants a quick trip to the emergency room haha.

The OP needs to check out smaller, slightly used jap bikes. namely something like an SV650, which is comfortable and one of the easier bikes to learn on.

http://www.bestbeginnermotorcycles.c...i-sv650-review

WWONG · 05-01-2011, 01:34 PM

OP: Pretty sure I saw a thread that you made where you got in a wreck in the front end. I'm assuming your headlights were replaced, so I don't think you could technically blame the car. Have a new & stock car in mint condition and when something fails then, then your complaint is valid. In the meantime, your complaint is filed under "general unsatisfied customer who blames the world"

jayy178 · 05-01-2011, 02:37 PM

i got a 600RR and previously had a gsx-r and R6. Japanese bikes are completely reliable. I haven't had a single issue with them.

michaelthepsycho · 05-01-2011, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by galahad05

If you're dead set on a Eurobike, then definitely look at the BMW S1000RR.
Either that, or look at the lusty Italian Aprilia Tuono V4R.

I ain't getting a liter-bike lol... Insurance will be MURDEROUS

Quote:

Originally Posted by gos

Buying a litrebike for the "reliability" is insane, when every manufacturer has smaller bikes for a fraction of the cost that will likely be much more reliable because they're not as race-ready. A small Honda makes a lot of sense, like their CB600 or new CBR250.

If you want something euro and easy on the wallet, something like a late-nineties BMW F650 would be a good way to go. Easy to work on and they'll get you 70-80mpg.

I can only live with the styling of faired bikes and naked bikes. No cruisers / motocross / supermoto look-alikes

Quote:

Originally Posted by MacR6

Yeah the 600s are just as quick and nimble. They just aren't as fast over 160, which you won't realistically hit all too often. Plus their like 3 to 4 grand cheaper.

Yep, I'm going to get a middleweight.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike-y

lol, it appears this guy has never really ridden before, and all you guys are telling him to go out and get a liter bike. That's probably good advice for someone who wants a quick trip to the emergency room haha.

The OP needs to check out smaller, slightly used jap bikes. namely something like an SV650, which is comfortable and one of the easier bikes to learn on.

http://www.bestbeginnermotorcycles.c...i-sv650-review

I ride 250s overseas. Not here, though.

Quote:

Originally Posted by WWONG

OP: Pretty sure I saw a thread that you made where you got in a wreck in the front end. I'm assuming your headlights were replaced, so I don't think you could technically blame the car. Have a new & stock car in mint condition and when something fails then, then your complaint is valid. In the meantime, your complaint is filed under "general unsatisfied customer who blames the world"

Lol... Where is this coming from??? Please point me to this thread. I've never gotten into an accident in this car, ever.

galahad05 · 05-01-2011, 03:09 PM

VFR800 Interceptor.

Sporty, but a true sport tourer.

WWONG · 05-01-2011, 03:53 PM

Disregard what I said, I thought it was you with http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=413926 . His last avatar looked like yours. CARRY ON.

Jns2001 · 05-01-2011, 06:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Coolieman1220

Looking at buying a CBR600rr

I want a bike, BAD

I have a 2008 CBR600RR, love the bike.

Slops · 05-01-2011, 07:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Coolieman1220

Looking at buying a CBR600rr

I want a bike, BAD

You still want one?

BMWs4ever · 05-01-2011, 07:23 PM

Sorry to say this but that's why I never went with the adapative headlight option. I did not want to deal with the issues if it broke down.

michaelthepsycho · 05-02-2011, 03:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMWs4ever

Sorry to say this but that's why I never went with the adapative headlight option. I did not want to deal with the issues if it broke down.

The HID is working fine; just no swiveling. It's still bright as hell but no cornering illumination.

freshwhite335 · 05-02-2011, 03:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by michaelthepsycho

Man... Their service department is packed (I guess a lot of BMWs are broken down) so I'm on the waiting list for loaners. They provided shuttle service back, though.

That's dumb. BMW of Bev Hills gives you a car from Enterprise if they run out of loaners.

04-30-2011, 10:25 PM	#1
michaelthepsycho Lieutenant Colonel 76 Rep 1,644 Posts Drives: 11 Montego Blue E90 335i Step Join Date: May 2009 Location: CA iTrader: (4)	Experienced German electrics for the first time I feel so bad that my experience has exactly reinforced the stereotype of European cars being unreliable. Two weeks ago my adaptive headlight system failed. It's been in the shop for a week (quite incompetent) because they kept failing at the software upload to re-sync the system with the ECU. The SA says there's some underlying problem with the ECU itself which is causing the AHL software to constantly freeze mid-flash. All the while I have no means of transportation. G_G ... Lucky I don't have obligations that I have to attend to... On a side note: I'm about to switch over to riding as my only mode of commuting; what are the chances of this happening on bikes? I've only inquired about the European marques while the Japanese brands have a good reputation for reliability (mirroring the automotive side). Any bike owners as well? I know quite a few folks on here have Ducatis and Triumphs. __________________ Former car 2011 BMW 335i Step - Montego Blue / Chestnut Brown Last edited by michaelthepsycho; 05-01-2011 at 01:45 AM..
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04-30-2011, 10:55 PM	#2
Amlethae Private First Class 13 Rep 169 Posts Drives: 2011 335ix M-Sport Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Clifton, NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 335xi [0.00]	I've got two recent Ducati's (2008 & 2010) with no electrical issues what so ever. I've even installed GPS's and alarm systems on them, no problems. __________________ *2011 335xi E90 N55 6MT Performance Edition* Other rides: Ducati StreetFighter 848 \| Ducati Monster 696 \| Porsche Spyder 550A (Replica)
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04-30-2011, 11:47 PM	#3
galahad05 Brigadier General 158 Rep 3,158 Posts Drives: '07 335i e90 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (0)	You want reliability, get a CBR1000RR. As a bonus, it's a freaking performance monster. __________________ Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest. --Mark Twain
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04-30-2011, 11:52 PM	#4
Coolieman1220 Banned 73 Rep 1,770 Posts Drives: 2010 335d Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: New York City iTrader: (0)	Looking at buying a CBR600rr I want a bike, BAD
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05-01-2011, 12:03 AM	#5
galahad05 Brigadier General 158 Rep 3,158 Posts Drives: '07 335i e90 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (0)	I personally have a 2010 Z1000. In the bike world, call it...a mid-pack literbike performer. It's a Euro-style sport naked with upright seating and handlebars instead of clip-ons. Far more comfortable for any extended riding (or commuting). Mid-pack in this class = 0-60 is ~2.5 seconds, quarter mile in 10.5 seconds. Brakes strong enough to yank the bike down from 160 mph runs, and easily stand it on its nose. Almost any non-cruiser bike though, will make some of the most badass cars feel tame by comparison; you almost can't go wrong. __________________ Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest. --Mark Twain
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05-01-2011, 04:28 AM	#10
gos Captain 27 Rep 959 Posts Drives: E90 330xi Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Colorado iTrader: (0)	Buying a litrebike for the "reliability" is insane, when every manufacturer has smaller bikes for a fraction of the cost that will likely be much more reliable because they're not as race-ready. A small Honda makes a lot of sense, like their CB600 or new CBR250. If you want something euro and easy on the wallet, something like a late-nineties BMW F650 would be a good way to go. Easy to work on and they'll get you 70-80mpg. __________________ -- 330xi SG/Terra/Burl -- ZPP, ZSP, ZCW, CA, Sirius, PDC
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05-01-2011, 12:50 PM	#12
mike-y just another bmw douche bag 195 Rep 3,640 Posts Drives: 1.9L of fury Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Los Angeles, CA iTrader: (4)	lol, it appears this guy has never really ridden before, and all you guys are telling him to go out and get a liter bike. That's probably good advice for someone who wants a quick trip to the emergency room haha. The OP needs to check out smaller, slightly used jap bikes. namely something like an SV650, which is comfortable and one of the easier bikes to learn on. http://www.bestbeginnermotorcycles.c...i-sv650-review
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05-01-2011, 01:34 PM	#13
WWONG Banned 109 Rep 1,830 Posts Drives: 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d Join Date: May 2010 Location: Houston, TX iTrader: (14)	OP: Pretty sure I saw a thread that you made where you got in a wreck in the front end. I'm assuming your headlights were replaced, so I don't think you could technically blame the car. Have a new & stock car in mint condition and when something fails then, then your complaint is valid. In the meantime, your complaint is filed under "general unsatisfied customer who blames the world"
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05-01-2011, 02:37 PM	#14
jayy178 Second Lieutenant 25 Rep 241 Posts Drives: 2007 335i Coupe / 2014 535i Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (7)	i got a 600RR and previously had a gsx-r and R6. Japanese bikes are completely reliable. I haven't had a single issue with them. __________________ 2003 E46 323i (former) 2007 E92 335i M-Sport (former) 2014 F10 535i M-Sport (former) 2016 F30 328i M-Sport 2016 F15 X5 x35i M-Sport
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05-01-2011, 03:09 PM	#16
galahad05 Brigadier General 158 Rep 3,158 Posts Drives: '07 335i e90 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (0)	VFR800 Interceptor. Sporty, but a true sport tourer. __________________ Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest. --Mark Twain
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05-01-2011, 03:53 PM	#17
WWONG Banned 109 Rep 1,830 Posts Drives: 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d Join Date: May 2010 Location: Houston, TX iTrader: (14)	Disregard what I said, I thought it was you with http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=413926 . His last avatar looked like yours. CARRY ON.
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05-01-2011, 07:23 PM	#20
BMWs4ever Lieutenant 42 Rep 403 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 328i Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Toronto, Ontario iTrader: (0) Garage List 2001.5 Passat GLX V6 [10.00] 2007 328i [10.00]	Sorry to say this but that's why I never went with the adapative headlight option. I did not want to deal with the issues if it broke down.
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