Service check: inspection costs

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Service check: inspection costs
Harley-Davidson

motorcycles

Service check: inspection costs

Overview of inspection costs
What does the professional service cost?

Whether for warranty reasons or because you can’t or don’t want to do it yourself – motorcycle inspections are best left to experienced model connoisseurs. MOTORRAD checked the services and costs of authorized workshops.

Thorsten Dentges

03/15/2013

Zen and the art of maintaining a motorcycle – Robert M. Pirsig’s book is probably familiar to literary motorcycle riders. The story: A philosophically swirling BMW biker, just said Mr. Pirsig, is driving through the USA. Whether you like the ham or not is secondary. But the idea of ​​having your machine fully under control in terms of maintenance is always attractive. So also for the author of these lines, who bought a two-valve boxer during his motorcycle adolescence – in the belief that he could do everything himself. A mistake. The shared apartment buddy (semi-professional screwdriver) was mostly working on his machine at the same time. And whenever a wrench flew through the air from the direction of BMW, it shuffled over and said in a soft voice: “Take a look, buddy.” And everything turned out fine.

But what if there is no screw god who is friends around? The desire to have a motorcycle is combined with the need for regular inspections. Around 1200 participants in a survey at www.motorradonline.de on the subject of maintenance and inspections saw it that way. Over half of all respondents stated that they would continue to leave their motorcycle to professional hands even after the warranty period had expired, although there was no longer any obligation to do so. And they do well to do so: if there is insufficient maintenance, there is a risk of expensive consequential damage. Improper valve clearance testing and adjustment can lead to broken-in camshafts, professional workshops have already taken over cases from amateur screwdrivers in which the brake pads were inserted the wrong way round. Driving safety was extremely endangered! Then the brake assistant: Yamaha For example, we recommend activating the hydraulic unit on models with ABS when changing the fluid in order to be able to cleanly remove all residues. If this does not happen, a later failure of this component due to deposits can lead to repair costs of at least 1500 euros. Without electronic diagnostic devices, any malfunctions in the injection system cannot be detected early enough, and there is a risk of engine defects! A wrongly chosen cardan oil can foam and then no longer lubricate optimally: follow-up costs of up to 2000 euros threaten. The first addresses for a trustworthy service are therefore usually authorized workshops. You will receive model-specific information from the manufacturer or importer. In addition, they all have to do with sparse motorcycles of the respective brand. An advantage over free multi-brand screwdrivers, which do a good job, but often have to find out about the model in question first. That costs time, and therefore also money.

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In this MOTORRAD service check, however, you will only find popular machines, the bestsellers of the respective brand. We were interested in: How big are the differences between the brands and models? Does the Italo diva eat your hair off your head during the annual check-up, as you would expect, or does Germany’s bestseller, the GS, do so? Are entry-level bikes really low maintenance, so that getting started with a motorcycle doesn’t lead to financial decline? Driving a Harley – only affordable for lawyers and dentists? To get answers, MOTORRAD delved deep into the world of maintenance schedules. First insight: They still exist, the annoyingly frequent 6000 intervals. However, in this comparison only ask Kawasaki and Suzuki bring their customers to the workshop as soon as possible. Harley wants to see the Sportster every 8,000 kilometers, intervals of 10,000 are now common. Just Ducati and Honda trust their bestsellers even 12,000 kilometers. The new KTM Adventure 1190, not included here, is the first machine with 15000 intervals. The trend is therefore towards longer intervals, while the average annual mileage is towards fewer kilometers. In our sample calculations (see model boxes) we assumed 6000 kilometers per year. Really, I guess. From this point of view, most drivers would probably get there well with 6000 intervals, because every brand – regardless of the mileage – is due for an inspection once a year.

A large telephone search across Germany should provide a better insight into the reality of inspection work and costs of the authorized workshops. For the calculation of the workshop costs, the averaged amount from the requested hourly rates was used. East, west, north, south, city, country – fortunately, the professionals were mostly able to take a look behind the scenes. There were large regional differences in terms of pricing. In metropolitan areas such as Hamburg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart or Munich, the hourly rates are a good tenth higher depending on the brand (Aprilia, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph, Yamaha), at BMW the workshop hour even costs over 20 percent more on average. Specifically: In the Bavarian province, only around 30 kilometers from Munich, you can screw for just under 80 euros, in the city the same work costs 144 euros gross per hour. An extreme difference, but there is another way. For Ducati and Honda, the dealer survey results showed higher average prices in rural than in metropolitan areas. The reasons for this are different. If, for example, a retailer has other, sometimes exclusive brands in their range, they can get by with a correspondingly wealthy clientele with their comparatively higher price level, even if customers who prefer to turn the penny over again stay away. A dealer from Hanover, on the other hand, reported that with the high density of workshops in the city, he had to keep his prices low in order to remain competitive, while brand colleagues in the nearby Weser Uplands could ask for more because there was no competition.


Service check: inspection costs


Bilsk

Screw it yourself or to a specialist workshop?

In some cases, however, different workshop rates apply to multi-brand dealers. A specialist for Kawasaki and Triumph explains that working on a Triumph requires special tools and that overall a greater administrative effort is required than with the Japanese brand that he also represents. While the Munich BMW workshop won the price bird in this comparison – closely followed by another BMW workshop in the Baden-Wurttemberg province, which based its hourly rate of almost 130 euros on the proximity to the even more expensive Switzerland – it looks at the other End of the price structure for some workshops bitterly: Two authorized workshops (KTM, Kawasaki) in Thuringia and on the flat land in Lower Saxony offer inspection services for less than 50 euros per hour, because in areas with poor motorcycle structure, people simply no longer pay. Economically borderline. Also interesting: Are you mainly selling scooters, or is a car dealership affiliated? A small mechanic’s booth with a predominantly young audience naturally costs less than a dealer with car showrooms, a large building complex and service staff, because all of this is happily allocated to the workshop’s hourly rate. Some dealers help customers save money by offering low-cost alternatives to original accessories for wearing parts, provided the quality is comparable. And secretly some workshops revealed that the maintenance plan prescribed by the manufacturer is deliberately not being followed consistently for work that is considered to be overly meticulous in order to be able to issue the customer with a lower invoice. Unfortunately, there are also black sheep among authorized dealers who cup the customer. For example, some invoices from previous inspections were reported on which part costs were calculated up to 40 percent above the recommended retail price, which is non-binding. This is of course unfair because most customers trust the authorized repair shop and hardly ever check the price of every seal or brake pad.

But fairness should also apply to the client. If, for example, the standard time for a “small” inspection at Kawasaki is just 30 minutes, the work is difficult to accomplish. If the customer then tells his entire holiday story when he is accepted, expects a replacement vehicle, but only wants to pay for half an hour, the dealer can swell the comb. The same applies to the allocation of appointments: Anyone who, in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the season, demands that their machine be inspected now and immediately, is not exactly popular. Tip: Many branded workshops offer a special winter service, some with a free pick-up service or discounts – better conditions and no stress thanks to good maintenance planning, which is good for everyone.

Besides, what happened at a Honda doesn’t happen. At the start of the season, the engine ran extremely restlessly – a check showed that mice had nested in the air filter box during the winter break. Note: Regular inspections always help to ensure that your own machine always runs smoothly. So take a look more often, and not just from your buddy.

Aprilia SL 750 Shiver


Service check: inspection costs


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Aprilia SL 750 Shiver.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 750 cm³, injection, 95 hp at 9000 / min, 79 Nm at 7250 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 210 kg, Vmax 210 km / h; New price: 8350 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 35 euros to 400 euros
total cost: approx. 1500 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Bums, the first 1000 inspection comes in with a full over 300 euros, because the valves are already to be checked and adjusted. But then: up to the expensive 20,000 service, spillage is incurred, and the Shiver owner laughs again. Because there are probably many scooter specialists at work, workshop hours are gratifyingly low, often under 70 euros an hour. Parts are cheap.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control
1000 km 3 h 50 min Exchange of engine oil and filter,
Adjust seals, valve clearance
5000 km
(thereafter every 10 000 km)		 10 min Check tires and brake pads
10,000 km 30 min Check air filters, tires, brake pads
20,000 km
5 h 40 min Exchange of engine oil and filter,
Adjust seals, air filter, spark plugs, valve clearance
30,000 km 30 min Check air filters, tires, brake pads
40,000 km 5 h 40 min Exchange of engine oil and filter,
Adjust air filter, spark plugs, valve clearance
Note: Annual inspection (30 min plus oil change).

BMW R 1200 GS


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BMW R 1200 GS.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine, 1170 cm³, injection, 110 hp at 7750 / min, 120 Nm at 6000 / min, ABS optional, cardan; Weight: 229 kg, Vmax 215 km / h; New price: 13,300 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 110 euros to 330 euros
total cost: approx. 1450 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
The standard times are tightly calculated by BMW, which (theoretically) keeps costs low. It is therefore hardly surprising that the authorized workshops charge very high hourly rates in comparison (up to over 140 euros per hour worked). Nevertheless: the inspection costs are at a pleasingly low level. However, with unscheduled repairs it becomes painfully more expensive.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control
1000 km 1 h Apart from general control, no additional work
10,000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of gear / cardan oil, engine oil, filter and sealing rings, brake fluid, check valve clearance, engine synchronization
20,000 km 2 h Exchange of gear / cardan oil, engine oil, engine filter and sealing rings, air filter, spark plugs, check valve clearance, engine synchronization
30,000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of gear / cardan oil,
Engine oil, filters and sealing rings,
Check brake fluid, valve clearance,
Motor synchronization
40,000 km 2 h Exchange of gear and cardan oil, engine oil, filter and sealing rings, air filter, spark plugs, valve clearance adjustment, engine synchronization, V-belt alternator
50,000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of gear / cardan oil,
Engine oil, filters and sealing rings,
Check brake fluid, valve clearance,
Motor synchronization
Note: Individual work with deviating mileage by arrangement with the annual service as required.

Ducati Multistrada 1200


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Ducati Multistrada 1200.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 1198 cm³, injection, 150 HP at 9250 / min, 119 Nm at 7500 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 212 kg, Vmax 245 km / h; New price: 15 250 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 120 euros to 480 euros
total cost: approx. 2100 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
The Multistrada owner has to dig deep into his pocket every 24,000 kilometers because the so-called Desmo service is then on the plan – and adjusting the valves is a demanding screwdriver affair with this model. Depending on the region, the hourly rates are astonishingly low: sometimes less than 60 euros. The part costs, however, are extremely high.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control
1000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of engine oil and filter
12,000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of engine oil and filter, seals, electronic diagnostics / read out fault memory
24,000 km 6 h Replacing engine oil and filters, seals, fork oil, air filters, spark plugs, toothed belts, electronic diagnostics, and adjusting valve clearance
36,000 km
1 h 30 min Exchange of engine oil and filter, seals, valve clearance control, electronic diagnostics / read out fault memory
48,000 km 6 h Exchange of engine oil and filter, seals, fork oil, air filter, spark plugs, toothed belt, electronic diagnostics, set valve clearance
60,000 km 1 h 30 min Exchange of engine oil and filter, seals, valve clearance control, electronic diagnostics / read out fault memory
Note: the annual inspection is calculated at 1 hour 30 minutes regardless of the mileage (plus oil change).

Harley-Davidson XL 1200 Sportster


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Harley-Davidson XL 1200 Sportster.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke 45-degree V-engine, 1202 cm³, injection, 67 HP at 5700 / min, 98 Nm at 3200 / min, no ABS, toothed belt; Weight: 260 kg, Vmax 190 km / h; New price: from 9995 euros

Cost per service: from 220 euros to 415 euros
total cost: approx. 1450 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Because of expensive: Anyone can afford the maintenance of the Sportster, you do not need a lawyer or dentist income. Wear parts are cheap, no chain set is included, and there are no expensive valve clearance adjustments (hydraulic valve lifters). However, the wire spoke check again increases the costs – each inspection takes longer than two hours.

Intervals  working time Most important work besides general control 1600 km 2 h 18 min Exchange of gear lubricants, engine oil and filters, lubricate controls and stands, adjust steering head bearings, retighten wire spokes
8000 km 2 h 12 min Replace engine oil and filter, lubricate controls and stand, retighten wire spokes
16,000 km 2 h 42 min Exchange of gear lubricants, engine oil and filters, lubricate controls and stands, check air filters and replace if necessary, retighten brake fluid, wire spokes
24,000 km 2 h 12 min Replace engine oil and filter, lubricate controls and stand, retighten wire spokes
32,000 km 3 h  Exchange of gear lubricants, engine oil and filters, lubricate controls and stands, adjust steering head bearings, retighten wire spokes
40,000 km 5 h 5 min Replacing engine oil and filters, lubricating controls and stands, revising the brake system with replacing rubber components, tightening wire spokes
Note: Annual inspection regardless of the mileage.

Honda NC 700 X


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Honda NC 700 X.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 670 cm³, injection, 48 hp at 6250 / min, 60 Nm at 4750 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 218 kg, Vmax 160 km / h; New price: 5990 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 85 euros to 360 euros
total cost: approx. 1300 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
This machine is attractive for beginners due to the low purchase price, and the inspection costs should hardly scare off motorcycle novices – manageable technology, long intervals (every 12,000 kilometers) and very fair tariffs for the annual check (on average less than 100 euros) . However, some Honda dealers set quite high hourly rates of 90 euros.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control
1000 km 1 h 6 min Exchange of engine oil and filter 
12,000 km 2 h Replace engine oil and filter, check valve clearance
24,000 km 2 h 18 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, air filter, valve clearance
36,000 km 2 h Replace engine oil and filter, check valve clearance
48,000 km 2 h 18 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, air filter, valve clearance
60,000 km 2 h  Exchange of engine oil and filter, air filter
Note: The annual inspection is calculated at 1 hour 18 minutes regardless of the mileage, brake fluid change every two years, coolant change every three years.

Kawasaki ER-6n


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Kawasaki ER-6n.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 649 cm³, injection, 72 hp at 8500 rpm, 64 Nm at 7000 rpm, ABS, chain; Weight: 206 kg, Vmax 200 km / h; New price: 6995 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 35 euros to 150 euros
total cost: approx. 1100 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Top result: Kawa workshops are the cheapest (on average less than 70 euros per hour) – at least that was the result of the dealer survey. The part costs: also at the lowest level. However, hardly any retailer can manage a small check in just half an hour. Also borderline: 6000 intervals – they are simply no longer up to date.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control 1000 km 1 h 12 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, steering head play and screws for tight fit
6000 km 30 min general control only 
12,000 km 1 h 48 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, spark plugs, steering head play and screws for tight fit, lubricate chassis parts
18,000 km 30 min Replacement of air filter
24,000 km 2 h 12 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, steering head play and screws for tight fit, lubricate chassis parts
30,000 km 30 min general control only
Note: Annual inspection irrespective of the mileage (30 min plus oil change), replacement of brake fluid and steering shaft bearings lubricate every two years, replacement of coolant, hoses and seals every three years, replacement of various brake system components every four years.

KTM 690 Duke


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KTM 690 Duke.

Data: Single-cylinder four-stroke engine, 690 cm³, injection, 70 HP at 7500 / min, 70 Nm at 5500 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 159 kg, Vmax 188 km / h; New price: 6,995 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 100 euros to 220 euros
total cost: approx. 1500 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Just a stew – but quite substantial inspection costs, due to frequent valve clearance adjustments, which are also recommended and necessary. The two-cylinder middle class comes off better in this maintenance comparison. The spare parts prices are okay, however, and the KTM workshops calculate fairly with an average of just over 70 euros per hour.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control 1000 km 1 h 20 min Replace engine oil and filter, lubricate moving parts, read out fault memories, check screw connections
10000 km 2 h 20 min Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, lubricate moving parts, read out electronic diagnostics / fault memory, check screw connections, check valve clearance and adjust if necessary
20,000 km 3 h Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, spark plugs, brake fluid, lubricate moving parts, read out electronic diagnostics / fault memory, check screw connections, check valve clearance and adjust if necessary
30,000 km 2 h 20 min Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, lubricate moving parts, read out electronic diagnostics / fault memory, check screw connections, check valve clearance and adjust if necessary
40,000 km 3 h Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, spark plugs, brake fluid, lubricate moving parts, read out electronic diagnostics / fault memory, check screw connections, check valve clearance and adjust if necessary
50,000 km 2 h 50 min Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, lubricate moving parts, read out electronic diagnostics / fault memory, check screw connections, check valve clearance and adjust if necessary
Note: Annual inspection regardless of the mileage.

Suzuki V-Strom 650


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Suzuki V-Strom 650.

Data: Two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 645 cm³, injection, 67 HP at 8800 / min, 60 Nm at 6400 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 214 kg, Vmax 185 km / h; New price: 8100 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 110 euros to 250 euros
total cost: approx. 1550 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Antiquated 6000 intervals often force a service appointment, the 24000 service is expensive. The travel machine with an affordable purchase price and affordable workshop prices (a good 70 euros / hour) is above the travel enduro queen from BMW in terms of maintenance costs due to more frequent oil changes – the frequency of which is questionable. Still in the green.

Intervals  working time Most important work besides general control 1000 km 1 h 30 min Replace engine oil, gasket and filter, read out fault memories, lubricate moving parts, tighten exhaust and landing gear screws, adjust steering head bearings
6000 km 1 h 42 min Replace engine oil, read out fault memory, lubricate moving parts, tighten exhaust and landing gear screws
12,000 km 2 h 12 min Replacing engine oil and gasket, spark plugs, reading out fault memories, lubricating moving parts, tightening exhaust and landing gear screws, adjusting steering head bearings, throttle valve synchronization
18,000 km 1 h 48 min Exchange of engine oil, gasket and filter, air filter, read out fault memory, lubricate moving parts, tighten exhaust and landing gear screws
24,000 km 3 h 30 min Exchange of engine oil and gasket, spark plugs, gaskets and screws, valve head, read out fault memory, lubricate moving parts, tighten exhaust and landing gear screws, adjust steering head bearings, throttle valve synchronization, set valve clearance
30,000 km 1 h 48 min Exchange of engine oil, gasket and filter, air filter, read out fault memory, lubricate moving parts, tighten exhaust and landing gear screws
Note: Annual inspection regardless of the mileage, brake fluid replacement every two years, coolant and brake hose replacement every four years.

Triumph Tiger 800


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Triumph Tiger 800.

Data: Three-cylinder in-line engine, 799 cm³, injection, 95 PS at 9300 / min, 79 Nm at 7850 / min, ABS optional, chain; Weight: 210 kg, Vmax 210 km / h; New price: 8990 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 90 euros to 460 euros
total cost: approx. 1700 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
The valves are turned on every 20,000 kilometers – only checking is taken into account in the reference times, setting is extra and expensive. So don’t be surprised about some high bills! The 10,000 maintenance cycle is perfectly fine, spare parts don’t cost the world, great. When it comes to hourly prices for the workshop, there are major regional differences: from 50 to 90 euros.

Intervals working time Most important work besides general control 800 km 1 h 6 min Exchange of engine oil and filter
10,000 km 1 h 36 min Change engine oil and filter, throttle valve synchronization, adjust steering head bearings
20,000 km approx. 6 h Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, spark plugs, throttle valve synchronization, lubricate and adjust steering head bearings, adjust valve clearance (extra working time, approx. 2 hours)
30,000 km 1 h 36 min Change engine oil and filter, throttle valve synchronization, adjust steering head bearings
40,000 km approx. 4 h Replace engine oil and filter, air filter, spark plugs, throttle valve synchronization, lubricate and adjust steering head bearings, adjust valve clearance (extra working time, approx. 2 hours)
50,000 km 1 h 36 min Change engine oil and filter, throttle valve synchronization, adjust steering head bearings
Note: Annual inspection regardless of the mileage, brake fluid change every two years, coolant change every three years and fuel hoses every four years.

Yamaha XJ6


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Yamaha XJ6.

Data: Four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 600 cm³, injection, 78 hp at 10,000 rpm, 60 Nm at 8500 rpm, ABS optional, chain; Weight: 206 kg, Vmax 200 km / h; New price: from 6500 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 70 euros to 300 euros
total cost: approx. 1600 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)

Conclusion
Four cylinders, higher maintenance costs – this statement is only partially true, because the unproblematic one XJ6 (Adjust valve clearance only at 40,000 kilometers) is in the good midfield in terms of inspection costs. In the Japanese comparison, however, Yamaha workshops charge an average of just under 80 euros / hour. most of all, that adds up in the long run.

Intervals  working time Most important work besides general control 1000 km 54 min Exchange of engine oil and filter, check exhaust screws for tight fit
10,000 km 3 h 15 min Check replacement of engine oil, exhaust screws and all screws relevant to driving safety for tight fit, lubricate moving parts
20,000 km 3 h 48 min Check replacement of engine oil and filter, exhaust screws and all screws relevant to driving safety for tightness, lubricate moving parts
30,000 km 3 h 15 min Check replacement of engine oil, exhaust screws and all screws relevant to driving safety for tight fit, lubricate moving parts
40,000 km 3 h 48 min Exchange of engine oil and filter, air filter, exhaust screws and all screws relevant to driving safety, check for tight fit, lubricate moving parts, adjust valve clearance
50,000 km 4 h Check replacement of engine oil, exhaust screws and all screws relevant to driving safety for tightness, lubricate moving parts, grease swing arm bearings 
Note: The annual inspection is charged with 1 h 15 min guide time, regardless of the mileage, brake fluid change every two years (plus 24 min guide time extra), coolant change every three years, test drives are added as extra time.

Overall conclusion


Service check: inspection costs


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Service and maintenance on the motorcycle.

Awesome example calculation: Depending on the region, a customer spends over 300 euros more for six hours in the BMW workshop for exactly the same service. The models presented here are difficult to compare with one another. Around 400 euros a year for the Ducati is certainly borderline, especially since the maintenance of a Kawasaki ER-6n costs only half. But then it is surprising that a Harley is cheaper than many bread-and-butter machines. The relationship of trust between authorized workshops and customers is apparently in order, at least that is evident from the online survey and Germany-wide dealer survey. This is also important because you should be able to rely 100 percent on professional service.

Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance” – the book
by Robert M. Pirsig is probably a household name for motorcycle riders who are keen on literature. The story: A philosophically swirling BMW biker, just said Mr. Pirsig, drives through
the USA. Whether you like the ham or not is secondary, but the idea that your machine is fully serviceable
Having a grip is always attractive. So also for the author of these lines, who bought a two-valve boxer during his motorcycle adolescence – believing that he could do everything himself
to be able to. A mistake. The shared flat buddy (semi-
professional screwdrivers) mostly worked on his machine at the same time. And whenever a wrench flew through the air from the direction of BMW, it shuffled over and said in a soft voice: “Take a look, buddy.” And everything turned out fine.
But what if there is no friend of mine in the
Is near? The desire to have a motorcycle is combined with the need for regular inspections. Around 1200 participants in a survey at www.motorradonline.de on the subject of maintenance and inspections saw it that way (see diagrams on the following pages). Over half of all respondents stated that they would continue to leave their motorcycle to professional hands even after the warranty period had expired, although there was no longer any obligation to do so. And they do well to do so: if there is insufficient maintenance, there is a risk of expensive consequential damage. Improper valve clearance testing and adjustment can lead to broken-in camshafts, professional workshops have already taken over cases from amateur screwdrivers in which the brake pads were inserted the wrong way round. Driving safety was extremely endangered! Then the brake assistant: Yamaha, for example, recommends activating the hydraulic unit when changing the fluid in models with ABS so that all residues can be removed cleanly. If this does not happen, a later failure of this component due to deposits can lead to repair costs of at least 1500 euros. Without electronic diagnostic devices, any malfunctions in the injection system cannot be detected early enough, and there is a risk of engine defects! An incorrectly selected cardan oil can foam and then no longer lubricate optimally: Consequence-
there is a risk of costs of up to 2000 euros. First addresses for a ver-
Trustworthy service is therefore usually contracted workshops. You will receive model-specific information from the manufacturer or importer. In addition, they all have to do with sparse motorcycles of the respective brand. An advantage over free multi-brand screwdrivers, which do a good job, but often have to find out about the model in question first. That costs time, and therefore also money.
In this MOTORRAD service check, however, you will only find popular machines, the bestsellers of the respective brand. We were interested in: How big are the differences between the brands and models? Does the Italo diva eat your hair off your head during the annual check-up, as you would expect, or does Germany’s bestseller, the GS, do so? Are entry-level bikes really low maintenance, so that getting started with a motorcycle doesn’t lead to financial decline? Riding a Harley – only affordable for lawyers and dentists? To get answers, MOTORRAD delved deep into the world of maintenance schedules. First insight: They still exist, the annoyingly frequent 6000 intervals. However, in this comparison, only Kawasaki and Suzuki ask their customers to come to the workshop so soon. Harley wants to see the Sportster every 8,000 kilometers, intervals of 10,000 are now common. Only Ducati and Honda trust their bestsellers even 12,000 kilometers. The new KTM Adventure 1190, not included here, is the first machine with 15000 intervals. The trend is therefore towards longer intervals, while the average annual mileage is towards fewer kilometers. In our sample calculations (see model boxes) we assumed 6000 kilometers per year. Really, I guess. From this point of view, most drivers would probably do well with 6000 intervals, because all brands say once a year –
regardless of the mileage – an inspection anyway.
A large telephone search across Germany should provide a better insight into the reality of inspection work and costs of the authorized workshops. For the calculation
the workshop costs were based on the average amount from the requested hourly rates. East, west, north, south, city, country – fortunately, the professionals were mostly able to take a look behind the scenes. There were large regional differences in terms of pricing. In metropolitan areas such as Hamburg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart or Munich, the hourly rates are a good tenth higher depending on the brand (Aprilia, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph, Yamaha), at BMW the workshop hour even costs over 20 percent more on average. Specifically: In the Bavarian province, only around 30 kilometers from Munich, you can screw for just under 80 euros, in the city the same work costs 144 euros gross per hour. An extreme difference, but there is another way. For Ducati and Honda, the dealer survey results showed higher average prices in rural than in metropolitan areas. The reasons for this are different. If, for example, a retailer has other, sometimes exclusive brands in their range, they can get by with a correspondingly wealthy clientele with their comparatively higher price level, even if customers who prefer to turn the penny over again stay away. A dealer from Hanover, on the other hand, reported that he was in
the city has to keep its prices low in order to remain competitive, while brand colleagues in the nearby Weser Uplands can ask for more because there is no competition.
In some cases, however, different workshop rates apply to multi-brand dealers. A specialist for Kawasaki and Triumph explains that working on a Triumph requires special tools and that overall a greater administrative effort is required than with the Japanese brand that he also represents. While the Munich BMW workshop won the price bird in this comparison – closely followed by another BMW workshop in the Baden-Wurttemberg province, which based its hourly rate of almost 130 euros on the proximity to the even more expensive Switzerland – it looks at the other End of the price structure for some workshops bitterly: Two authorized workshops (KTM, Kawasaki) in Thuringia and on the flat country
in Lower Saxony offer inspection services for less than 50 euros per hour, because in areas with a weak motorcycle structure, people simply no longer pay. Economically borderline. Also interesting: Are you mainly selling scooters, or is a car dealership affiliated? A small mechanic’s booth with a predominantly young audience naturally costs less than a dealer with car showrooms, a large building complex and service staff, because all of this is happily allocated to the workshop’s hourly rate. Some dealers help customers save money by offering low-cost alternatives to original accessories for wearing parts, provided the quality is comparable. And secretly, a few workshops revealed that they could do it from the her-
In order to be able to issue the customer with a lower invoice, he deliberately does not consistently follow the maintenance plan prescribed by the contractor for work that is considered to be excessively meticulous. Unfortunately, there are also black sheep among authorized dealers who cup the customer. For example, some invoices from previous inspections have been reported on which part costs are up to 40 percent above the recommended retail price, the
is non-binding. This is of course unfair because most customers trust the authorized repair shop and hardly ever check the price of every seal or brake pad.
But fairness should also apply to the client. If, for example, the guideline time for a “small” Inspection is just 30 minutes, the work is difficult to manage. If the customer then tells his entire vacation story when he is accepted, expects a replacement vehicle, but only wants to pay for half an hour, the dealer can swell the comb. The same applies to the allocation of appointments: Anyone who, in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the season, demands that their machine be inspected now and immediately, is not exactly popular. Tip: Many branded workshops offer a special winter service, some with a free pick-up service or discounts – better conditions and no stress thanks to good maintenance-
planning is good for everyone.
Besides, what happened at a Honda doesn’t happen. At the start of the season, the engine ran extremely restlessly – a check showed that mice had nested in the air filter box during the winter break. Note: Regular inspections always help to ensure that your own machine always runs smoothly. So take a look more often, and not just from your buddy.

Online survey

Regular inspections
I think it is
necessary
Online survey
After the warranty period has expired
be on my motorcycle
continue all inspection-
intervals carried out
selected service work done regularly
no more service appointments
perceived
very important
Online survey
The inspection work
feel for my motorcycle
I as
exaggeratedly extensive
balanced and justified
sometimes insufficient
Online survey
With the customer service at
I am the inspection appointment
completely content
mostly satisfied
rather dissatisfied
Online survey
The resulting maintenance-
work
does a brand-
Authorized workshop
does a free professional-
workshop
I do it myself,
as far as I can
Awesome example calculation: Depending on the region, a customer spends over 300 euros more for six hours in the BMW workshop for exactly the same service. The models presented here are difficult to compare with one another. Around 400 euros a year for the Ducati is certainly borderline, especially since the maintenance of a Kawasaki ER-6n costs only half. But then it is surprising that a Harley is cheaper than many bread-and-butter machines. The relationship of trust between authorized workshops and customers is apparently in order, at least that is evident from the online survey and Germany-wide dealer survey. This is also important because you should be able to rely 100 percent on professional service.

Yamaha XJ6

Data: two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 750 cm³, injection, 95 hp at 9000 / min, 79 Nm at 7250 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 210 kg, Vmax 210 km / h; New price: 8350 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 35 euros to 400 euros Total costs: approx. 1500 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Bums, the first 1000 inspection comes in with a full over 300 euros, because the valves are already to be checked and adjusted. But then: up to the expensive 20,000 service, spillage amounts are incurred, when the Shiver owner laughs again. Because there are probably many scooter specialists at work, workshop hours are gratifyingly low, often under 70 euros an hour. Parts are cheap.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine, 1170 cm³, injection, 110 hp at 7750 / min, 120 Nm at 6000 / min, ABS optional, cardan; Weight: 229 kg, Vmax 215 km / h; New price: 13,300 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 110 euros to 330 euros Total costs: approx. 1450 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
The standard times are tightly calculated by BMW, which (theoretically) keeps costs low. It is therefore hardly surprising that the contracted workshops have very high hourly rates in comparison
call (up to over 140 euros per hour worked). Nevertheless: The In-
inspection costs are at a pleasingly low level. With except-
However, scheduled repairs will make it painfully more expensive.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke 90-degree V-engine, 1198 cm³, injection, 150 hp at 9250 / min, 119 Nm at 7500 / min, ABS,
Chain; Weight: 212 kg,
Vmax 245 km / h; New price: 15 250 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 120 euros to 480 euros Total costs: approx. 2100 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
The Multistrada owner has to dig deep into his pocket every 24,000 kilometers because the so-called Desmo service is then on the plan – and adjusting the valves is a demanding screwdriver affair with this model. Depending on the region, the hourly rates are astonishingly low: sometimes less than 60 euros. The part costs, however, are extremely high.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke 45-degree V-engine, 1202 cm³, injection, 67 HP at 5700 / min, 98 Nm at 3200 / min, no ABS, toothed belt; Weight: 260 kg, Vmax 190 km / h; New price: from 9995 euros

Costs per service: from 220 euros to 415 euros Total costs: approx. 1450 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Because of expensive: Anyone can afford the maintenance of the Sportster, you do not need a lawyer or dentist income. Wear parts are cheap, no chain set is included, and there are no expensive valve clearance adjustments (hydraulic valve lifters). However, the wire spoke check again increases the costs – each inspection takes longer than two hours.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 670 cc, one-
injection, 48 hp at 6250 rpm,
60 Nm at 4750 rpm, ABS,
Chain; Weight: 218 kg,
Vmax 160 km / h; New price: 5990 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 85 euros to 360 euros Total costs: approx. 1300 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
This machine is attractive for beginners due to the low purchase price, and the inspection costs should hardly scare off motorcycle novices – manageable technology, long intervals (every 12,000 kilometers) and very fair tariffs for the annual check (on average less than 100 euros) . However, some Honda dealers set quite high hourly rates of 90 euros.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 649 cm³, injection, 72 hp at 8500 rpm, 64 Nm at 7000 rpm, ABS, chain; Weight: 206 kg,
Vmax 200 km / h; New price: 6995 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 35 euros to 150 euros Total costs: approx. 1100 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Top result: Kawa workshops are the cheapest (on average less than 70 euros per hour) – at least that was the result of the dealer survey. The part costs: also at the lowest level. However, hardly any retailer can manage a small check in just half an hour. Also borderline: 6000 intervals – they are simply no longer up to date.
Data: single-cylinder four-stroke-
Engine, 690 cc, injection,
70 hp at 7500 rpm, 70 Nm at 5500 rpm, ABS, chain; Weight: 159 kg,
Vmax 188 km / h; New price: 6995 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 100 euros to 220 euros Total costs: approx. 1500 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Conclusion
Just a stew – but quite substantial inspection costs, due to frequent valve clearance adjustments, which are also recommended and necessary. The two-cylinder middle class comes off better in this maintenance comparison. The spare parts prices are okay, however, and the KTM workshops calculate fairly with an average of just over 70 euros per hour.
Data: two-cylinder four-stroke 90 degree V-engine, 645 cm³, injection, 67 HP at 8800 / min, 60 Nm at 6400 / min, ABS, chain; Weight: 214 kg, Vmax 185 km / h; New price: 8100 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 110 euros to 250 euros Total costs: approx. 1550 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Antiquated 6000 intervals often force you to
Service appointment, the 24000 service is expensive. The travel machine with an affordable purchase price and affordable workshop prices (a good 70 euros / hour) is above the travel enduro queen from BMW in terms of maintenance costs due to more frequent oil changes – the frequency of which is questionable. Still in the green.
Data: three-cylinder in-line engine, 799 cm³, injection, 95 PS at 9300 / min, 79 Nm at 7850 / min, ABS optional, chain; Weight: 210 kg,
Vmax 210 km / h; New price: 8990 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 90 euros to 460 euros Total costs: approx. 1700 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
The valves are turned on every 20,000 kilometers – in the case of the standard times, only the checking is taken into account, the setting is
extra and expensive. So don’t be surprised about some high bills! The 10,000 maintenance cycle is perfectly fine, spare parts don’t cost the world, great. When it comes to hourly prices for the workshop, there are major regional differences: from 50 to 90 euros.
Data: four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 600 cc, one-
injection, 78 hp at 10,000 rpm,
60 Nm at 8500 rpm, ABS
optional, chain; Weight: 206 kg, Vmax 200 km / h; New price: from 6500 euros

Workshop costs per service: from 70 euros to 300 euros Total costs: approx. 1600 euros (period: five years with an annual mileage of 6000 km including wear parts)
Four cylinders, higher maintenance requirements – this one
This statement is only partially true, because the unproblematic XJ6 (adjust valve clearance only after 40,000 kilometers) is in the good midfield in terms of inspection costs. In a Japanese comparison, however, Yamaha workshops charge an average of almost 80 euros / hour. most of all, that adds up in the long run.

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