C650GT - preload spring adjustment clearance

[JamesBenPrice]

I have a 2017 C650GT and would like to adjust the rear preload spring. I have the tool and I've read the manual. There just doesn't seem to be enough (hardly any) room to adjust the preload (between the foot rests and the body cover just above the spring. I can't even raise it one click without hitting the cover. Is there a trick to doing this?

Ben Price - San Antonio

 

[EvilTwin]

Manual says on the centerstand and use the tool that came with the bike. Mine is already set on the lowest setting so I havent had the pleasure of fiddling with it.

 

[slant911]

Just went out to take a look. There is room in there for me as the tool angle gives great clearance. Was able to go up or down on preload one divot at a time.

 

[JamesBenPrice]

Here is a picture of the clearance for adjusting the preload spring on my 2017 BMW C650GT. All suggestions graciously accepted. I have the tool, and I've read the manual. There just isn't enough room for the tool to move.

 

[slant911]

James, Looks the same as mine but with the angled handle of the tool mine just fits for one notch at a time adjustment. You could take the side plastic off...not that crazy hard and should give plenty of room then.

 

[speedtoys]

Yes, there is plenty of room with the tool.

 

[moodleman]

Well, I wouldn't call it "plenty" of room. But with a bit of wriggling of the tool it is just possible to adjust it. As slant911 says, "one notch at a time". Difficult but possible.

 

[DrCohen]

I just tried to increase the preload using the tool, with the bike on the centerstand. It is just barely possible, if I persist until the plastic body panel bends significantly.
It's hard to believe the design is this bad. Next time I'm at the dealer, I'll ask about it.

 

[Final.Drive]

I just tried to increase the preload using the tool, with the bike on the centerstand. It is just barely possible, if I persist until the plastic body panel bends significantly.
It's hard to believe the design is this bad. Next time I'm at the dealer, I'll ask about it.

It's certainly less than ideal but the included slanted wrench does work as others have stated. Take your time and make sure you get the spanner wrench hooked up as low (or high) as possible in the opposite direction you're moving the ring. With some muscle used you will get one click at a time until it is in the position you want. Maybe stating the obvious, but increaseing preload is harder to do than decreasing as you are compressing the spring.

 

[DrCohen]

I just tried to increase the preload using the tool, with the bike on the centerstand. It is just barely possible, if I persist until the plastic body panel bends significantly.
It's hard to believe the design is this bad. Next time I'm at the dealer, I'll ask about it.

I was wrong and @Final.Drive and @speedtoys are right. I misinterpreted the tool kit hook wrench as requiring that both hooks be engaged. I finally realized that it is actually two hook wrenches on a single handle. The pulling hook must be engaged, while the trailing hook does not. Now it is not difficult.