Retrofit of Reverse Assistant

For BMW motorcycles, the "Reverse Assistant" or "Reversing Aid" is an optional factory feature that can be retrofitted on certain models. This system uses the starter motor to gently power the bike backward while the rider controls the speed. The retrofit involves installing a hardware kit and then coding the bike's Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to enable the function. 

Models available for reverse assist retrofit

The electric reverse assist is generally available for larger, heavier touring and cruiser models that use the CANBUS electrical system, making maneuvering difficult. Compatible models include: 

• K Series: K 1600 GT, GTL, Bagger, Grand America

• R Series: R 18, R 1250 RT

• Other heavy tourers: Check with a BMW Motorrad dealer or a specialized forum for your specific model's compatibility. 

Programming procedure with GS-911

This procedure assumes the official BMW retrofit hardware kit has been physically installed according to the factory instructions. 

Step 1: Preparation

1. Connect power: Plug the motorcycle into a battery charger to ensure the voltage remains stable throughout the coding process. This is crucial to prevent errors.

2. Connect diagnostic tool: Plug the GS-911 device into the bike's diagnostic port (OBD-2 on newer models, or the round 10-pin port on older ones).

3. Establish connection: Turn on the ignition and connect your computer or smartphone to the GS-911 device via Wi-Fi. 

Step 2: Perform the coding

1. Open the software: Launch the GS-911 software and select your motorcycle model.

2. Navigate to retrofit functions: In the main menu, go to "Service Functions," and then to "Retrofits and Removals".

3. Initiate coding: Select the "Reverse Assistant" retrofit option. Follow the on-screen instructions and click "Perform Retrofit".

4. Confirm the coding: The
   GS-911
   will display a confirmation message, and the process will code the body control module (BCM) and other relevant ECUs. The TFT display may restart during this process. 

Step 3: Clear fault codes

1. Run auto-scan: After the coding procedure is complete, run an "Auto-scan" to identify any new or remaining fault codes.

2. Clear codes: Clear any fault codes that appear. This helps to ensure the new system is correctly initialized and there are no communication errors. 

Step 4: Verify the function

1. Engage the system: With the motorcycle running and in neutral, press the reverse assist button (often on the left handlebar).

2. Check the display: The reverse assist symbol should appear on the dash.

3. Test the movement: Gently press the starter button to engage the reverse function, which will use the starter motor to move the bike slowly backward. Release the button to stop. 

What to know about the retrofit

• Hardware installation is required: Unlike some minor cosmetic retrofits, reverse assist requires a dedicated button and wiring, making it a hardware-and-software retrofit. The programming step is only possible after the physical components are installed.

• Not available on all models: This feature was never offered on sport or lightweight models and cannot be retrofitted to them. The bike must have the underlying system architecture to support the upgrade.

• Dealer vs. DIY: While a dealership can perform the complete retrofit, a DIY approach using a diagnostic tool like the
  GS-911
  is a viable option for those comfortable with the process. 

The electric Reverse Assistant can be retrofitted on specific, heavier BMW Motorrad models that have the factory CANBUS electrical system to support the function. For many bikes, this feature was an optional extra from the factory. Compatibility is crucial, as the retrofit requires the bike to have the necessary underlying system architecture. 

K Series

• Models: K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, K 1600 B, and K 1600 Grand America.

• Years: This retrofit is possible on many models from 2017 onward, particularly those updated for Euro 4 regulations and the latest CANBUS systems. 

R Series

• Models: The reverse assistant is available for the large-displacement R series tourers, including the R 1250 RT and the R 18 cruiser models.

• Years:

  • R 18: This optional feature is available for retrofit on many R 18 models from their initial production in 2020 onward.

  • R 1250 RT: The retrofit option is available for R 1250 RT models equipped with the CANBUS system, typically from 2020 onward. 

Models not compatible

The reverse assistant is not available or compatible with all BMW motorcycle models. It cannot be retrofitted on bikes that lack the necessary CANBUS integration and motor control systems, such as:

• Standard GS models (e.g., F 900 GS)

• Roadster models (e.g., F 900 R)

• Sport models (e.g., S 1000 RR) 

How to check compatibility

The most accurate way to confirm if your specific model and year can be retrofitted with the reverse assistant is to use one of the following methods:

• Contact a BMW Motorrad dealer: Provide your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). They can use their official parts and diagnostics system to confirm compatibility.

• Use an online parts catalog: Websites like bike-parts-bmw.com allow you to search for official parts based on your model and production year. If a "Reverse assist control unit" or "Reverse assist retrofit kit" is listed as a factory option, a retrofit may be possible.