ClUB ToolBoX

GS911 Diagnostic Tool

By Tony Gray, Member #3905

There is no more popular tool at club service days then the GS911 Diagnostic tool. Contrary to what the name implies, the GS911 tool is suitable for a wide range of BMW motorcycles, not just the GS range. So what does this piece of electronic wizardry do? Let’s go straight to the manufacturer’s introduction to the tool: The GS-911 wifi by HEX Microsystems is a Windows PC based diagnostic tool for BMW motorcycles and is well suited to both owners and workshops. It communicates with the control units of your motorcycle and empowers you to do various maintenance and diagnostic tasks. It allows you to read and clear fault codes, see real-time sensor values, reset service reminders, do component function tests, calibrations and much more. The model owned by the club has capacity to code in an unlimited number of bikes. Cheaper models have a limited 10 bike capacity. The club also has an adapter plug so that the ‘round’ 7 pin connector of the GS 911 can interface with the ‘flat’ 16 pin connector of earlier oil-head BMW models. This is very similar to electrical trailer plugs with which most members would be familiar. The GS911 connects via cable or WiFi to a compact computer which has the GS911 software installed. When connected to your bike via an under-seat plug you are able to read the full history of your bike contained in the bikes ‘brain’. The two most popular uses for the tool at service days are to reset service reminders for those who service their own bike, and to check and drill down into any fault codes. Once familiar with the operation it is very easy to navigate the various screens available even for a technology Neanderthal like the writer. Have a look and ask a question at the next service day – I guarantee that the GS911 will be getting put to good use.