For BMW motorcycle owners keen on maintaining their bikes, diagnostic tools can be invaluable. While the Hex GS911 is a well-regarded option, its higher price point can be a barrier for some. Fortunately, a more budget-friendly alternative exists: combining the ScanTool MX OBD2 scanner with the Motoscan app. This setup delivers significant diagnostic capabilities at a fraction of the cost, making it an appealing choice for DIY enthusiasts.
The original poster on a BMW motorcycle forum discovered this effective combination. Facing the reluctance to invest heavily in a GS911 for occasional use, they explored alternatives and landed on the ScanTool MX. Priced affordably at around $80, this Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, when paired with the Motoscan app designed specifically for BMW motorcycles, unlocks a range of diagnostic and maintenance functions.
One of the key benefits highlighted was the ability to reset the service reminder, a common maintenance task. The Motoscan app, compatible with the ScanTool MX, performed this flawlessly. Furthermore, the app extends its functionality to include ABS module activation, a feature previously associated with higher-end tools like the GS911, useful for complete brake system bleeding. While not claiming to match every feature of the GS911, this combination covers essential maintenance and diagnostic needs for BMW motorcycles.
The total investment for this setup is significantly less than the GS911. The ScanTool MX is approximately $80, and a connector cable for older BMW models with a 10-pin connector (pre-OBDII standard) adds about $20. Newer BMW motorcycles, equipped with standard OBDII connectors, eliminate the need for this adapter. The Pro version of the Motoscan app, required for full functionality including service reset, is available for around $28 on the Android Play Store.
In conclusion, for a total outlay of approximately $130, BMW motorcycle owners can achieve substantial diagnostic and maintenance capabilities using the ScanTool MX and Motoscan app. This presents a compelling and cost-effective alternative to the more expensive GS911, particularly for riders who perform their own basic maintenance and diagnostics.
