BMW Hydraulic clutch problems All models pre LC

There are two common problems

The most common is that the handlebar clutch reservoir is over full, they need an
air gap as stated in the owners handbook and without it effectively a hydraulic
lock occures that holds the clutch slightly engaged and therefore the clutch slips

Secondly you may have a slave leak but 2 minutes to undo the cover will you if it's
over full..if so spoon some out or use a clean paper towel to soak some up, you
want at least 5mm of air gap

If you have a slave leak then the level will be dropping in the reservoir and the
clutch action will be very long, that is hard to disengage, trouble shifting, bike
creeps forwards with the clutch dragging when stationery and in gear

The important thing with a slave going is to replace it as soon as you can, if you
are quick the hydraulic oil will not fill the pushrod tube and contaminate the
clutch friction plate, this alone will save you many hundreds of Pounds and 10
hours labour at BMW

Next time I am that far into the back of my gearbox I intend to drill a weep hole
under the slave to allow any leak to be quickly seen, this was a very common mod
on the old K bikes which had the same system / problem

Be aware the fluid level rises as the clutch wears so an annual inspection is vital.