In addition to the sporty F 800 S, the first model variation to be presented, and the F 800 ST with its touring capabilities, the fourth BMW Motorrad engine series was supplemented in 2007 with the F 800 GS and the F 650 GS – two dynamic enduro models in the very best BMW GS tradition.
With the new F 800 R, BMW now takes the logical step of expanding the F 800 model series further by presenting at the EICMA 2008 – the Milan motorcycle show - a sporty roadster in the segment of medium category naked bikes designed for a high level of riding dynamics and maximum riding fun. Alongside the two roadsters R 1200 R and K 1300 R, this is now the third BMW roadster to see its world premiere in the BMW Urban world of experience: the new BMW F 800R, the dynamic BMW naked bike for the medium category. The rated output of the engine is 64 kW/87 bhp at approx. 8,000 rpm and produces a torque of 86 Nm at approx. 6,000 rpm. Closely based on the big BMW roadster K 1300 R in its design, the distinctively sporty BMW F 800 R with its orientation towards a high level of riding dynamics delivers just what its dynamic exterior promises.
While many motorcycle companies have been struggling since the worldwide economic recession started in 2008, BMW has been fairing pretty well. BMW seems to be getting it, marketing-wise.
BMW’s two-wheel offensive seems to be continuing with undiminished energy. The F800S was a sporty version of the parallel-twin family, sold alongside the GS and F650 GS adventure-tourers and the ST sport-tourer. It’s still powered by BMW’s DOHC, 8-valve parallel twin displacing 798cc, but in this guise the engine produces slightly more power.
Maximum torque is produced at 63 pound-feet at 6,000 rpm, but there’s good torque distribution across the engine’s operating range, with 90-percent of it available at just 5,000 rpm.
The riding position is fairly standard, with an aluminum handlebar with a modest rise and curve toward the rider. BMW has been paying a lot of attention to seat height (and its reduction) lately, and tall riders like me would actually prefer a higher seating position.
Other than that, riding comfort is good. BMW uses Sachs suspension pieces, and the fork is a stout 43mm unit. BMW Motorrad manager Pieter De Waal talks about bringing more of BMW’s vaunted performance and technology virtuosity from its car line across to the motorcycle side, and the way this bike steers could be an example of what he’s talking about.
Also great is that BMW uses Brembo brake components on the F800, with four-piston calipers up front, and standard-equipment ABS. Beginner Riders
We’ve said it before, we’d prefer beginners ride 250s, but if you must splash out on a "BMW F800R", then the reasonable seat height, flexible engine, standard ABS and easy-riding nature of the bike is on your side. Intermediate Riders
This is really not a bad bike for riders with some experience. The relatively undemanding rider position, mild-mannered engine and nicely balanced control weights will work with you to improve your skills. Just keep riding that BMW F800R.
While experts won’t find the BMW F 800R to be the strongest machine they’ve ever piloted, mature riders will likely accept the decent balance between speed, ride comfort, economy and versatility.