BMW F 800 R

BMW most recently struck out on a new path in the segment of medium category motorcycles with the F 800 series launched in 2006.  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 F 800 R, the dynamic BMW naked bike for the medium category.  The engine of the F 800 R is the parallel twin with 4-valve technology and a capacity of 798 cc, already familiar from the F 800 S.

Engine
The 798cc twin lump delivers a sweet mixture of low rpm torque and accessible horsepower. The harder you work it the more the body produces adrenaline. Fuelling is perfect around town and will return a very pleasing 54mpg even when ragged on back roads. But with this excitement, from 5000rpm and on, comes niggling vibrations though the bars and pegs. You get used to this.

Ride and Handling
The feel of the BMW F800R is taut and precise. The chassis is stiff and the suspension has been developed to work in conjunction with the chassis. Under braking and through the turn the bike is settled and feels compact, solid and… great. The rear shock is a little soft for pillion use but adjustments made (spring preload, damping) actually work. Goodly amount of steering lock and low-ish seat height make the F800R a good traffic-buster.

Equipment
To keep the cost down (at £5925 it is relatively cheap for a fun-time BMW) the F800R is as basic as its competitors, suspension and stunning front brakes aside. But if you’ve got the money to spare there’s a ruck of optional extras and accessories available from onboard computer, tyre pressure monitor, ABS, higher/lower seat option (FOC), fly screen, belly pan, panniers etc, etc. Compare and buy products for the BMW F800R in the MCN Shop.