In 2015, the Bavarians quite seriously improved the line of BMW F 800 R motorcycles. This naked bike belongs to the medium-sized ones, but is already seriously “offending” its Japanese counterparts. In addition, in modern conditions, where the ruble is constantly falling, German manufacturers very successfully manage to maintain affordable prices, much more attractive than those of their competitors. And if we add to this the truly German quality of each motorcycle, it is clear why the BMW F 800 R is in great demand.
This model can serve as an entrance ticket to the world of German technology. As you know, everything made in Germany is highly technological. So does the BMW F 800 R, which has undergone improvements both cosmetic and technical. True, if we compare Honda motorcycles with the older colleagues of the German naked bike, the latter will be slightly inferior.
As for external improvements, the first thing that catches your eye is the traditional headlight, which replaced the previous asymmetrical optics. This attracts traditional buyers.
Features of the BMW F 800 R model
Technically, the BMW F 800 R has also been improved. Its first two gears are cut off, and therefore the acceleration dynamics have become significantly better. Instead of the traditional one, an inverted telescopic fork was installed. This makes the equipment more stable and stable on poor road surfaces. In addition, the motorcycle has become more controllable, which cannot but please fans of fast riding.
Also installed on the model:
- proprietary electronically adjustable ECA suspension;
- Brembo radial brackets;
- automatic stability system.
As for the dashboard, it has not undergone any changes. However, this is correct, just like the older brothers of the BMW F 800 R had an excellent, concise and understandable dashboard. By the way, the suspension adjustment button is also available on older naked models, but there it is a budget version.
Only 3 horsepower was added to the engine. Now the power is 90 hp. Torque has not changed - 86 Nm at 5800 rpm. The numbers, of course, are not bad, but in this regard, Honda motorcycles are clearly superior to the BMW F 800 R line. So no, those who crave “brutal” acceleration are better off switching to Japanese models. The BMW F 800 R motorcycle is considered to be a city transport vehicle. Outside the city you can only drive it to the dacha on a good surface. And this does not imply enormous speeds at all.
I decided to write a few words about my first motorcycle – a blue-and-white 2013 BMW F800R, on which I traveled more than 16 thousand km over 4 seasons from 2014 to 2022. Since the bike is already sold, this is a Post review.
Obviously, all reviews and reviews of motorcycles are very subjective, especially if they are made by non-professional motorcycle journalists. Reviews and ratings depend to a large extent on what a person has ridden before, and how and where he usually rides... The FR has several very pleasant qualities, but it also has annoying drawbacks. In my case, the motorcycle was used mainly in Moscow for relatively quiet movement around the city + forays around the near Moscow region (for example, walks to Tver, Vladimir, Stupino, etc.) from late March to mid-October. I opened category A at the end of 2013 and was looking for a motorcycle in the winter of 13-14. I was looking for a light motorcycle for the city with medium power. I dismissed sports immediately, since I didn’t intend to go to the track. I didn’t consider cruisers, but I was wary of Ducati because of the mixed reviews. + My height is not prohibitive, so I was looking for something not too tall. At that time I was considering such models as the KTM 390 - too small and the Kawasaki ER-6N/F, Honda NC700 - the reviews were confusing. I almost became the owner of a Kawasaki ER-6F, but the deal fell through. The appearance of the F800R immediately captivated me, and it didn’t cost much more than other models, taking into account the equipment. Based on reviews on the Internet, I also liked it.
I'll start with what bothered me the entire period of ownership:
- Vibrations in the operating range of movement on the highway. In the middle speed range, vibrations are quite noticeable on the steering wheel and during more or less prolonged driving, even if you just hold the steering wheel without squeezing it, they remain an itch in the palms.
- As a result of vibrations, the image in the mirrors is blurred and, usually, you see only contours, without any details. Highly dependent on speed
- Bad catch of neutral from the first. As I understand it, this is a problem for all FRs in general. I got confused and tried to overcome the problem with the help of. dealers. I lost a lot of time and more than 20 thousand, it got a little better, but not much.
- Driving over 140 km/h begins to become uncomfortable due to the wind. If the wind is strong, then an interesting situation is that sometimes you drive comfortably at 160, and sometimes it blows away at 120, depending on its direction.
- Although the seating position is comfortable, when driving for a long time, the legs bent at the knees begin to get tired. I want to warm up, although this is not critical.
Pros of a motorcycle
- Very compact, nimble, ideal for the city and driving through traffic jams, despite the fairly wide steering wheel and mirrors. Here is an example of my trip through traffic jams
- After other motorcycles (F800GS, for example), it seems like a light compact moped. And that is great. Dry weight – 177kg, if I remember correctly. It steers well - both with the steering wheel and with your knees.
- Almost all the time I traveled with the central trunk. This is very convenient, since there is always the opportunity to put a helmet there, and the raincoat is always with me.
- The box allows you to squeeze the clutch and quickly click through gears from 5 to 2, if required.
- Excellent brakes. No complaints, tenacious and informative. The weight is small, while there are 2,320 mm discs in front.
- The motorcycle is quite friendly and not jerky. We can say that you can drive in 2 modes - up to 5 thousand revolutions and after 6. The first is pensioner mode, the second is active. Convenient for both beginners and those who like to rock.
- The tank is located under the seat, which lowers the center of gravity and makes it easier to maneuver at low speeds
- Although to start you need to get used to applying gas, the torque from the two-cylinder engine is very decent - 86 N*m. It starts at 3000, then, after a slight dip, reaches a maximum at 6-7 thousand rpm.
- My average fuel consumption in the city is 6 liters of 95 gasoline. On the highway, if you drive slowly ~110-120 km/h it turns out to be even more economical. If you add gas to 140+, the consumption increases significantly. However, a 16 liter tank allows you to travel 250+ km.
- A large selection of equipment for a mid-sized naked bike - heated handles, LED turn signals, alarm with remote control, central stand, roll bars from the manufacturer, pannier mounting system.
- I really like the appearance with the asymmetrical headlight, it’s even a little unfortunate that such a headlight was gone during the restyling. I really like the combination of white and blue.
- The suspension is quite soft. This may be a drawback for active high-speed driving, but it allows you to move quite painlessly on our roads, when the asphalt has been removed.
During all this time there were no problems on the road. Changing the battery is a credit to storing the bike without recharging, I suspect. A burnt-out lamp (in a garage after the season closes) does not count. Yes, and I didn’t harm the motorcycle - I had it checked on time and only braked on the asphalt with the wheels. In 2022 I installed Metzeler Roadtec 01 - excellent tires, in my opinion.
After Fra, I wanted more wind protection, less vibration, a little more power without significant loss of maneuverability in traffic jams, since I spend most of my time on the roads of the capital. For now I’ve settled on the S1000XR, with a lowered suspension - we’ll check in the spring how justified my choice was.
And I gave FR away by trade... This is how I last saw him
Only for some reason the sellers were reluctant to give it to new buyers :)
Possibilities
The BMW F 800 R motorcycle is a friendly, tolerant machine with minimal fuel consumption. This is exactly what is required for those who are just starting their biker journey. Honda motorcycles are more dangerous in this regard. However, even with such characteristics, the “baby” has the full range of functions of its “big” brothers:
- proprietary automated control system;
- heated steering wheel grips;
- three heights of the driver's seat.
This is just a small taste of what you can get for an additional fee when purchasing a BMW F 800 R. This also includes a high windshield and branded Bavarian panniers. By the way, the absence of a windshield on the base model is quite justified, as it limits the speed of movement and even discourages the desire to accelerate on the highway.
BMW f800r review 2010
4 of 5 September 02, 2020 Shane Livesley
Version: 2019 Sport (BMW Motorsport Colors)
Year of issue: 2019
Annual maintenance cost: £277
Bought as a return to motorcycling after being away due to lack of a garage and having children, I wanted a bike that was comfortable and affordable for commuting. It was available on PCP's Big Deal, so signed up for it. I decided to drive naked to help slow down. The bike does everything I need. Has a reasonable amount of energy. Great brakes and easy to ride. The angles are good. The headlight is pretty useless for night driving, although if you commute to work at any time and throughout the year.
My commute is roads A and B. The bike has now been replaced by an F900R and XR. This affected the cost. I've seen dealers get rid of over £2,000 worth of new old stock. Good for the buyer if he doesn't want the F900R not too good for me when I've had the bike for a year and owe more than I see new old stock selling. I have the Sports model but didn't go with the optional Dynamic and Touring packs as it added another £1000 to the cost and thought they weren't needed. However, this will affect the resale value.
Ride quality and brakes 5 out of 5
Ride quality is excellent. You read a lot about vibration. Not a problem on my commute, longest ride is about 2 hours and my hands felt it. The mirrors aren't that great at certain speeds with vibration. The brakes are simply amazing. Ride quality is ok, could use a higher screen as I'm fed up of being hit by bugs on my rides. If you want a sensible bike that's relatively cheap to ride, this is a good option. Bring extra luggage bags and a tall screen and you're good to go on tour.
Engine 4 out of 5 Going from online 4 to Gemini, there is a slight difference. Also used to sports tourists who are a little faster. Honestly, the twin does everything well. Yes, it vibrates at a certain speed through the mirrors, but I can live with that. Enough power for overtaking and driving.
Reliability and build quality 5 out of 5 Reliable. To date there have been no problems with 2800 miles (limited due to Covid). Have a BMW service plan included with your PCP plan so there is no need to budget for service.
Supplies I had to have the rear LED because it broke, probably because it had a cover on it. I have some oil, but haven't needed to top it up since.
Value against rivals 4 out of 5 Three years of service for £829. The insurance is quite reasonable. Tax according to motorcycle. So far hasn't needed anything other than standard maintenance. Good mpg.
Equipment 3 out of 5 This is where it lets itself down compared to the likes of the Yamaha MT and other competitors.
You have to pay a little more for extras. I have a sports model in BMW motorsport colors. The Sport gets wheels with a red stripe around it, an engine hood and a rear seat hood. It comes with rain and road mode as standard. There is no temp, gear indicator TPMS unless you have updates. You cannot upgrade them as they are factory options. If I had heated grips, I think I could convert the above items to show on the LCD. Too bad the seller didn't know this when he sold it to me!! The new F900R and XR now come in different trims that offer the most extras. The tractor is fit but I would consider having one again as it's £120 a year and I don't think I'd save that on insurance, although as it's not heavily guarded I thought it best get.
Purchase Experience: Purchased from a dealer. Total cost £9,206 with BMW service plan included. Got a 0% PCP deal, without which I probably would have bought an older bike, but needing to get my claim back, opted for a mid-range bike that could do what I needed it to do well.
