BMW F 800 GS

At first glance, not much has been changed with the BMW F 800 GS’ exterior design. It still carries its predecessor, the F 750 GS’ rugged, sporty look on the road. It has the same plastic beak at the front and sharp fairings all around. Its facade is illuminated by an LED headlight with a daytime riding light, while its rear comes with LED flashing turn indicators. The high-tech head unit from its predecessor is also retained. It still has the same 6.5-inch TFT colour display. 

With all of these in mind, there are actually some significant changes that the F 800 GS have adopted. Its instrument display now includes a BMW Motorrad Connectivity for more modernity and easier accessibility. It also comes with new heated grips and grab bars made out of steel, which replaced the plastic version of the old model. For an added layer of convenience and functionality, this bike is also given 12V and USB sockets.

Similar to many BMW Motorrad bikes, it also offers a comfortable and supportive saddle for both the rider and the pillion. It runs on a sporty-looking 19-inch aluminum cast wheel at the front, while the 17-inch counterpart at the rear. The BMW F 800 GS is 2,296 mm in length, 910 mm in width (without accessories), 1,225 mm in height, and 1,556 mm in wheelbase. The seat height is measured at 815 mm.

The BMW F 800 GS uses a telescopic fork suspension at the front and an aluminum twin-sided swingarm with a central spring strut at the rear. This suspension setup enables this adventure bike to deliver great handling even on intimidating roads with sharp curves and twisties. Off-road, you’ll feel its weight when passing through dirt roads and rough terrains. But, inside the city, this bike is nimble and relatively easy to maneuver even when passing through narrow streets and busy roads. That said, this bike not only delivers a smooth, comfortable ride, but also an adaptable one courtesy of its two standard riding modes: Rain and Road.

The BMW F 800 GS is powered by an 895 cc, water-cooled, 2-cylinder engine that generates a maximum power output of 87 hp and a maximum torque of 91 Nm. It runs on a claw-shifted 6-speed manual gearbox. 

This adventure bike has the capability to run in the city, on the highway, and off-road. However, its engine has a tendency to struggle when running at high speeds on free-flowing highways given its limited performance metrics. But, to compensate for this, it offers impressive fuel efficiency both in short and long trips. Hence, it would make a practical daily rider inside the city. Despite having a bit of a lackluster performance, this adventure bike accelerates smoothly and has a responsive transmission system.

The BMW F 800 GS boasts reliable and trustworthy safety features. Its braking setup is protected by BMW Motorrad’s anti-lock braking system Pro and a dynamic traction control. It also comes with hand protectors, ensuring that the rider is safe even in changing weather conditions. For more rider-friendliness and flexibility, it also comes with an adjustable brake and clutch levers. It uses 305 mm twin disc brakes with a 2-piston floating caliper for front braking and a 265 mm single disc brake with 1-piston floating caliper for rear braking.

The BMW F 800 GS is definitely a strong choice for consumers (with the budget) who are looking for an approachable adventure bike that is not only rider-friendly but also reliable and adaptable on different kinds of roads. It would be a great first bike for those who are adventurous and have an appetite for light to moderate off-roading.