BMW F 900 XR

The BMW F 900 XR has a clean sporty appearance, which also has a hint of sophistication. It has a subtler design language than its bigger and more aggressive-looking cousin, the S 1000 XR, but it still carries its own dominant demeanor on the road. It has an assertive flare courtesy of its adaptive headlights with integrated DRLs.

Its side view is definitely a nice sight to see, complemented by sporty black finishes and its expensive-looking body paint. It runs on a ravishing pair of 17-inch aluminum cast wheels with lightweight rims adopted from the S 1000 R, its roadster cousin. These rims enhance the overall handling of this sport-tourer wherever it goes. Meanwhile, at the back, its sporty character is also very visible. It is given a compact rear that is illuminated by sleek LED turn indicators.

Riders can accurately monitor their current riding conditions thanks to the bike’s full-colour TFT display with a BMW Motorrad Connectivity feature. Its saddle is also very comfortable and supportive at the same time. It ensures that the rider and the pillion maintain a good riding stance even on longer trips. Additionally, its handlebars are also conveniently designed in a way that enables riders under 6ft to perform at their best. And, for added functionality, it comes with a USB-C charging socket and a 12V socket as standards. 

In terms of dimensions, the BMW F 900 XR measures 2,160 mm in length, 920 mm in width (without mirror), and 1,416 mm in height. It has a 1,523 mm wheelbase and a seat height of 775 to 870 mm. 

The BMW F 900 XR utilizes a suspension combination of an adjustable upside-down telescopic fork at the front and an aluminum twin-sided swingarm with a central shock absorber at the rear. Because of this suspension setup, you’ll be able to enjoy this bike’s top-notch handling, regardless if you are hitting sharp turns and corners out of town or passing through traffic inside the city. It is not stiff to maneuver and its weight is distributed properly, making it a comfortable daily rider in the city where tight spaces and streets are prominent. 

One weakness of its suspension setup, however, is its lack of absorbing abilities for a bike that is advertised as a tourer. It is not advisable to use this bike when passing through rough off-road terrain and severe potholes and bumps. But, you still cannot take away how comfortable the F 900 XR rides even on Metro Manila’s uneven concrete pavements.

The BMW F 900 XR is powered by an 895 cc, water-cooled, 2-cylinder engine that produces a maximum power output of 105 hp and a maximum torque of 92 Nm. It runs on a claw-shifted 6-speed manual gearbox. 

This sport-tourer can run effortlessly both in the city and on free-flowing highways. Overtaking will not be an issue with the F 900 XR as its engine has a good amount of reserved power and torque. It can also deliver an exhilarating cruising experience for spirited riders. It can shift smoothly thanks to its well-designed, responsive gearbox. This sport-tourer thrives on smooth, long stretches outside the city. 

However, this bike is more on the quieter side of things. It doesn’t have that loud and commanding roar that other sport bikes have. So, if you prefer that rowdy, big bike engine sound, then the F 900 XR’s powertrain might be a bit conservative for you.

Safety is also not a problem for the BMW F 900 XR. It is equipped with a front mask with a wind deflector, which can withstand the country’s unpredictable weather conditions. It has an outstanding braking setup that is supported by a BMW Motorrad anti-lock braking system Pro (ABS Pro), dynamic traction control (DTC), and an automatic stability control (ASC). It has 320 mm twin disc brakes with a 4-piston radial brake caliper at the front, while a 265 mm single disc brake with 1-piston floating caliper at the rear.

The BMW F 900 XR is a great and accessible way to own a BMW Sport bike, which is globally-renowned for its great balance of comfort and performance. If money is not an issue for you, then this sport-tourer would definitely make an enjoyable, practical daily rider inside the city.