- BMW favourite gets 2017 makeover
- F800 coming in two models, lots of options
- Similar look – but looking much smoother
MUNICH, Germany – BMW Motorrad has revised its popular mid-range category by revising the F800 R roadster and the sport touring F800 GT… and each appears to be belt-drive.
“The two-cylinder machines.” BMW Motorrad says, “have always cut a great figure – whether for urban cruising, enjoying winding country roads in sporty style or dynamic touring with a pillion rider and luggage.
“This applies more than ever to these new versions which demonstrate further-improved all-round qualities.”
The main amendments:
- Newly designed end-piece of the standard exhaust tail pipe.
- Ride-by-wire system for improved response and controllability
- “Rain” and “Road” riding modes made standard.
- “Dynamic” riding mode for a sportier riding style as an option.
- Instrument panel with new dials, MIL indicator lamp and riding mode display.
- Windshield with matted model inscription (F 800 GT).
- New model inscription in galvanised look (F800 GT).
- New colour schemes: F800 R: Racing Red non-metallic, Blackstorm metallic, BMW Motorsport (Lightwhite non-metallic/Lupine Blue metallic/Racing Red non-metallic).
- F800 GT: Gravity Blue metallic matt, Lightwhite non-metallic, Blackstorm metallic.
- New options such as higher handlebars (F800 R) and “Design Option” wheels (F800 R).
- New BMW Motorrad Accessories, e.g. HP sports silencer.
The ride-by-wire system passes on the rider’s commands directly from a sensor on the twist grip to the engine control system and from there to the throttle valve. The result, BMW says, is even finer controllability and an improved response.
It also allows implementation of the new standard riding modes “Rain” and “Road” for damp and dry road surfaces respectively as well as the “Dynamic” option to support a more sporty riding style,
Each model has an instrument panel consisting of analog displays for the speedometer and rev counter and a multi-function display. A malfunction indicator light has been added the dials have been made clearer and the display has been extended to include riding-mode information.
The higher handlebar option allows a more relaxed posture, BMW says. “In conjunction with a low seat,” the bikemaker adds, “the new handlebar provides an ergonomic shorter riders.”
The “Design Option” wheels (ex-works option) might appeal to those who prefer a motorcycle with a strikingly sporty look. There’s a decorative red line around the wheel that emphasises the sporty, dynamic aspirations of the new roadster “very much”, BMW says, “in the style of the superbike BMW S1000 RR.
…AND THE OPTIONS
The optional accessories range also includes an HP sports silencer for both bikes which, BMW says, is “not only provides a striking, throaty, sound but also a very sporty design. The end piece carbon fibre also for a marked touch of technical style”.
Carman's Corner 