More Info on the F800 GS, F650 GS and G450 X

Introducing the 3 all-new bikes unveiled by BMW Motorrad at the Milan Auto Show -
the F800 GS, F650 GS and G450 X.

The parallel twin F 800 GS travel enduro, not only offers the typical qualities of a travel enduro - it also offers superb off-road riding capabilities. While large-capacity enduros sometimes reach their limits because of weight and its associated design, the new
F 800 GS is completely uncompromising.

The overall package combines balance, power and weight, excellent ground clearance, long spring travel, precise wheel guidance and sophisticated ergonomics. The result is excellent off-road riding and superb long-distance performance.

The chassis combines all the features of a true enduro: a sturdy steel-tube frame that allows a steering lock of 42 degrees; a rigid upside-down forks with 230mm spring travel; a sturdy aluminium double-strut swing arm with a path-dependent cushioned spring strut and 215mm spring travel; and solid wire-spoke wheels.

A 21.1-inch front wheel in the classic enduro dimensions of 90/90-21 gives running stability during slow off-road riding. The rear wheel, with dimensions 150/70-17 ensures that the engine power is always efficiently transferred to the surface.

The drive system is the F 800 S parallel twin - now with its cylinders inclined only 8.3 degrees forward - modified for the new demands. The strong, liquid-cooled four-valve twin-cylinder engine is particularly suitable because of its instantaneous response, impressive torque and low fuel consumption.

Nominally, the engine provides 63kW / 85HP at 7 500 r/min and, at 5 750 r/min outputs a torque value of 83 Nm to the sliding bearing-based crankshaft.

Thanks to the regulated three-way catalytic converter and secondary air system, the twin releases power that is environmentally friendly. The mass balance is provided by a system that is unique in standard motorcycle design: an additional swivel conrod balances the first and second level mass forces and ensures that the twin-cylinder engine produces minimum vibration.

The low dry weight of 178kg makes a major contribution to the dynamic riding properties. When filled with petrol the F 800 GS weighs only 207kg.

The F 800 GS's smaller brother, the F 650 GS, which also has a parallel twin-cylinder engine, is aimed at people who do not need quite as much spring travel and are looking for a little less adventure. With its low seat height, it is an outstanding all-rounder; easy to control, provides plenty of power combined with economy, and is ideal for everyday use.

The new F 650 GS differs from its higher capacity variant by featuring a lower seat height, lower weight and slightly reduced engine power. It is ideal for newcomers to the genre or as a sturdy all-round motorcycle for all purposes.

Compared with its single-cylinder predecessor, the new F 650 GS is an improvement in every area. Despite its designation, which usually refers to the engine size, the F 650 GS has the same 800cc twin-cylinder engine as the F 800 GS. With slightly reduced engine power (71 instead of 85HP) the focus for the F 650 GS is on high torque at lower engine speeds coupled with excellent economy. Despite this it delivers over 20HP more power than its predecessor.

The model designation G stands for a new Generation of sporting motorcycles in the mid-range and lower capacity segments.

The G 450 X is the first BMW enduro to be uncompromisingly developed for professional competitive racing. The advantages of the unique construction are evident in rugged off-road conditions.

These include the effective concentration of masses around the centre of gravity; the engine effects eliminated by the unique swing arm mounting; the resulting low wear of chain and pinion, and extreme handling reminiscent of a 250 series motocross motorcycle. Also notable are the prodigious tracking stability, low weight, powerful engine and the high-technology spring elements.

The BMW G 450 X is a genuine sports machine that has all parts required for MOT approval as standard. This means that - unlike other vehicles in the class - it is possible to ride the BMW G 450 X to the track on public roads.

The 449 cc single-cylinder DOHC 4-stroke motor of the G 450 X was developed by BMW and is started by an electric starter; an additional kickstart is unnecessary thanks to a powerful battery and fuel-injection. A balance shaft effectively reduces the vibrations typical of a single-cylinder engine, whilst the engine is fed with oil by a wet sump lubrication system.

The frame of the BMW G 450 X consists of thin-walled, but high-strength stainless steel precision tubes and is welded to the node points with forged parts deployed for the purpose. No additional surface treatment is necessary. The entire main frame weighs a mere 8.6 kilogrammes and is distinguished by excellent rigitity.

A powerful brake system with double-piston floating caliper, from Brembo, ensures the deceleration of the BMW G 450 X, whilst a unique feature of the BMW G450 X is the coaxial mount of the swing arm and chain pinion. The chain tension therefore remains constant, independent of the compression position; the pinion, chain and chain ring are subject to less wear than in conventional constructions. A positive effect on the riding characteristics is that the effect of changing loads on the powertrain is now noticeably reduced.

The exact technical data of the BMW G 450 X has not yet been finalised, but with an overall weight with a full tank of approximately 120kg, the BMW G 450 X is lighter than the current best weight values in its class.