Motorcycle specifications BMW F 900 GS 2024 Pressure on benefits

BMW adds muscle and power to its mid-size GS. The sector is booming, and the competition cannot be allowed to settle in. The F 900 GS is here to show off its incisors, with some serious changes compared to the 850. Since Triumph brought out the Tiger 900 Rally, Ducati gave birth to its 937 DesertX, KTM is sweating adventure with its 890... Adventure, that... In short, you've got it, you've got to be on your toes to stay in the game.

It's a spectacular update. In appearance, at least. The eight-and-a-half GS had all the stylistic codes of the trail bike as we know it: prominent duckbill, long stance, somewhat bourgeois look (normal for a Behemoth), scents of road versatility. The new 900 takes this stereotype in the opposite direction: with its raised stature, short nose, centered shoulders and streamlined silhouette, it's much more rally-raid-inspired. A welcome development, since in the duo of medium-sized GS models ( 700 / 800, 750 / 850, and now 800 / 900), the "biggest" has always been the most off-road-oriented.

As a result, the F 900 GS presents a suit worthy of prefacing with the Honda Africa Twin and Aprilia Tuareg. The riding position has evolved with the same idea, moving towards a more off-road-oriented ergonomics. The handlebars are 15 mm higher, the footrests 20 mm lower and now in enduro format, and the shape of the fuel tank has also been reworked - all to optimize rider efficiency in the upright position. The designers also installed a new rear brake pedal. The functions of the adjustable selector have been retained.

With its new face and upright stance, the F 900 GS looks meaner than previous generations. Engine-wise, it is! The 850' s twin had been ogling its cousin on the F 900 R and F 900 XR for some time. As a result, the cylinders have been enlarged by 2 mm, from 853 to 895 cm3, just like their cousins. The bonus is immediate. 10 more horsepower and a maximum of 105 hp (at 8,500 rpm). This puts it right at the top of its class. Torque, on the other hand, has changed little. Only 0.1 mkg more, for a maximum of 9.5 mkg. BMW points out that its curve is much more "consistent".
On the other hand, it loses A2 compatibility.

But the F 900 GS doesn't just rely on its increased power to make the difference. It also reaps the rewards of a targeted diet. From one generation to the next, 14 kilos have been shed. It's as if she'd got rid of a full tank. Well, that's just it, the tank. By swapping steel for plastic, it has been lightened by 4.5 kg. The completely redesigned rear buckle is 2.4 kg lighter. The exhaust is now a standard Akrapovic - it's beautiful, high quality, singing, and 1.7 kg lighter. BM has also saved weight with an aluminum side stand, the removal of the pack carrier, a new battery, a reworked swingarm (250g) and a new headlight (600g). The latter offers a wider beam angle.
As a result, the trail drops to 219 kg ready to ride. Still a bit heavy for the category...

That's less of a concern, thanks to the balance of Munich's production and the enrichment of its equipment. BMW remains faithful to its policy of almost compulsory optional extras, but has made efforts to improve the on-board equipment. Heated grips, handguards and a multifunction holder (for GPS, smartphone, walkman, etc.) are now standard. The chassis is even better, with an all-new Showa upside-down fork that is now fully adjustable. The rear shock gains rebound adjustment in addition to preload. Travel remains at 230 mm front / 215 mm rear, among the highest values in the segment. The shield-type steel frame and wheels remain unchanged. Their dimensions are designed for off-road use, with 90/90 - 21 and 150/70 - 17 tires, and 305 mm brake discs. Unlike some competitors equipped with large, sporty Brembo calipers (4-piston radials), the F 900 GS relies on more conventional double-piston shoes.

Only the electronics have not been updated. A pity, as it would have been nice to add the "Enduro" riding mode to those already standard ("Rain" and "Road"). Alongside these, BMW's mid-size trail bike features cornering-reactive ABS Pro, traction control, a handsome 6.5-inch "Connectivity" display, 12V and USB sockets, full LED lighting, and.... ah no, damn! Shifter, keyless start or tire pressure control are optional. Like the Pro driving modes (Dynamic - Enduro - Enduro Pro), engine torque regulation, dynamic braking control, intelligent emergency call, Dynamic ESA electronic suspension and the Enduro Pro package.

let's take a look at the class as a whole: KTM 890 Adventure R, Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition, Aprilia Tuareg 660, Ducati DesertX, Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro, Yamaha Tenere 700 World Rally, Honda 750 Transalp, Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE - that's a lot of people on the track. I'm surprised that BMW has upgraded to the F 900 GS. It's got more watts and a much more adventurous profile, but without forgetting a bit of fun. The "Passion" color takes us to Brazil with its yellow and red cocktail; the black is as austere as coal; while the GS Trophy trend confirms the enduro spirit with its gold rims, engine cowling and reinforced hand guards.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos