Motorcycle specifications BMW F 450 R 2027

Following its successful entry into the 4.5-class trail bike segment with the F 450 GS, BMW is building on that momentum with the roadster version of this platform. The 400/500cc segment continues to recruit new players into its ranks and to court A2-license riders. The blue-and-white badge is carving out its share of the market with the F 450 R.

It’s a pretty nice little bike, replacing the G 310 R—and with far more compelling features. Starting with a look that’s less frail and more assertive. A certain family resemblance is evident, mainly in the headlight; but the 450’s design takes its cue from the fierce S 1000 R. Its shoulders benefit the most from this, with a style that really grips you.

Small but powerful

When it sees its big brothers (the S 1000 R and M 1000 R) eager to take on fierce hyperfighters, the F 450 R figures there’s a way to lay down the law in uncharted territory. For itself.
Because the CFMOTO 450 NK, Kawasaki Z 500, Honda CB 500 Hornet, KTM 390 Duke, Aprilia 457 Tuono (and many others) are already on the scene. To carve out its own niche, the BM roadster will rely on its brand name, its styling, and its playful and dynamic twin-cylinder engine (see our review of the F 450 GS). Delivering 48 chevaux at 8,750 tr/mn—exactly the maximum power output for the class—this 420 cm3 engine has been slightly modified to better suit road use. Its maximum torque reaches 43 Nm at 6,750 rpm, 80% of which is available as low as 3,000 rpm.

As for the chassis, the R model retained most of the GS’s components but adapted a number of elements. The frame, swingarm, brakes, and suspension are identical. However, the suspension travel has been reduced by 40 mm (from 180 mm to 140 mm), and its settings have been adjusted accordingly. If needed, the shock absorber lets you adjust the preload and rebound. As standard, the 43-mm inverted fork does not allow you to adjust it—unless you opt for the Exclusive or M Sport versions.

Lively or edgy?

The F 450 R may share a common platform with the trail model, but its handling will be quite different. With a wheelbase 6 cm shorter, wider 17-inch tires, a steeper caster angle, an exhaust system relocated under the engine, and the rider positioned further forward, the riding philosophy promises a more incisive, more fun, and livelier on-road character.
Just hopping on will get you in the mood. At 790 mm from the ground, the seat is significantly more accessible than that of the GS, which is 55 mm higher. The handlebars are positioned further forward and lower, while the footrests are raised and set further back. The stance and riding position are tailored to the bike’s purpose. In addition, the fuel tank has been redesigned and now holds 14 liters of gasoline.

The ergonomics can be customized with optional extras. Yes, with BMW, there’s no getting around it. But before diving into those options, a quick tour of the bike shows that the F 450 R is no joke. Standard features include a gear selector, a rear brake pedal, and a forged aluminum side stand; all-LED lighting; a USB-C port; three riding modes (Rain / Road / Dynamic), angle-sensitive ABS and traction control, MSR engine braking management, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), a Brembo 4-piston monoblock front brake caliper, a beautiful 6.5-inch in-house TFT color display with advanced connectivity, heated grips, and even a system to easily reverse the gearshift direction. Just in case you’d like to take the F 450 R to the track— which we highly doubt.

This array of features will surprise more than a few people. Then, when it comes time to open your wallet, Munich has a knack for tempting you with a few extra treats. You’ll be able to add a shifter to the 4½-R, along with Dynamic Pro riding mode, Sport suspension (mentioned earlier), three additional dashboard themes, or the Easy Ride Clutch. an automatic centrifugal clutch system that eliminates the need for a left-hand lever. Although this system didn’t particularly impress us (personal opinion), it can be a real plus in city traffic.

A top contender in the roadster class?

We’ve been waiting for this F 450 R ever since its cousin, the GS, was released. BMW has a serious contender for the category here, topped off with an attractive introductory price that’s sure to give buyers pause. At 6,750 euros, this bike is barely more expensive than its Kawa or Aprilia competitors. Up against a Chinese model, however, it’s a no-contest.
If you happen to be tempted by versions other than the base Cosmic Black model—and add a handful of options—the F 450 R becomes a BMW again: the banker’s best friend.

M.B. – Manufacturer photos