Motorcycle specifications BMWF 800 R 2018 La belle saison

The F 800 R is determined to hold its place in the mid-size roadster clan. However, it has to contend with competition that's more duplicitous than ever, and a fratricidal burden that's very much present. The transition to 2017 and adaptation to Euro4 standards are sharpening its teeth a little. The roadster becomes more tempting.

the good news is that there's no loss of power. Its 90 horsepower are still crying out; it's the fuel injection that's changed. The BMW gains a ride-by-wire throttle, for finer throttle response. Above all, this makes it possible to implement Driving Modes, which many Behemoths already have at their disposal. The F 800 R can now be driven "à la carte": a Road mode for everyday use, a Rain mode for tricky conditions. And if you feel like dipping into the optional bag of tricks, a Dynamic mode is designed to make riding sportier.

more anecdotally, the bike has benefited from engineering work to give its exhaust a facelift and enhance the instrument panel (redesigned dials, engine trouble indicator, riding mode display). Next up is a roadster that's both serious and mischievous:

the F 800 R - It combines several roles: versatile roadster, and BMW's entry-level model. It leaves the fury to the S 1000 R and the notoriety to the R 1200 R. It's only a short step from there to a slight frustration of identity. So she decides to change her look. What to do with those asymmetrical eyes, symbol of the BMW house and source of both light and questions? It's time to forget about them, to make way for a more aggressive and prominent block. A certain influence from the face of the Husqvarna 900 Nuda, a short-lived cousin. And the teenage crisis concludes with tank scoops (the fake one) that conquer fresher air on the front of the machine. At the rear and under the seat, the fuel filler flap is still in full effect, allowing you to fill the (real) tank under the seat. Rebellion is also present where you least expect it: on the dashboard. Everyone's succumbing to the digital trend. But the F 800 R has kept two good needle-type units to indicate rpm and speed. A digital window rounds out the information available. When classic becomes original...

Equipped with a 798 cm3 parallel twin, the F 800 R wanted a little more power to make its mark. So, in 2015, the engine-makers gave it 3 extra horses. The 90 hp obtained at the same 8,000 rpm, and the 8.8 mkg of torque perched at 'only' 5,800 rpm, were not the only ones to offer more response. The first two gear ratios were shortened, offering more robust acceleration. Not lazy, willing and available, this block will satisfy many a driver in all situations, but it still lacks a handful of horsepower to challenge the segment's top performers. It is also available in A2 version, with power reduced to 35 kW (48 bhp) and torque reduced to 7.1 mkg.

the front end is more spirited. As if to match the fervor of the optical block, the steering is entrusted to an inverted fork. This gives the little BM greater rigidity and precision. This is continued and confirmed at the bottom of the same fork, with the adoption of radial-mount brake calipers.
The rest of the chassis remains unchanged, with aluminum perimeter frame, engine-mounted swingarm and monoshock. The latter can be reinforced with ESA as an option. With a click of the button, the electronics set it to Normal, Comfort or Sport mode. It's a pity that the fork is not included. The roadster can also be fitted with optional ASC traction control. ABS, on the other hand, comes as standard.

pleasant to ride right from the start, the F 800 R has refined its ergonomics with new handlebars and footrests.10 mm lower than the previous generation. A touch of relaxation for the legs. The seat has been lowered to 790 mm (-10 mm), making it more accessible to smaller riders. But if this seat height doesn't suit you, there's plenty of scope for adjusting it as an option, especially as a raised handlebar adds to the catalog list.

With a little mischievousness to contrast with its German-like rigor and versatility, the F 800 R asserts itself, then its evolution confirms its good manners. Pricing remains focused on the entry-level segment, allowing you to buy a roadster bearing the Bavarian stamp for the same price as other mid-size roadsters. The F 800 R, on the other hand, boasts a far more extensive list of options, which can push the bill beyond the 5-figure mark.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos