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If you expected a roadster version of BMW’s popular 800 twin, here it is. BMW claims power has been boosted versus the F 800 S and that other technical improvements are incorporated. Here is the press release from BMW.
BMW Motorrad has unveiled the latest model in its F 800 series, launching the sporting new F 800 R at the EICMA 2008 Milan Motorcycle Show. This highly distinctive new roadster, a naked BMW bike in the mid-market segment, has been designed to deliver uncompromising handling, agility and steering precision, as well as maximum riding enjoyment. Alongside the K 1300 R, this is the second BMW roadster to be launched this year.
The F 800 R is set to be launched in May 2009 at an on-the-road price expected to be sub-£6000. It is fitted with a parallel twin engine with 4-valve technology and a capacity of 798 cc – already familiar to the F 800 S – but with power uprated to 87hp. The in-line 2-cylinder engine is already class-leading, with its strong pulling power, spontaneous response and low fuel consumption.
Closely based on the design of the BMW K 1300 R, the distinctively sporty F 800 R possesses considerable sprinting power. The shorter gear ratios from fourth to sixth gear provide faster acceleration, while the excellent pulling power of the two-cylinder engine delivers agile performance.
The new F 800 R is also fitted with a new double-sided swingarm. Constructed from a light alloy cast, the design of the swingarm highlights the dynamic characteristic of the new F 800 R, especially at the rear. Final drive is by an ‘O’ ring chain.
But the new F 800 R boasts more than just sporting talent: in the very best BMW tradition, it also possesses classic virtues such as outstanding seating comfort for rider and pillion passenger, as well as exemplary levels of safety. For example, the F 800 R is available with an ABS system whose newly developed pressure sensor provides an even finer regulation and therefore even greater safety.
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BMW has also paid special attention to quality details in the immediate field of vision of the rider. In addition to re-drawing the faces of the instrument panel, the upper fork bridge with steering stem clamps, milled covering caps and butted handle bars are finished to a very high standard.
Additional accessory parts, including the sport windshield, radiator trim panels, a pillion passenger cover and an engine spoiler, can also be added to further individualise the F 800 R.
Tony Jakeman, BMW Motorrad UK Marketing Manager, said: “BMW Motorrad recently struck out on a new path into medium category motorcycles with the F 800 series, originally launched in 2006. The first model variation was the sporty F 800 S, followed by the F 800 ST with its touring capabilities. The F 800 GS and the F 650 GS, two dynamic enduro models in the very best BMW Motorrad GS tradition, then followed. The F 800 R is a logical expansion of our F 800 series, adding an urban edge to our ever growing range of models.”