BMW has unveiled entirely new, middleweight adventure machines in the form of the F 750 GS and F 850 GS. Featuring the same engine displacement of 853cc, the F 750 GS has been tuned to produce a peak of 77 horsepower, while the F 850 GS ups that considerably to 95 horsepower.
Virtually everything is new with these two bikes. Take a look at the following press release, as well as the excellent video below for all of the details:
Ever since their debut in 2007, the GS models of the F series have stood for premium riding enjoyment with typical ‘Made by BMW Motorrad’ features, representing the middle-class Adventure segment. As before, the GS abbreviation again represents a perfect synthesis of touring and long-distance capability combined with sporty dynamics and supreme offroad performance. In short: A BMW GS is the perfect companion when it comes to discovering remote corners of the world by motorcycle. After around ten years of consistent model development, BMW Motorrad has now fully redesigned and reengineered its middle-class GS models in line with its objective of creating an ultimate riding machine that is even more uncomplicated and carefree, whether used for sport-oriented road riding, on tour complete with luggage and a passenger, or on an adventure trip into offroad terrain.
Even more so than their predecessor models, the new F 750 GS and F 850 GS are targeted squarely at their respective clientele. The F 750 GS is designed for all riders who prefer the sensation and conceptual design of a travel enduro in combination with a low seat height, copious power availability, high cost-effectiveness, and powerful all-round qualities. Opposite this is the new F 850 GS, which besides offering more power and torque, features even more distinctive touring characteristics coupled with supreme offroad ability.
Powerful, new 2-cylinder in-line engine with two counterbalance shafts and a firing interval of 270/450 degrees for optimised smoothness and emotional sound.
The main development focus was to create an increase in both power and torque. In addition, special attention was given to reducing fuel consumption levels. Displacement is 853 cc and the power output of 57 kW (77 hp) at 7500 rpm generated by the F 750 GS is more than sufficient. The new F 850 GS generates 70 kW (95 hp) at 8250 rpm which translates to a supreme level of engine power.
The developers achieved a powerful and emotionally appealing sound by employing a crankshaft with a 90 degree journal offset and a 270/450 degree firing interval. Unwanted vibrations are absorbed by the new engine’s two counterbalance shafts. A self-amplifying, anti-hopping clutch provides a discernible reduction in the hand clutch operating force while the drop in engine drag torque also enhances safety on the road. Power transmission to the rear wheel comes from the 6-speed gearbox with secondary drive that is now positioned on the left-hand side.
The riding modes ‘Road’ and ‘Rain’ plus ABS and ASC ensure plenty of riding enjoyment and enhanced safety as standard. Pro riding modes are available as optional equipment.
The new GS models address individual rider requirements by offering ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes, while the combination of BMW Motorrad ABS and the ASC automatic stability control ensures a high level of safety.
The F 750 GS and F 850 GS can be fitted ex works with optional equipment, such as Pro riding modes and in turn the additional ‘Dynamic’, ‘Enduro’ and ‘Enduro Pro’ riding modes (the latter only available in the F 850 GS) as well as the DTC dynamic traction control and banking capable ABS Pro.
New steel bridge frame in monocoque construction, optimised suspension geometry and new fuel tank position.
The bridge frame of the new GS models in the F series is made of deep-drawn, welded components. It integrates the 2-cylinder in-line engine as a co-supporting element and offers benefits in terms of torsional rigidity and robustness. The fuel tank has been placed in the classic position between the seat bench and the steering head, for optimised packaging and an improved centre of gravity.
Sharper GS profile thanks to the more masculine design.
The F 750 GS and F 850 GS also feature a completely new look, which benefits from a more dynamic and masculine design. In addition to the basic version, the new F models are also available in Exclusive style variations. The Rallye style variant is exclusive to the new F 850 GS and places particular emphasis on its offroad capabilities.
Unique range of optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad accessories.
The new GS models of the F series are being launched with a range of equipment options that is unique for the middle class. Be it the different seat heights and windshields, the new full LED headlight, the optional Connectivity equipment with TFT display or eCall, the list of fascinating features with which owners can maximise their riding enjoyment and safety as well as experience the thrill of the road is now virtually inexhaustible for middle class travel enduro motorcycles.
Highlights of the new BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS:
- Powerful 2-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 853 cc. F 750 GS: 57 kW (77 hp) at 7500 rpm and 83 Nm at 6000 rpm. F 850 GS: 70 kW (95 hp) at 8250 rpm and 92 Nm at 6250 rpm.
- Extremely powerful and emotional sound, produced by a crankshaft journal offset of 90 degrees and firing interval of 270/450 degrees.
- New, robust steel bridge frame in monocoque construction for increased riding precision.
- New telescopic fork/upside-down telescopic fork plus double-sided aluminium swinging arm with central spring strut for more sensitive response characteristics.
- ABS, ASC plus ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes included as standard.
- Pro riding modes with ABS Pro and dynamic brake light, DTC and the new riding modes ‘Dynamic’, ‘Enduro’ and ‘Enduro Pro’ (the latter only with the F 850 GS) available as optional equipment ex works.
- ESA electronic suspension adjustment available as optional equipment.
- A self-amplifying, anti-hopping clutch for a discernible reduction in hand clutch operating force.
- Full LED headlight incl. LED daytime running light as optional equipment.
- Connectivity with multi-functional instrument cluster and 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display plus numerous features as optional equipment.
- Intelligent emergency call function now offered for the first time as optional equipment for the middle class.
- Optimised offroad and travel ability plus improved wind and weather protection.
- Sharper GS profile resulting from new design.
- New colour concepts and style variations Rallye and Exclusive.
- A range of optional equipment and accessories that is unique in the middle class, such as Keyless Ride, Gear shift assistant Pro, Dynamic ESA, eCall, Connectivity etc.
See more of MD’s great photography:
Is it me or do the spokes on both types of wheels look kinda thin?
Having owned a F800R can’t say it was vibratory other than in the mirrors at certain revs, it had brilliant low rev torque (much more so than my current Street Triple) that always made me grin like a maniac… now it has dumped the dummy con-rod in favour of two balance shafts which has to be less efficient. I generally like 180 degree crank vertical twins with a single balancer to take care of the vibes (actually torque reaction along the crank as they are otherwise balanced out naturally) but was converted by the F800R’s character and playfulness that made other twins seem somehow toylike. Be interesting to ride the F850GT when it turns up with the new engine layout but suspect I will be more interested in the effect the new model has on the prices of recent F800GT’s…
Nicely done by BMW, that new F850 looks absolutely gorgeous (and sounds great from the videos I’ve seen).
Very nice looking bikes. I like how they make an effort for a low seat height.
Personally I love the looks of the F 850 GS and will definitely take a closer look if I decide to unload my Tiger 800. So many new bikes that I’m salivating over.
Tiger giving you issues JimJim? These Beemers appear to be nice bikes, but I can’t see giving up the nice triple for one.
Or are you trying to appease your BMW buddies? Lol
Btw how is fickle pickle doing? I invited him out to play Wed and Thur and he gave me excuses. GUess I need to buy a Beemer to fit in.
No issues, I just like new stuff every once in awhile…lol. Actually I’m very content with both the Tiger and the RT, I may never buy a new bike. My wife doesn’t enjoy riding much anymore and I don’t like riding 2-up anyway so may just purchase a nice sports car when I retire in 3 years.
Rode with the fickle pickle a few weeks ago, that’s a nice GS he has.
It must have cost a fortune to develop emotional sound.
Pretty vanilla when compared to the KTM 790.
And probably will cost 2k More .
Vanilla is a best-selling flavor.
Least inspiring bikes of all the new releases.
Agreed. The 850 just looks like a cynical Africa Twin knock off, even down to the colour scheme.
I wonder if all you people arguing that 55 HP in the Moto Guzzi V9 is plenty will opt for the “750” version of this bike, since it’s 77 HP ought to be well into your danger zones.
As “DH” made observation. A new 850 GT/ST version, forthcoming ? Drop the required belt drive maintenance schedule. Final drive, shaft or chain. Nothing wrong with the belt drive except the replacement schedule.
Let me add “AMEN” to that
In English (American or otherwise) a sound can’t be emotional.
Tell that to Stevie Ray Vaughan.
I tried, but he didn’t return my text.
Awwwwww (was that an emotional sound?)
If so Yahoooooo
Yes. Only a sentient being can “be emotional.” But sound can and does stir emotions, and an emotional response, in sentient beings.
Pretty good looking in my opinion, but calling one a 750 and one an 850 when they have the same displacement if goofy (as in the past with BMW)..and why two different hps? Put the same motor in both, same hp, same same. If you want the lower seat height gold one you lose 18 hp? what???
and if they are any good, I will make the “emotional sound” …in my helmet.
My only defense for the misleading “750” moniker is that BMW has done this before.
IIRC, the reason for the different power specs is for riders that don’t want the extra power, and for markets where the power spec affects insurance cost and licensing difficulty.
That makes sense on the power. Sometimes we forget it’s a global world with differing rules.
I know BMW did it before, it was goofy then too.
Hey mickey you sacrificed horsepower when you bought a low seat height CB1100…LOL
Final price?
More than I’m willing to pay for a middle-weight adv. bike…
And weight?
Two items every press release seems prone to omit.
Compared to other brands, the BMW ownership experience, the quality of dealers in general, the selection of parts, especially factory clothing and accessories, is infinitely better.
If you are not value-conscious, I suppose you’re right. Me, I buy low-mileage, pre-depreciated Japanese bikes off craigslist that give me no mechanical trouble. Parts are cheap and I can do most of the maint. myself. I no longer even bother with valve-checks….Still, some people like to spend $ for the ‘brand experience’
maybe they will breathe life into the F800GT??
They should have released a new version (F850GT) along with these. I would have definitely given it a very close look for my next purchase.
That face though…
If the numerical designation isn’t even close to the actual displacement then what purpose does it serve? Have to laugh; they don’t have a slipper clutch- they have an anti-hopping clutch.
Norm beat me to it. It’s a 180 degree crank. It just sounds fancy when you call it “270/450 firing order. Just like a 1968 Honda CB350. Only then, we called it a “180 degree” crank – back before the “new math.”
Get off my lawn!
Ummm, no. Offset by 90 degrees is correct. This would then mimic a 90 degree V-twin with a single crank pin – a 270/450 firing order.
If it’s a 90 degree crank, why doesn’t BMW just say that? I guess it isn’t cool to just explain the kinematics anymore. My point about the new math is confirmed. It’s just hyperbole.
In the article it says “a crankshaft journal offset of 90 degrees and firing interval of 270/450 degrees.” What is there not to understand about that…. Do you realize there are 360 degrees in one revolution. The two crank journals are at a right angle to each other – 90 DEGREES or 1/4 of a revolution.
See, it could have said offset by 90 degrees and a firing order of 90 and 630… Which would be nearly like a single, huh?
D’oh!!
I guess i should have read the article, and not just Norm’s post. I didn’t read, therefore didn’t see the 90 degree journal offset statement.
Facepalm.
I’ll slowly walk away now, head bowed in shame, on my own lawn. Kids, feel free to play on the lawn.
and to clarify, the old kit was a 360 crank. ie. both pistons were put on TDC/BDC with a center dummy rod for balance. the droning engine note mimicking a boxer (while simultaneously going unloved by VLJ) was then achieved via 180 staggered cam timing, that is while one cylinder was on TDC compression the other was on TDC exhaust.
viola, flat twin exhaust note.
personally i thought it a was rather brilliant solution for retaining the familiar BMW sound without the radial bulk, but it seems even Munich grew tired of it. seems everybody’s now chasing Yamaha’s TDM around the block.
Sounds like they made a concerted effort to address the old 800’s most glaring faults: excessive engine vibration; a flat, boring, droning engine note; a rather pansy-ish overall look.
This new 270-degree, dual-counterbalanced mill ought to sound and feel great.
Good deal.
Can’t really find much to complain about with these new ones, other than the stupid beak. Gawd, those things are horrible. Otherwise, this looks to be a very capable, versatile, fun, comfortable motorcycle.
Hopefully it won’t be priced out of serious consideration for most people.
“excessive engine vibration”
Really ?? Always praised the 800 i had bc there was absolutely no vibration in any rpm.
The 1200 yes, a lot.
One man’s “smooth” is another man’s “vibrates”.
Every review of the old 800 mentions the annoying engine vibration. It’s a nearly universal criticism, along with the droning engine note.
Because, when you are comparing to BMWs previous middleweight – the K75, everything else has excessive vibration.
Multi-bike comparos involving various models from different manufacturers is where “the motor is too buzzy” complaint regarding the BMW 800 is always listed.
Yes, my K75 had one of the most pleasantly smooth motors extant, IMO. But my VF700S was similarly smooth if not more so, and would eat its lunch performance wise.
But indeed, the F800GS I rented buzzed like a chain saw, knawt fun! Wore me out on a day ride.
re: “Extremely powerful and emotional sound, produced by a crankshaft journal offset of 90 degrees and firing interval of 270/450 degrees.”
ok now i see why the redesign (sayeth the blind man)…
the old kit was cranked to mimic the sound of the flat twin GS.