Motorcycle specifications BMWF 800 R 2009 In the hands of a stunter

in the mid-size segment, there's been nothing to get excited about since 2005. BMW's roadsters since then have been nothing but big, or even skinny. Between the horsepower-packed K 1200 R and the classy R 1200 R (replacement for the R 1150 R), the Munich-based manufacturer's roadster offering was thin on the ground. That's changed with the arrival of the new F 800 R, the Naked version of the F 800 S / ST tandem. A very youthful machine for the brand, with the famous Chris Pfeiffer as its ambassador (and almost creator). But to enter one of the most turbulent (and juicy) markets in motorcycle production, you need to be well armed...

on a physical level, it's hard to remain indifferent or to be ecstatic. Admittedly, it's not in the Street-fighter category, but its very Germanic profile doesn't make you want to laugh. The headlight, taken from the recent 800 GS, gives it a strange look, and the inspiration from the K 1300 R can be glimpsed, but what really bothers us is the abandonment of the single-arm and belt drive for a classic swingarm with chain drive. A real shame.

technically speaking, and apart from the small apostrophe above, Beheme's "middle" roadster is far more interesting. Engine-wise, the twin 800 is a real crowd-pleaser. This engine, first used on the S and ST roadsters (recently tested by Oli the Belgian), has a distinctive profile: its cylinders are inclined at 30°, and the 360° offset engine architecture produces a noise very similar to the Boxer engines of the big BM range. Technologically, the engineers have done their homework: semi-dry sump lubrication, K 1300 mill-inspired cylinder head, dual-throttle injection with innovative fuel flow regulation system, refined engine reengine tuning, a new exhaust system with repositioned catalytic converter and curt muffler, and a re-staggered gearbox with shortened final 3 gears. With its sportier positioning, it's a good idea to use a tighter gear ratio, and make the most of the twin-cylinder's 87 horsepower.

chassis-wise, the R borrows elements from its siblings. Namely, an aluminum perimeter frame where the engine acts as a swingarm mount, thanks to a reinforced housing in the rear section to anchor the swingarm. The telescopic fork is more classic. BMW doesn't often take risks with its medium-displacement models - so a Duolever fork, as found on the K 1300 R, was virtually impossible. But let's not be too intransigent... The F 800 R does come with Brembo brakes, 320 mm dual discs and 4-piston calipers, brake lines, sporty rims and optional ABS.
This new BMW roadster also adopts THE brand's revolution, also present on the new 2009 models (K 1300 S, R, and GT): the new turn signal control. For decades, the Bavarian controls for each indicator were separate and located on either side of the handlebars. No more! BMW has adopted the standard Japanese format, with a single switch on the left-hand side. The seat is slightly lower than on the F 800 S, and can still be lowered as an option. Well, everything is optional at BM. The list below gives you all the possible customizations and accessories on offer - a vertiginous wallet guaranteed.

to further convince young people that this is the model for them, the F 800 R can be kitted out with 34 hp. Except that 21-year-olds don't necessarily have the potential to spend 8,000 euros on a bike, even for the propeller-driven model. At this price, the Behemoth can't compete with the Japanese bikes in the segment, but finds itself in direct competition with the Triumph 675 Street Triple and the Ducati 696 Monster. The F 800 R will be available in alpine white/black, fiery orange or aluminum white... and maybe one day a Chris Pfeiffer Replica version, as we saw at the Milan show ->.