BMW F 900 GS comes fresh from the gym

Almost completely new motorcycle
BMW F 900 GS comes fresh from the gym

The mid-range travel enduro BMW F 850 ​​GS has become the F 900 GS. The moderately successful Pummelchen has made strong gains, particularly in the “Dynamics” discipline.

Together with its sister model F 850 ​​GS Adventure, the BMW F 850 ​​GS, which was discontinued at the end of last year, had been in the shadows for a long time: agile competing models such as the Honda Transalp, the Honda Africa Twin, but especially the KTM 790/890 Adventure were more powerful and more attractive, so that it fell out of the list of the 50 most sought-after motorcycles in Germany.

The model revision, which was due anyway, did not result in a mere update of the 850, but in an almost completely new motorcycle. The BMW 900 GS lost 14 kilograms, gained 10 horsepower and became significantly more manageable and dynamic.

The BMW F 900 GS can already see its lengthy stay in the white and blue gym when it is stationary: it has become significantly slimmer and has a significantly shorter rear. The steep windshield, together with the narrow 21-inch front wheel and the long suspension travel, are somewhat reminiscent of the front sections of successful rally enduros.

The parallel twin, which has increased displacement and power, now delivers 77 kW/105 hp (previously 70 kW/95 hp), as well as a lot of pulling power at lower speeds with 93 Newton meters. The high-revving engine does not need to be squeezed constantly because the torque curve has become significantly fuller across the entire speed range and, thanks to the considerable weight loss, less mass has to be accelerated. Two counter-rotating balancer shafts ensure the elimination of harmful vibrations.

The sound of the engine is also impressive: thanks to the 90 degree crank pin offset and 270/450 degree ignition distance, it is very reminiscent of a 90 degree V2 engine. The standard Akrapovič rear silencer not only supports the acoustics, but also contributes to weight savings at 1.7 kilos. The main share in this regard is 4.5 kilograms in the new 14.5 liter plastic tank.

Completely new chassis

The chassis of the nine hundred is completely new: at the front there is a new USD fork sourced from Showa with an impressive 23 centimeters of travel, all parameters of which can be adjusted to individual needs, without tools. The aluminum two-arm swing arm is also more powerful and also 250 grams lighter.

If you value additional reserves on the chassis side and want to be active off-road, you should order the Enduro Pro package: a more powerful fork, a fully adjustable shock absorber, a handlebar riser and the low-maintenance M Endurance drive chain are delivered for 1,475 euros. Semi-active chassis elements are not available for the 900, but they are not missed either.

When you're on country and mountain roads, the F 900 GS delivers impressive performance: it steers easily, holds its course stably even on uneven roads despite long suspension travel, and provides an overall convincing driving experience. The lean angle-optimized traction control works sensitively, gear changes are smooth and precise, not least because of a new, adjustable shift lever.

The optional shift assistant for clutchless shifting also left a good impression. The enduro footrests ensure good grip off-road, and the ergonomics are now ideal for riding while standing. The fact that the much more powerful suspension elements at the front and rear can perform well on both hard and sandy terrain benefits the driving pleasure.

Fast, safe driving requires perfect brakes. Significant improvements can also be noted here. The tricky balancing act between strong grip on the road and fine control when driving off-road is well achieved. The dynamic package installed on the test motorcycle (495 euros) is recommended because the high off-road capabilities of the mid-range GS cannot otherwise be used sensibly. It's a shame that it's not part of the standard equipment.

Equipment significantly more extensive

Nevertheless, the equipment has become considerably more extensive: not only is the already mentioned Akrapovič exhaust part of the standard equipment, but there are also high-quality hand protectors, three-way adjustable heated grips, an LED headlight that illuminates the road better and the very powerful 6.5 Inch TFT display from the large Boxer GS. This includes all connectivity options.

If you are more touring-oriented and plan to do a lot of pillion rides, the new “jumping field” qualities of the F 900 GS might make you think: Do pillion rides and this pronounced dynamic still go together?

Anyone who doubts this should take a look at the F 900 GS Adventure, which has also been revised: with a larger tank and more space for passengers and luggage, it offers increased travel qualities while maintaining the same weight as before. With the development of the F 900 GS, BMW has simply increased the gap between it and its adventure sister.

BMW F 900 GS – technical data

• engine: Liquid-cooled two-cylinder in-line engine, four valves per cylinder, DOHC, 895 cc displacement, 77 kW/105 hp at 8500 rpm, 93 Nm at 6500 rpm; Injection, 6 gears, chain
• landing gear: Steel bridge frame in shell construction, supporting engine; front USD telescopic fork, diameter 43 mm, 23 cm travel, fully adjustable; rear aluminum two-arm swing arm, WAD central spring strut, 21.5 cm travel, rebound damping and preload adjustable; cross-spoke wheels; Tires 90/90-21 (front) and 150/70 R 17 (rear). 30.5 cm double disc brake at the front, 26.5 cm single disc brake at the rear
• Assistance systems: Switchable ABS with lean angle functions, dynamic, lean angle-optimized traction control, two driving modes (Rain and Road), LED headlights, automatic. Indicator reset, anti-hopping clutch (ex works dynamic package with, among other things, driving modes Pro and shift assistant, also cruise control, keyless start system, tire pressure monitoring, intelligent emergency call, etc.)
• mass and weight: Wheelbase 1.585 m, seat height 87 cm, weight ready to drive 219 kg; Tank capacity 14.5 l
• Driving performance: 0-100 km/h approx. 3.8 s, maximum speed over 200 km/h. Standard consumption according to EU5 4.4 l/100 km, test consumption 4.5 l/100 km
• Colors and availability: Black, Yellow/Red, GS Trophy (Blue/Red/White); from spring 2024
• Price: from 13,750 euros