![]() |
|||||||
| features | equipment | accessories | specifications | colors | adventures | calculator | shop |
The most important features of the new BMW F 650 GS at a glance:
- Modern, premium enduro design
- All new chassis with steel tube trellis frame and double sided swingarm and chain drive
- Powerful, torquey parallel twin (798cc with 71hp and 55 lb/ft of torque)
- Good ground reach thanks to a narrow design and low seat heights
- Disengageable ABS and Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) as available options for enhanced safety
Engine
The engine is based on the familiar power unit from the F 800 S/ST: a 798 cc liquid-cooled parallel twin, four valves per cylinder controlled by cam followers. Two overhead cam shafts and a compensating con rod and semi-dry-sump lubrication.
However, for use in an Enduro concept with a long spring travel, the installation position of the engine was modified: the cylinders are now at an angle of only 8.3 degrees (instead of 23.3 degrees in the F 800S/ST). This necessitated some modifications such as a modified lower engine casing, water pump casing, and clutch cover. The modified engine is approximately 2.2 lbs lighter.
The cam shafts have also been modified for a more Enduro friendly power delivery that is consistent, torquey, and easy to control. The valve lift has been reduced from .38 inches to .28 inches, achieving, in conjunction with changes to the valve-timing, a broader and more beginner friendly power curve.
As opposed to the F 800 S/ST, the Enduro features a chain-drive for off-road riding, but the gearing ratio differs at 17/41.
The redesigned, stainless steel exhaust silencer with a matt, brushed finish also emphasizes the premium Enduro look.
As an added bonus not only is the new F 650 GS fun but it also posts excellent fuel mileage. The low consumption figures enable ranges in excess of 186 miles. As an added bonus in these high gas price days, the F 650 GS is designed to use with 87 octane regular fuel!
Transmission
Engine power is transmitted through a close ratio 6-speed gearbox. Gearing is 17/41. The individual ratios are the following:
1st: 2.462:1
2nd 1.750:1
3rd 1.381:1
4th 1.174:1
5th 1.042:1
6th 0.960:1
Frame and Suspension
A new steel frame designed specifically for the GS model, is built as a robust and torsionally rigid steel tube trellis frame. The engine is load-bearing with a reinforced cylinder head to accommodate the mounting points. The rear subframe is made of square section steel tubing and is bolted to the mainframe. The fuel tank is placed below the seat to ensure a low center of gravity for better stability.
The new cast aluminum double swing-arm pivots in the frame. In addition, there is no linkage for the rear shock as it mounts directly to the back of the frame.
Wheels:
Cast Aluminum wheels
Front: 2.50 x 19”
Rear: 3.50 x 17”
Front Wheel Suspension:
Telescopic RWU fork, diameter 41 mm (1.61 inches), spring travel 180 mm (7.09 inches)
Rear Wheel Suspension:
Single mono shock, adjustable spring preload and rebound damping, spring travel 170 mm (6.69 inches)
Brakes
Braking duties are handled by a single disk brake (300mm in diameter) clamped by a double piston calliper. The rear brake utilizes a 265mm single rotor with single piston calliper.
As an option the F 650 GS can be ordered with a disengageable version of the BMW Motorrad ABS. This is the latest generation 2-channel ABS, weighing only 3.3 pounds and requiring limited space. The system uses linearly adjustable intake valves for superior responsiveness as well as wheel sensors which automatically monitor the distance between the sensor and the sensor wheel.
Electronics
The new F 650 GS has the new and innovative CAN bus system. Just as in the other F 800 models, there is a single wire system that reduces the amount of wires used, allows all control devices to be networked, and eliminates fuses. To support the advanced electrical system the bike features a 14 amp hour batter and a 400W alternator.
As with the F 800 S/ST, the instrument cluster contains an analog speedometer, rev counter as well as an information flat screen with the following functionality: odometer display, trip counter, clock, and service display. A photocell automatically switches from daytime to night-time lighting.
The optionally available onboard computer expands the functionality by the following displays: outside temperature, gear, coolant temperature, average fuel consumption, fuel state, remaining range and stopwatch. If you order the TPM option, the display also shows the tire pressure.
Headlight
For night time duties the F 650 GS features an asymmetrical double headlight with plastic cover in a new plastic housing. Two H7 bulbs handle the illumination. Another interesting feature is that when the high beams are turned on, the low beams also illuminate to provide maximum lighting.
Ergonomics
Due to the narrow frame design, the ground reach is effectively lower compared to a wider bike with the same seat height. In addition to the narrow design a low center of gravity, broad foot rests with vibration dampening rubber sleeves and wide enduro-style aluminum handle bar help contribute to easy maneuverability and rider comfort.
Seat Height Comparison (inches):
Standard: 32.3
Low Seat Option: 31.1
Low Suspension Option: 30.1











