BMW’s all-new 2020 F 900 R naked bike (starting at $8,995) certainly made an impression on us during its official US press ride introduction in Santa Barbara, California (learn more in the 2020 BMW F 900 R Review First Ride). And after logging a few hundred more miles on this Berlin-built motorcycle we’re even bigger fans of it, especially for around-town commuting.
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In spite of its relatively hefty 465-pound curb weight, the F 900 R impresses with athletic handling. It goes around low-speed bends better than it should for a motorcycle of its size, plus the suspenders filter the effects of worn pavement well. Much of the credit goes to its well-calibrated suspension components, which are some of the best we’ve sampled on a production streetbike at this price point. Bridgestone’s awesome Battlax S21 rubber further complements the handling-offering track-grade grip and sure-footed stability at speed.
We’re equally mesmerized with the character and power dynamic of the 895cc parallel twin. It combines the best features of a traditional V-twin, including punchy-feeling bottom-end torque, with the intrinsic rumble and rowdy intake roar that makes this configuration so lovable. Yet the engine is much more compact, which aids in packaging and reduces weight and complexity.
The engine drinks fuel from a 3.4-gallon fuel tank, which could be bigger. On a side note, the F 900 XR version gets an extra 0.7-gallon capacity. During spirited riding we netted a 38-mpg average. This nets a range of 129.2 miles. A super-slick-looking 6.5-inch color display keeps tabs on machine vitals and is manipulated via Motorrad’s signature multifunction wheel--a feature introduced on the premium K 1600 GTL eight years ago. Furthemore, the display can be paired via Bluetooth with the free BMW Motorrad Connected iOS app, which allows turn-by-turn navigation.
Other creature comforts include a cozy and well-supportive rider and passenger saddle. and the ability to adjust all of the control surfaces (levers, brake pedal, and handlebar). The rider can also choose between two global riding modes (Rain and Street). For a $350 upcharge, riders can access Ride Mode’s Dynamic and Dynamic Pro settings that enable IMU-powered automatic stability control and ABS. Bold LED lighting with optional corner functionality makes the R-bike especially friendly for night rides.
Riders who desire a fun and capable around-town naked bike will be pleased with the F 900 R. Factor in its ultra-high build quality and careful attention to subtle details, like the angled tire valve stems and braided steel brake lines, and you have a motorcycle that looks and rides much better than you’d anticipate based on MSRP.
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Video/edit: @AdamWaheed
Photography: Kevin Wing
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30 мар 2020
