Mention a famous band and most of us can name the lead singer. Some gurus might know the band’s other members, but even the most enthusiastic fan will struggle to recall the names of the backing vocalists. It’s a shame really, as these voices add to the harmonies and choruses that helped make the band’s songs and lead singer famous in the first place. The BMW F 800 R suffers from “backing vocalist syndrome”.
While R 1200 GS and the S 1000 RR are the well-known frontmen for BMW Motorrad, the band, um, brand’s success has a lot to do with the many other offerings in its stable and the F 800 R is a case in point.
Earlier this year it received a mild facelift that not only included headlamp- and other cosmetic upgrades, but also lower first and second gear ratios for faster get-up-and-go ability, as well as “upside down” front forks to aid handling. In terms of styling, the F 800 R is devoid of much bodywork, but this modern, streetfighter look is part of its charm.
Getting on the bike is easy with a minimal stretch for the bars that results in an upright, but comfortable riding position – perfect for attacking the urban jungle. Punch the starter button and the familiar 798 cm3 parallel-twin engine (it also does duty in the F 800 GS range) awakens with a low growl. This flat soundtrack is thanks to a 360-degree firing order and is quite vibey throughout the rev range. Highlights of this mill include the immediate torque response and the way it builds power right up to (and beyond) the red line.
With 66 kW pushing 207 kg, the F 800 R was never going to scare the superbike fraternity, but we were surprised with the ease it dipped below four seconds during zero to 100 km/h performance testing (best time was 3,77 seconds). The lower gear ratios and torquey engine are perfectly balanced to provide fast getaways without alarming the rider, which is a boon in congested traffic conditions.
Our fuel consumption measurement during the test period came to 5,0L/100 km, but riding with more restraint than we did will definitely lower this figure. Housed under the seat, the petrol tank helps lower the centre of gravity, but it is a pity that the “traditional tank” is not utilised as a storage facility (as is the case with our Honda NC750 long-termer).
Cape Town experienced its first proper cold snap during the bike’s evaluation, which obligated us to negotiate corners at a gingerly pace. Even so, the F 800 R turned-in crisply and mid-corner stability was good. Its suspension setup is sufficiently comfortable and has a slightly sportier edge, plus the twin Brembo brake setup did a good job of slowing the bike’s momentum (ABS is a welcome safety net on slippery roads). The lack of a windscreen, however, means the rider has no protection from the elements at speed, which hampers long distance touring comfort in
low ambient temperatures.
This machine will appeal to commuters who prefer a road bike over motorcycling’s current craze, “the adventure bike”, as well as those who will appreciate the advantages of the F 800 R’s impressive on-road handling and perform-ance capabilities.
The F 800 R may not enjoy the spotlight once enjoyed by its more famous stablemates, but this is one BMW that has the attributes to step into the limelight and take a well-
deserved bow.
