We thought the big 2024 adventure news from Germany was limited to the arrival of the new R 1300 GS, but BMW has even more planned for next year. The company has updated its middleweight adventure bikes, to take on the tough competition this category has seen developing over the recent years.
The new BMW F 900 GS, F 900 GS Adventure and F 800 GS will go head-to-head with the likes of Triumph’s Tiger 900 range, the KTM 790 and 890 Adventure, Ducati Multistrada V2 and the Desert X, and plenty of others.
These new models are essentially updated versions of the current F 750 GS, F 850 GS and F 850 GS Adventure, although the updates are pretty impressive. Starting with the engine, the inline two-cylinder motor is now bigger (895cc compared to 853cc), and produces more power. The 900s reach a claimed 77kW (105bhp) at 8,500 rpm and 93 Nm at 6,750 rpm. The ‘800’ uses the same engine but has a little less poke, with 64kW (87hp) at 6,750 rpm and 91 Nm at 6,750 rpm. It also comes as a 35kW (48hp) version for A2 licence holders. The new engine features the popular 270 degrees firing intervals, and keeps things steady with two counter-rotating balance shafts.
Two riding modes, Rain and Road, as well as ABS Pro and DTC are available on all models as standard, with more ride modes, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and engine drag torque control as optional equipment.
Rider comfort has been improved, with numerous seat options, and adjustable gearshift lever, while life with the bike can be made even easier with additional extras such as keyless key, emergency call, and a host of other accessories.
The F 900 GS has been on a diet, and lost 14kg compared to the previous model. It features a lighter plastic tank and several new body parts to make this happen. The fully adjustable Showa forks are new too, as is the lightweight swingarm. The whole rear of the bike is not only new but lighter too. A cherry on top of the diet cake is the Akrapovič silencer as standard.
If you want to seriously hit the dirt, the new F 900 GS can be equipped with an ex-works Enduro Pro package containing fully adjustable titanium nitride-coated upside-down telescopic forks, fully adjustable central spring strut, handlebar risers and M Endurance chain.
The F 900 GS Adventure also features new fully adjustable USD forks, LED headlights, new side panels, heated grips, and aluminium engine guard.
The baby of the pack, the BMW F 800 GS also gets a TFT display, heated grips, LED headlight and hand protectors. It also features a ‘Variocase’ carrier, facilitating the fitment of panniers which are adjustable, allowing narrower side cases for city riding with larger capacity options for touring.
The Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) electronic suspension is available as optional equipment for the new F 900 GS Adventure and the F 800 GS.
BMW calls the new bikes “premium mid-range touring enduros” which are suitable for off-road, touring and adventure.
Prices and availability haven’t been announced yet, but more detail can be found on the BMW website.