All-new, the middleweight class BMW F650GS seems destined to show up in a movie some day- whether it be a villain riding after the intrepid hero, or the other way around, the BMW F650GS just seems to have that presence- of something dramatic, fun, and action-packed. The BMW F650GS has so much versatility that it can be difficult to know where to begin to sing of this motorcycle’s praises. As a trainer motorcycle, the BMW F650GS leaves room for the rider to grow, while making that same rider reluctant to let go. Whether they long for the adventure of the open road, an unmarked fire road, or no road at all, the BMW F650GS has the versatility to get them there. The attraction doesn’t stop there, however. With clean, fluid lines, the BMW F650GS seems at once ready to pounce, and completely at ease, attaining a level of refinement not often seen in a middleweight class motorcycle.
At the heart of the 2009 BMW F650GS is a 71 horsepower, water cooled two-cylinder engine. Advanced electronics such as a digital engine management system and electronic intake pipe injection ensure that the power is available for the reported 115 Mph top speed. Dual overhead camshafts and dry sump lubrication, chain final drive, and a multi-disc oil bath clutch with a six-speed transmission ensure the BMW F650GS’ reliability, and regular unleaded fuel fillips mean that you won’t be spending as much at the pump as you would with some of the higher-end BMW motorcycles.
The 2009 BMW F650GS features a tubular steel space frame in which the engine (like on other BMW motorcycles,) is a load-bearing member to help reduce overall weight. A telescopic fork gives the front suspension 7.1 inches of travel while a continuously variable spring-preload rear suspension gives its rider 6.7 inches of travel at the end of the BMW F650GS’ cast aluminum dual side swingarm. Braking for the BMW F650GS is handled by single discs both front and back, with the front end receiving a dual-piston floating caliper with a 300mm disc, and a 265mm disc out back with a single piston floating caliper. One of the available systems on this BMW, as with others, is the BMW Motorrad ABS system which can be switched on and off, helpful for differentiating between on-road riding and off-road.
With an MSRP of just $8,995, the 2009 BMW F650GS presents a tempting entry into the world of high-end motorcycling, and with many options to choose from, chances are that the 2009 BMW F650GS could be the ultimate first motorcycle. Optional extras include: Lowered suspension, heated grips, ABS, tire pressure monitor, on-board computer, clear turn signals, alarm system, center stand, and a plethora of available parts and apparel from the BMW catalog. All the rider has to do is decide whether to spring for them all at once, or collect them one at a time.
