2006 BMW F650 GS

The BMW F650 GS - the versatile enduro;

An entry-level motorcycle priced from £5,355 on the road does not usually equate to the choice of experts. And it didn't. until BMW launched the "original" F650 GS. The simplicity of the machine appealed to everyone - simplicity in design, maintenance, and riding. But simplicity cannot hide functionality. The new F650 GS is not just an easy motorcycle to ride; it is serious equipment for off-road experts. The GS is as comfortable on tarmac as it is on dirt and is used on BMW's award-winning Off-Road Skills courses.

Entering their fifth model year, the extremely successful F650 GS and F650 GS Dakar machines have been updated on a number of technical points and features. The objectives being to optimise rider protection from wind and weather and to improve ergonomics for even better handling and control.

A singular engine;

In the past, many motorcycles with single-cylinder engines vibrated, leaked oil and were extremely unsophisticated. BMW changed all that and exploded many myths in the process. The original characteristic of high torque at low revs was retained, enhanced and improved for 2004.

A major innovation in the new model year is the introduction of dual ignition on all single-cylinder F650 models in accordance with future emission standards and regulations. Introduction of dual ignition comes together with a new system of engine management: BMS-C II (BMW Motor System).

The results of this improved technology is a significant decrease in exhaust emissions, improvements in riding comfort and engine response, as well as a reduction of fuel consumption to an even lower level than before. Indeed, the improvement of fuel economy over the former model is between six per cent (88.3 mpg at a steady 90 km/h) and 14 per cent (65.7 mpg at a steady 120 km/h).

Peak output (50 hp) and torque figures (60 Nm) remain the same, but with maximum torque occurring at a lower engine speed. The second spark plug for dual ignition is on the right side of the combustion chamber, igniting at exactly the same time as the main plug in the middle. As on BMW's flat-twin power units, this ensures smooth and stable flame formation - even under unfavourable operating conditions.

The mufflers are modified in their internal structure and the catalytic converter has been further improved to reduce emissions to an even lower level.

Going to town;

The legendary engine, which also powers BMW's F650 CS street bike, is not the sole reason for the GS's smooth and relaxed riding characteristics. There are other factors.

Snatch-free progress, even at the lowest possible revs, is a tribute to the reliable five-speed gearbox, chain-drive transmission and light-feel clutch. The 17.3 litre (3.8 gal) fuel tank is located under the rider's seat and significantly lowers the F650 GS's centre of gravity. Combining this with a generous lock and tight turning circle improves balance, enhances manoeuvrability and makes the GS one of the easiest and most stress-free motorcycles for town and city riding.

By taking advantage of BMW's ergonomic options, the 780 mm seat height can be adjusted to provide a more personalised riding position. Lowering the seat by 30 mm is a no-cost factory option. Alternatively, it is possible to have the seat raised by 40 mm - an optional extra - to provide a more practical seating position for taller riders. No other motorcycle in its class offers the same degree of adaptability as the F650 GS.

Design and body;

The updated F650 GS's change in design creates an even closer and more direct relationship with the GS family. The front mudguard now resembles that seen on the new R1200 GS, the new air vent panel and logo plate, the updated screen and the larger headlight gives both models in the F650 GS range an even more distinctive, impressive look. A small but interesting point is that the air vent panel and logo plate generate under pressure with the wind rushing by which directs the flow of warm air away from the oil tank.

The new, improved windscreens on both models, provide better rider protection from wind and weather. When riding off-road, the rider may of course remove them completely. As before, the screen on the F650 Dakar is larger and darker in colour and is now also available on the GS as a transparent version, offered as special equipment.

The luggage rack is newly designed and allows the rider to fit the top case without an interim plate in between. Openings in the luggage rack serve to fasten lashing belts, and the storage compartment flap is stronger and more stable than before. The well-known variable cases fit perfectly also on the new models, whereas the former top case no longer fits due to the modified connection points.

New headlights, instruments and electrical system;

The new headlight has a larger lens providing even more illumination of the road ahead. Illumination to the side has also been improved by using a free-form reflector in conjunction with the clear glass cover.

The instrument cluster now has a sharper profile and the clocks have a more technical appearance and are even easier to read. As an option, hazard-warning lights are now also available on the F650 GS and GS Dakar, with the switch integrated in the impact plate where the switch for the heated handles used to be (it has now been moved to the right-hand control unit). A further standard feature is the on-board power socket, which allows the rider, among other things, to charge the battery without having to remove it from the machine.

The new jump-start point (with the plus pole beneath the seat and the minus pole on the gearbox cover) enables the rider to jump-start his machine, again without having to remove any major components.

The F650's previous clutch lever had quite a wide span that caused problems for many female riders. Now, the clutch's operation has been modified and the adjustable lever's narrowest position will be fine for almost all riders - especially those with small hands (it can be operated by riders with a glove size of just 7.5).

Powerful braking - ABS;

No other motorcycle manufacturer offers ABS as an option on as many models as BMW Motorrad. ABS is the safest way of braking on the road, under all conditions. It is a leveller for braking for riders of all experience.

ABS is an anti-lock braking system, which gives riders greater braking capacity. Switchable ABS (that can be turned off when riding off-road) is available as an option on the F650 GS for only £375.

The completed package;

The F650 GS is equipped with 19-inch and 17-inch spoked wheels at the front and rear respectively. Additional features include a 300mm (11.8in) single-disc front brake with twin-piston floating calipers and sintered metal brake pads, and a 240mm (9.4in) single-disc rear with a single-piston, floating caliper.

The fuel tank capacity is 17.3 litres (3.83 gallons) and the excellent power-to-weight ratio will reward GS riders with a touring range of around 200 miles. Once the F650 GS has been run-in, scheduled servicing is carried out at 10,000 kilometres (6,000 miles) intervals.

Colour schemes;

The F650 GS is available in three colours - Iceberg Silver metallic, Deep Black non-metallic and Red non-metallic combined with Black seat colour only.

Standard Factory Equipment;

Factory fit options;

* Prices current as of 1 January 2006.

Accessories available;

Specifications for BMW F650 GS;

Performance/fuel consumption;

Electrical system;

Power transmission;

Chassis/brakes;

Dimensions/weights;