Road-testing the BMW F 650 GS: The F 650 has been around for a dozen years. This trail bike-styled single was a radical departure in BMW's larger multi-cylinder stable.
Indeed many BMW purists reacted with shock, forgetting that BMW made thousands of singles such as the R25 350cc prior to and during the second World War.
The F 650 was first known as the Funduro. Designed by Martin Longmore and built by Aprilia, its engine was a 4-valve version of the Austrian Rotax. It continued in production with a minor modifications for the seven years. It sold well on its award-winning looks, reliability and economy.
In 2000 it was re-styled, fuel-injection became standard and it was now built in Berlin. Now called the F 650 GS, its fuel tank is under the seat, lowering the centre of gravity and giving better balance and stability. A Dakar version, with 21" front wheel and longer-travel suspension reflected its capability in the most arduous conditions. The CS or Scarver with belt instead of chain drive was added for strictly on-road use.
Today's F 650 GS remains true to the original. Being the baby of the range, it's easy to dismiss it as a budget BMW, but this would be a mistake. This design more than proved itself in events such as the Paris-Dakar, as well as in daily use.
Its rugged reliability can be judged from the fact that a British-based rider we know has twice flown to the US for the biennial 10-day, 10,000-mile Iron Butt Rally. Both times he bought a BMW F 650 GS from a US dealer, rode it trouble-free for the full event, and sold it back to the dealer before flying home.
The F 650 is possibly BMW's most under-rated machine. Its 652cc DOHC 4-valve, 4-stroke engine produces 37kW at 6,500rpm and 60Nm torque at 5,000rpm. It's water-cooled, has a closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter and 5-speed gearbox. Kerbside weight is 193kg. Claimed top speed is 170km/h and fuel consumption 3.21L at 90 km/h and 4.3L at 120km/h.
ABS is available as an option - it can be switched off for off-road use. Seat height is a modest 780mm with both higher and lower options available.
The trail bike-type configuration is ideal for urban use, giving nimble manoeuvrability with a narrow profile. The seating position is well-designed, all controls falling nicely to hand. Taller riders might like the higher-seat option.
Thanks to the latest electronics, a twin-spark head and engine management systems starting is faultless - and chokeless. Tickover is steady from the word go.
The cable clutch is light, with adjustable lever. Gear ratios are well-chosen - first might seem a trifle low, but bear in mind this is a machine with real off-road ability.
Typical of a high-torque single, engine braking is impressive. When required, the single front 300mm and rear 240mm diameter disc brakes are excellent.
Pillion comfort is better than most machines, and passenger footrests are well placed.
Some vibration is to be expected from any single-cylinder machine. Most noticeable on tickover, it virtually disappears once the engine is pulling. Acceleration is good, and the gearbox a delight. Mirrors are excellent.
Some riders will appreciate the fact that the indicator control is orthodox instead of BMW's "three-switches-to-do-the-work-of-one" system common to the rest of its range. A centre stand is fitted.
The minuscule screen seems largely cosmetic - several owners have fitted the taller Dakar screen. Aluminium panniers are an option and can be adjusted in width to take up to 31 litres.
Typical of BMW, a wide range of other options are available including: on-board computer, GPS, lowered suspension, hand-protectors, heated grips, top case, tank bag, engine guard etc.
The machine feels much lighter than its 193kg suggests, no doubt due to the lower placed tank. Power delivery is smooth. Despite a good power-weight ratio of around 260bhp/tonne, power comes in progressively.
The bike remains stable and vice-free throughout the speed range. Riders used to larger, more powerful machines would not be disappointed and novices would find it confidence inspiring.
For those subject to power restrictions, there is the option to reduce the power to the required 25kW at 6,000rpm. This also cuts torque to 51Nm at 3,750rpm.
So, a well-designed, well-built, thoroughly versatile machine which is a joy to ride whether in the daily gridlock, the off-duty recreational ride or touring holiday. At €9,200 on the road, it's good value for money.