BMW Motorrad has unveiled the 2024 BMW F900GS, a middleweight adventure bike with an increased capacity. The F900GS features an upgraded 895 cc parallel-twin engine borrowed from its counterparts, the F900R and F900XR. However, what sets the F900GS apart is its radically different design compared to the outgoing F850GS.
The F900GS is accompanied by two new models in the middleweight GS range—the BMW F900GS Adventure and the down-tuned F800GS. All three models receive several upgrades, but it is the F900GS that stands out the most. BMW has taken note of the growing trend of adventure motorcycles with rally-derived looks and has designed the F900GS accordingly.
The F900GS exudes a tall and slender profile with a forward-biased windscreen and an enduro-style seat. It strays away from the typical BMW GS design, with no blocky dual headlights and minimal headlight beaks. BMW’s intention is to cater to riders who prefer off-road riding or those who simply want to give off the appearance of adventure riding.
Despite the visual changes, the relationship between the three models in the middleweight GS range remains the same. The F900GS is considered the core model, the F900GS Adventure offers enhanced long-distance capability, and the F800GS is a downscaled version. All three bikes now have improved power, with the new 900 engine delivering 10 hp more than the outgoing 850, resulting in an output of 105 hp at 8,500 hp. The torque has also increased slightly to 93 Nm at 6,750 rpm.
Each bike comes equipped with LED lighting, a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, keyless ignition, ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes. Additionally, they feature redesigned body panels and are available in new colors.
As for the F900GS, it not only looks slimmer than its predecessor but is physically lighter as well. The steel fuel cell of the F850GS has been replaced with a 14.5 l plastic reservoir, resulting in a weight reduction of 14 kg. Other upgrades include fully adjustable Showa front suspension, optimized ergonomics for off-road use, and various standard features such as enduro-style foot pegs, an upgraded brake lever, and an aluminum side stand.
BMW offers a hardcore upgrade package for the F900GS, which includes heavy-duty chains, additional off-road-specific rider modes, and titanium nitride-coated forks. The dynamic electronic suspension adjustment system is also available for the F900GS and F900GS Adventure.
Moving on to the F900GS Adventure, it features an adjustable touring windscreen, a more comfortable seat, and a larger fuel tank. The Adventure model appears to share many components with the core F900GS, including the Akrapovič exhaust, 21F/17R wheels, and suspension. It is also equipped with crash bars and luggage racks.
The F800GS, on the other hand, is lower in height, has 19F/17R cast wheels, reduced suspension travel, and a 815 mm seat height. It is targeted towards newcomers, smaller riders, or those who prioritize on-road performance over off-road capabilities.
All three bikes come in various liveries, including the traditional white, blue, and red ‘GS Trophy’ scheme and the striking ‘São Paulo Yellow’.
The new BMW F900GS has a sleek and appealing design, although it seems to have borrowed its headlight from the smaller G310GS. The real test for its success will be how well it performs against its competitors. While the F900GS boasts more power than the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and is only slightly lacking in torque compared to the KTM 890 Adventure R, it may still struggle to compete with the rally-focused appeal of the KTM. Ultimately, the success of the F900GS will depend on its overall performance on the road and off-road.