Video Review: 2019 BMW F 850 GS – Australian Launch

Heath Griffin recently head to the 2019 BMW F 850 GS and F 750 GS launch in the Macedon Ranges in NSW, Australia, where he had the opportunity to put the F 850 GS to the test in some of the toughest of Australian conditions to see just how it handles adventure riding.

The new for bike features a powerful, new two-cylinder in-line engine with two counterbalance shafts and a firing interval of 270/450 degrees for optimised smoothness and emotional sound, and generates 70 kW (95 hp) at 8250 rpm.

A self-amplifying, anti-hopping clutch provides a discernible reduction in the hand clutch operating force while the drop in engine drag torque also enhances safety on the road. Power transmission to the rear wheel comes from the 6-speed gearbox with secondary drive that is now positioned on the left-hand side.

A new steel bridge frame in monocoque construction, optimised suspension geometry and new fuel tank position also feature on the new model, while both the F 750 GS and F 850 GS also feature a completely new look, which benefits from a more dynamic design. The new LED headlight gives the front view an especially striking visual appeal.

New upside-down 43mm telescopic forks are found on the 850, plus double-sided aluminium swinging arm with central spring strut for more sensitive response characteristics. ABS, ASC plus ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes included as standard, with additional Riding Modes Pro available as an option.

The LED headlight (low and high beam) comes as standard, while LED daytime riding light as optional equipment. Connectivity with multi-functional instrument cluster and 6.5 inch full-colour TFT display plus numerous features as optional equipment.

2019 BMW F 850 GS Specifications

Claimed Power: 95hp[70kw]@8250rpm
Claimed Torque: 92Nm@6250rpm
Wet Weight: 229kg
Fuel capacity: 15L

Engine: Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke engine with four rocker arm operated valves per cylinder, DOHC, dry sum lubrication , 853cc, DOHC, 84 x 77 mm bore x stroke, 12.7:1 compression ratio, Riding Modes, ASC
Gearbox: Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox
Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch (anti-hopping), mechanically controlled

Chassis: Steel bridge frame in monocoque design, load-bearing engine, Aluminium double-sided swing arm

Suspension: 43mm USD fork, 204mm travel, directly mounted central spring strut with WAD, preload & rebound adjustable, 219mm travel (Optional: Dynamic ESA)

Brakes: BMW Motorrad ABS, twin front disc brake 305mm, two-piston floating caliper, single disc brake rear 265mm, single-piston floating caliper

Wheels & Tyres: Cross-spoke wheels, 2.15 x 21in, 4.25 x 17in, 90/90 – 21, 150/70 – 17

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 1593mm
Seat height: 860mm
Overall width: 922mm
Overall Length: 2305mm

Instruments: Digital multi-function display, optional 6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen

2019 BMW F 850 GS

2019 BMW F 850 GS model variants

2019 BMW F 850 GS –  From $17,990* + ORC

• Available in Racing Red Metallic
• Cross Spoke Wheels
• Two Riding Modes (Rain and Road)
• BMW Motorrad ABS
• Cruise Control
• Heated Grips
• Standard Seat Height 860mm
• Low Suspension Option available

2019 BMW F 850 GS

2019 BMW F 850 GS Rallye – From  $18,390* + ORC

• Available in Light White Metallic
• Cross Spoke Wheels
• Two Riding Modes (Rain and Road)
• Cruise Control
• BMW Motorrad ABS
• Heated Grips
• Rallye Package
• Hand Protection
• Standard Seat Height 860mm
• Low Suspension Option available

2019 BMW F 850 GS Rallye X – From $22,305* + ORC

• Available in Light White Metallic
• Dynamic Package + Lights Package
  • Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro
  • LED Headlight, Daytime Riding Light
  • Gear Shift Assist Pro, White LED Indicators
• Rallye Style
  • Hand Protection, Heated Grips
  • Cruise Control
• Rallye X Package
  • Dynamic ESA, HP Exhaust
  • Navigation Preparation
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring, Off Road Tyres
  • Standard Seat Height 860mm

2019 BMW F 850 GS Tour – From $21,805* + ORC

• Available in Pollux Metallic Matte
• Cross Spoke Wheels, BMW Motorrad ABS
• Heated Grips and Cruise Control
• Comfort Package + Touring Package
  • Dynamic ESA, Keyless Ride
  • Navigation Preparation, Centre Stand
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring
  • Luggage Grid with Pannier Fastenings
• Dynamic Package + Lights Package
  • Dynamic Traction Control
  • LED Headlight
  • Daytime Riding Light
  • Gear Shift Assist Pro
  • Riding Modes Pro
  • White LED Indicators
  • ABS Pro
• Style Tour
• Hand Protection
• Standard Seat Height 860mm