From Sand to Snow - 250 Miles on the New BMW F900GS - On & Off Road

BMW is bringing the fight to KTM, Ducati, Husqvarna, Triumph and Aprilia with their brand new F900GS. Can it really compete with the mid-weight ADV segment leaders? Is it worth $18,000 as tested? Let's find out. In-Depth review to follow. #motorcycle #adv #dualsport #bmw #f900gs #advbike
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00:00 Intro
00:41 F Bike Overview
04:00 Specs
06:32 Hi Speed Buffeting
08:40 Off Road 1
10:29 Walk Around
12:02 Off Road 2
14:28 Model Differences
15:09 Speed Run
15:24 Sport Riding
18:23 Off Road 3
22:19 Fuel Range
23:09 Pros and Cons

[@BigRockMoto]

I brought the bike home with me from this event. I have it for a couple months. What do you want to know? 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Mosko Moto Wildcat 8L Backpack: bit.ly/3OiE5Ss ⚡ REV’IT! Offtrack 2 Glove: imp.i104546.net/xk3dVd ⚡ Klim Krios Pro: imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM ⚡ Klim Marrakesh Jacket: imp.i104546.net/5gDAY2 ⚡ Klim Marrakesh Pant: imp.i104546.net/eKGDoz ⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Gore Tex Boot: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx ⚡ DJI Osmo Action 4: amzn.to/48O1F2b ⚡ DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/3Pcqeik ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@J_OSIS]

Ian, this is the video I was waiting for 🥳 As you already got the big GS, then Tiger 900 Rally Pro, I thought you will pass it this year. But thankfully no… so I have R1200GS and want something smaller for European and local TET roads. All other midsize adventure bikes have too much compromises. Look forward to deeper review. The tank is small, but I could withstand that. I hope it is not top heavy. That would be my question. Is there pannier rack available for it? I am a bit afraid about the exhaust protection when removing the passenger footrests…

[@ssmith954]

Is it top heavy? How does it feel (subjectively) compared to T7, Ducati Desert X, KTM 890 R as an off road / BDR bike. I'm assuming the aftermarket will take care of fuel capacity!

[@Adventure_blac]

@@ssmith954 haven’t though about after market fuel option. Like Roto packs?? I rode the 900 GS, tiger 900 rp, and the t7. To me at 5’7 it feel small and light. Def lighter than the 900 rally pro. Didn’t feel as tall as the t7.

[@denizkonuk9399]

Does it have any heat issues?

[@janvanhaas2826]

Will be worried for the crash bars, someone need to design one that is bolted to the chasis, not to the engine. Hopefully will feel agile and not top heavy.

[@Michael_Shay]

This is probably the first bmw adv that I've found visually appealing

[@sebbwebbo7557]

looks like a transalp imho

[@Michael_Shay]

@sebbwebbo7557 to me it's like a tuareg mixed with a t7 with a little bit of desert x on the rear

[@paulvandervyver4223]

I tend to agree

[@goldyg6511]

agree for parallel twin, but the new flagship 1300 I think looks state of the art and better for $30k!

[@angel387mx]

Totally agree.

[@juniorkang]

Range is a deal breaker for me… 150 miles is lame

[@occyman]

I rode one two weeks ago, pretty punchy fun bike. Everyone should watch Adam Riemann video reviews on it if off road is the focus.

[@occyman]

​@user-jl8yy5ir7syes that old AT bike (the warhorse) came from his northern Europe trip which he purchased in Europe (years before F900GS was released). I've seen him and that bike IRL (he also bought another old one as a back up). He also has a Tenere World Raid he is working on (which Yamaha gave him). He has also been global ambassador for KTM and sometimes BMW. He reviews bikes but in a very different way.

[@reidjordan6246]

Love your knowledge. Been waiting for this video from you!

[@paulvandervyver4223]

I was waiting for this one. I commented before I actually watched it. Will watch after work

[@chasingtrail]

Great video. Looks like an interesting new offering from BMW, but at that price point there's some tough competition. Tank range is pretty big miss. Really looking forward to your future comparisons. And as someone who ran bar risers in the past, I've recently changed my opinion on those and agree with you.

[@maximusmiles8435]

It's interesting that BMW used the 890 as a benchmark. 3 things come to mind. 1st Rather than seek to improve the suspension, it sounds like they just copied a bad trait. Being the harsh initial part of the stroke. Which is pretty sloppy, considering it would have been a simple fix with progressive rate springs. 2nd. It would have been nice if they would have copied the dial in traction control of the 890. I like that feature because I've never been comfortable drifting around corners on a gravel road. And with the 890's dial in traction it adds that aspect that I enjoy. 3rd. I'm really not sure why other manufactures continue to put either top heavy (good capacity) gas tanks. Or they put anemic gas tanks on their bikes. When they can kill 2 birds with one stone like KTM did with their saddle bag style tanks. It's a good idea, and the industry needs to adopt it. Bonus round, I'll bet they didn't light the controls like KTM. Conclusion for me is that while this is a huge step in the right direction for this segment of bikes from BMW. It still falls short of the mark if they are trying to compete with KTM. Just my .02

[@MH-xd2nd]

Regarding point 3, BMW had already addressed this with the original series by having an under seat tank. I had the original 800GSA and even with the super tall seat height and 24L tank it felt less top heavy than the (new, road version) F800GS. I can’t help but think that BMW has lost their way with the midrange bikes - something like a Tenere or a Tuareg is much much cheaper and as good if not better off-road and dual purpose bikes like the Tiger 900 and 890Adv are also cheaper and better all round bikes. I’m an ex owner of the last 750/850 series and I won’t be going back to this platform as I think they’re expensive, heavy, top heavy with poor suspension and one thing Ian mentioned is wind buffeting - they really suffer with this and are almost impossible to handle in strong crosswinds. The 900GS may be a better bike but it’s too extreme for most owners.

[@khakimzhanmiras]

the tuareg has a semi-underseat tank

[@advredbikes]

Thanks Ian for this great video, nice to see new bikes that are capable of off-road riding, looking forward to more videos on this bike, thank you

[@drchristofor]

Thank you, another very good review. Best from Germany!🖖

[@sandwaves5642]

Another GEREAT review ‼‼A pretty nice bike 😀😀👍👍👍👍👍👍 I seriously consider it 👍👍👍👍 TNX ‼‼

[@deanwaring6100]

Love your reviews, Ian ....😊

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@adventureundone]

Gosh this bike is gorgeous!

[@Adventure_blac]

Look even better in person

[@dwayneneufeld1696]

How about another full review like the review that was just done on the Tiger 900. That was excellent!

[@2482jamie]

Looks like an incredible bike. Going to try one in a few weeks. Not sure I’d take that over my tuareg

[@glenobrien727]

Real pity about the fuel range , about the only serious con , but a huge issue down-under , who wants to carry bladders on a highline bike like this ?

[@enricoheller2851]

I have owned this for 2 months now, and I do really like that bike. Put the bigger windshield on to reduce the noise and wind buffering. On normal riding, I can reach up to 300 km. That's enough for my needs. The bench can produce some pain on longer rides.

[@markuswormann8852]

Ever since I saw this bike,must think at you Ian,and waiting you get hands on it😊

[@nwbasson]

I was kinda excited seeing the starting price of this, but once you get all the packages etc it doesn't look as great anymore... The range is a let down.

[@armoth6958]

Totally agree re bar raisers, it’s actually quite dangerous as it takes weight off the front which decreases traction

[@steveh545]

Cool. I bet this is leagues above the old f650Dakar, having said that, i remember lusting after the F650 Dakar back in the day. Before i could even ride. Anything Dakar-ish floated my boat. Having lived in Europe when the ATs and Teneres and Cagivas were a big deal, those were my dream bikes. Come back to the States, and it was basically the F650Dakar or Transalp. Ironically, 35 yrs later, I have a modded out Transalp, so I'd probably still like the F650. It suits my riding ability... i.e. slow.

[@marksealey7583]

Hi Ian,, Another great video. I live in England and currently ride a R1250gs. I love my bike but would love to see you compare this new 900 to something like the new 2024 Africa twin. As when the time comes to change these would be on my list. Not the1300 GS as I don't like (just my personal opinion). Keep up the good work 👍

[@jasgsxr2726]

Great stuff Ian, love that you use both imperial and metric measurements and you do a great job with the tables, awesome.

[@BigRockMoto]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@verlinswarey507]

I liked the old 650’s. Never had one but there’s a few nice,low mileage ones that I’ve been tempted to pull the trigger on lately. Definitely like this 900.

[@owenlushadv]

I love this model from BMW. It’s great and exciting to see them putting something out to really compete in the more off-road segment of adv riding!

[@johancarlbark]

I felt the same when I tried it last week, fun little snappy bike with lots of wind, thinking of buying Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme or Honda CRF Africa Twin 1100 Adventure Sport manual with quickshifter!

[@centralcoastcruiser2084]

Really a bummer about the small fuel tank otherwise it would be a good choice.

[@wicko2363]

Can’t be a KTM killer, it will run out of fuel with that 16ltr tank about 100k sooner, which is a real shame.

[@GamerTagged]

I love the styling of this bike and took one for a test ride a month ago. It’s definitely a beast but the tiny screen and reduced fuel tank make it a miss for me. Especially when compared to the Tiger 900 Rally Pro.

[@casey3057]

I think this just goes to the point that from a midsize ADV standpoint we really are living in a great time. Soooo many great options and the big 4 (KTM Triumph BMW Ducati) have all given us something that fills gaps that no other category can fill. Add in the T7, Transalp and the Toureg 660 and we’re pretty damn spoiled.

[@BigRockMoto]

Yep

[@malcolmeunson5543]

The big 4? You mean Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Yamaha…!! 😉

[@casey3057]

@@malcolmeunson5543 I said what I said 🤭

[@gpzfan5272]

@@malcolmeunson5543 Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax and Metallica

[@anymouse6202]

Thanks

[@yanickmoore5146]

Just received mine this weekend and this is a very fun machine to ride, very torquy. I am very very happy of my choice so far…i ordered a few item as lower seat, hire windshield and some protections bars.

[@BigRockMoto]

Great to hear!

[@billtozerrealtor7331]

I'm a short ass... if possible tell me about seat height options AND what impact changing to the low seat height will have on handling. I'm also keen to hear more comparison notes between this one and the 1300GS. Good review so far Ian, thanks.

[@jamescampbell4334]

Well, the Erzgerg Rodeo was around a week ago, where was BMW with this GS900. Ducati showed everyone what they have in the DesertX, by bringing it out and winning the Prologue twin cylinder class in 2023. Repeated it again in 2024. Some reviewers of this GS900 like to compare its price to the DDX Rally. Hey BMW, if these are REALLY similar ADV bikes, lets see a comparison on the "Iron Road" in Erzberg.

[@chukku2175]

Since the bike was first announced, I've been waiting for Ian to review it! Great job as always! I am really impressed by the bike's prrformance an offroad focus. But in the end I still wouldn't consider it over my Tuareg. The 26 extra HP are probably a lot of fun on a twisty road, but it seems like the actual offroad and onroad highway performance still can't match the Aprilia. And the BMW is a full 50% more expensive than the Tuareg here in Switzerland (18k vs. 12k CHF with similar spec)

[@BigRockMoto]

Agreed.

[@_hold_the_line_]

Great video Ian. Please test the adventure model if possible because this one is too limited in fuel range to be relevant. It would however be interesting to see an actual range till empty test on this bike, just to be fair.

[@Goodtimesbaddecsions]

Thanks for another great video. Your reviews are always my go to when considering a new bike. Big Rock Moto for the win!

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@robhoek8064]

You recently tested the Tiger 900 rally pro (if I’m correct), do you prefer the BMW over the Triumph when it comes to just riding on-and offroad ?

[@BigRockMoto]

Off road, 900gs is better. On road, tiger.

[@adrianm.1910]

The 310 headlight deserves a mention! 🙂

[@yorkchris10]

Sounds like the suspension starts to feed back at more pace less abruptly than T7. It still seems like a BMW design for BMW kind of riders. Interesting consistency.

[@tecdive8045]

I am looking forward to your comments on exactly how the new F900gs compares to the 2024 Tiger RP, Desert X, and 890 Adventure R. Thanks for the preview!

[@BigRockMoto]

Coming soon!

[@obud3777]

Would be a nice replacement for my TransAlp !

[@armoth6958]

What is the heat coming from the engine on your legs like? Seat comfort? (Is it good for all-day riding?) fuel economy with easy riding?

[@wmbushUT]

Love the F900 GS until you looked at the range on the display… 😢

[@akiuliano]

Guzzi V85 for the win. Lower seat height. Almost everything you want on a bike and still lets you know you are riding a machine and not some abomination of a motorcycle. Massive gas tank, shaft drive and comfortable seat. Check them out.

[@BigRockMoto]

Great bikes

[@herbshirt6073]

Thanks for the heads up. Love Guzzi’s though I hadn’t considered them in this category.

[@ExxTremElyResUlTs]

how does it compare to the desert x in particular

[@Tcflohr]

Always loving the honest reviews! I’m rocking an r1150GSA and a DR650 in my stable, amongst others. I always debate getting a middle weight ADV to replace both of those, but honestly I think I’m good having 2 bikes for different roles instead of one bike struggling to fill those.

[@RadDadisRad]

The F650GS Dakar is on my list to get. Not many left.

[@timlubbers2884]

If you are in the southeast, there’s a cheap (?) g650gs thumper just down the street from me for 3099.00

[@Loiczzr]

There is one for sale at the bmw dealer in vegas

[@burddog0792]

They should make a new one. Would probably be a twin though.

[@skipole09]

Well done Ian. Can I ask if you had to choose between this and a DX, what are you going with?

[@BigRockMoto]

This due to easier air filter access and no desmo valves

[@Westsidecuz01]

Are you gonna review the 900 gsa??

[@kpvTX88]

can you make a long review for the Desert X please ✌🏼

[@BigRockMoto]

I have one

[@diyeveryday67]

Sounds like BMW added tank from the F900XR. The F900XR suffers from same fuel mileage issues. Over 8000 miles I have averaged 38mpg. That does not get you very far between fills!! You still have the gps track for this ride??

[@dansepello1101]

Small fuel tanks make for nice wet weight numbers

[@takeshikusao4674]

I don't get it. How do they manage to have this buffeting problem for decades, totally unchanged?.. Is that, like, a feature?

[@GregLanz]

That's a very appealing bike to me. I like that they got rid of the extra seemingly useless beak from the front. For me at least I wouldn't want to take a 1300 cc bike off-road and it doesn't have the same concerns of a ktm

[@JimboSlicee]

Man, that closed course looks a lot like Lee canyon road heading up to mt Charleston! ;)

[@BigRockMoto]

Haha. Maybe

[@JimboSlicee]

@@BigRockMoto really though, thank you for this review! I was thinking of picking an f900 up and loved seeing you go through some of my favorite off road routes (Lovell canyon is a fun trip I take a few times a year). Looks capable to me! Curious about the handlebar position after your commentary though!

[@Roberta_Esposito]

WANT🏆

[@user-cv9my1jq2r]

Cool

[@hiphopjug]

Will you pick this or the Tiger 900 RP? What’s your recommendation?

[@BigRockMoto]

900 feels at home off road, Tiger on the road

[@edvardstark7142]

How does it compare to the tenere 700?

[@charankumar9073]

U should review the new Africa Twin AS DCT soon

[@BigRockMoto]

I plan to

[@Texan_American]

Interested in the GSA version

[@awesomeagnihotrisvlog]

Don’t bother mate it’s the heaviest in the segment 🥹🙏

[@user-pq3ep6hu7m]

Would you trade your Taureg 660 for a F900GS?

[@UgurYemez]

Thanks for your comments all are valuable.. I noticed the wind buffetting too. If we have to compare this issue with 890R, how about F900GS? more or less? Thanks,

[@BigRockMoto]

About the same

[@joaocampos4160]

How do you feel like about testing the Kove 800x pro?

[@BigRockMoto]

i cant wait

[@bjwilliams6115]

Please look at it 2 up as well.

[@adrianm.1910]

Impossible, it has a short enduro-style seat. The rear pegs are useless.

[@jomipiro]

Are you hiring? 😁 So many bikes to ride... I volunteer. You just need to convince BMW Portugal (& others) to lend me the bikes. 🤤

[@Mike.4639]

7,8 LT / 100 km its crazy high, at highway speed Im getting 4,5 on the T7. Worse if you consider the 250 km autonomy. For me BMW aimed at a café Racer ish instead an ADV bike . Looks good, interested to see how long that engine with such high compression ratio is going to last.

[@racenotrace]

14 liter petrol tank is a joke.

[@rvator7291]

Honda always seems to have the best fuel miliage and usually will burn 87 octane. Is power and performance that much better on the GS from the transalp? Or are they in different classes?

[@BigRockMoto]

Different classes.

[@daxmonster3429]

I have a problem paying BMW dollars on a bike with an engine made in China.

[@rusninguran]

Jezzuz, then you are in a world of hurt

[@jamescampbell4334]

​@rusninguran No, he isn't. Just needs to do what I did, purchase a Ducati DesertX. 😂 Over 13k miles in one year of ownership, has been FLAWLESS!

[@rusninguran]

@@jamescampbell4334 😂

[@rjeepster8640]

I hate the BMW mirrors! On my gs I swapped them out for a set of 2015 v-strom 650 mirrors. Fit perfect and doubles your vision.

[@andrea737]

The bike is very beautiful but I remain puzzled. It looks like an F900R modified for off-road riding and also has a twin sister, the Voge 900, which costs half as much. The engine is very exposed and the 17-inch wheel is not ideal for off-roading

[@MotorDanko]

the frame, chasis and sub chasis of the f900 is pretty similar if not identical of the f850... i don't know if they made slight changes but i don't see many.... maybe different frontal support for the elements like headlight, TFT and such but the frame and rear sub frame are identical to me... not that is bad, but i think is wrong by BMW saying that they are different when they are not-

[@adrianm.1910]

BMW couldn't do two full redesigns simultaneously. They needed a mid-cycle refresh, though, as the F 850 GS, not the GSA, had become irrelevant.

[@MotorDanko]

@adrianm.1910 I'm ok with that, but lest not say that is a completely new motorcycle, is the same 850, with less stuff added, that now you have to buy... again I like it a lot but is the same tendency that other brands are taking, the desert X, the tenere... but in other hand you have the tuareg, the tiger 900 and the ktm 890 variants that came much more complete from the factory.

[@adrianm.1910]

​@@MotorDanko Exactly, the F 900 GS and GSA are the same bike and only a mid-cycle refresh-not a new motorcycle.

[@RadDadisRad]

Did you try backing out your preload to help soften up your ride off-road?

[@BigRockMoto]

Yes I adjusted everything

[@RadDadisRad]

@@BigRockMoto it’s a bummer you couldn’t get it adjusted for a more pleasant off-road ride.

[@Pyro83489]

Aprilia Tuareg 660 launched in India for 27500 USD

[@AlYassi77]

How is it comparing to Aprilia Tuareg 660 , in terms of comfort, highway and most importantly off road. If you have to choose one which one would it be. Price is not an option

[@podunkman2709]

Difference is evident; 219kg vs 204kg

[@BigRockMoto]

I'd go Aprilia. 900 is faster, but I prefer the Aprilia suspension, windshield, and lighter weight

[@1492omega]

The F900gs does seem like an inbalanced package. Small fuel tank, tiny wind screen, and suspension that doesn't seem like it hits the spot. How about the center of gravity? How well does the BMW carry its weight?

[@AZMOTOMTB]

I think I'll stick with my Tenere 700 for my ADV bike... That kind of fuel range is unacceptable for my multi-day camping trips, when there is a long way to go until you reach next gas station.

[@twowheelin7361]

Rear brake light set up is super confusing for traffic behind. Reason I didn’t buy one👍🏽

[@dstubby82]

Loved my 700gs, but over 65 mph that buzz was intolerable...😬

[@Angry-Lynx]

not taking fast hits well is very bad sign ....

[@Kitsunemel]

Would you buy this bike over a Tiger 900 Rally Pro?

[@BigRockMoto]

For mostly off road riding, yes, due to the stability

[@brulaapgaapmeester8052]

Great bike, but I just don't like the engine for some reason. It's functional enough of course.

[@henryvaneyk3769]

It is really disappointing that BMW decided not to base the new 900GS Adventure on the new 900GS. This will confuse many prospective customers, and will cause many issues with aftermarket upgrades as the upgrades will have to be targeted to each specific model. But then we also know the new 900GS is actually a rebranded Voge 900 DSX with some BMW kit added. So maybe Voge does not have an offering that fits into the long distance touring market.

[@adrianm.1910]

This is confusing. GS and GSA share most components. The GS is not a new bike; only the subframe and tower changed, and probably fit older 850 bikes.

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

Im sure they will sell a ton of them but a 380lb 650 from BMW would sure be nice, oh and please put at least 5 gallons of fuel carry capability. Whats with the shrinking fuel tanks?

[@chadkline4268]

Why not a DR650 if that's what you are seeking?

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

@@chadkline4268 I have what I need, I just feel BMW is missing out on the 650ish CC dual sport market. I owned an F650 and it was a decent bike. An updated one would be interesting.

[@outdoorkreations7051]

After months of deciding i chose a 790 adventure r over the tuarag and tenere. Picked up a 2019 with 10k miles for under 7k with all service records. I wanted to check the valves and cams just to be safe. Cams were eaten up especially the intake. Probably need new head and Journals. Im so devasted I wish i chose the tenere now

[@BigRockMoto]

Wow. Very sorry to hear this.

[@emaeder18]

People say that the T7 is top heavy, well this one is even more

[@BigRockMoto]

I disagree, this feels less top heavy

[@emaeder18]

@@BigRockMoto, good thing we don’t have to agree.

[@ZeroXSEED]

@@emaeder18 I'm not defending BMW pork but you gotta test it before you say it Like A lot of people knew how KLR650 are less top heavy than T7, so did TransAlp, because they tried.

[@emaeder18]

@@ZeroXSEED thank you for making things obvious, I did test them. I do own BMWs

[@ZeroXSEED]

@@emaeder18 I didn't realize you're part of the test riders, thank you.

[@ts-cj2ym]

160 miles... damn it 😣 Hope they get the problem an add a large tank option..

[@groverw7507]

Is he saying all the middleweight F series use the same engine/displacement?

[@BigRockMoto]

Yes

[@BlazinBlades]

OMG Over 70 mph: horrible buffeting, handlebar vibration and 36 mpg… I’m sure you’re just biased against BMW…😂😂😂 The electronics do seem fantastic though 😅😅 Thanks for another honest fantastic review 🍻🍻

[@toddsorel-pg4hr]

Funny how a 100hp 900cc bike is now “mid-size”. That used to be a liter bike! You aren’t selling me this bike very well; huge cost, terrible range and highway comfort. Sounds like the old F and G650s are better than this in those matters! At least the bike looks all business now but those issues make it a hard pass for me when a $4000, 990 Adventure or even a KLR sounds like a better bike to travel on.

[@mikerinaldi3471]

Is it worth $18k?

[@bjrnhjjakobsen2174]

What type of tires were mounted ?

[@BigRockMoto]

Karoo 4

[@bjrnhjjakobsen2174]

@@BigRockMoto Thks🇩🇰

[@andrewpeter6128]

Difficult to make everyone happy. In my region, half the speed and half the power is ideal.

[@vaunbastikar5415]

On full tank, how much range did you get? Since it has only 14.5 litter(3.83 gallons)of fuel tank capacity.

[@nielsmeer]

With what BMW claims for consumption, it should be able to do just over 200 miles. That’s pretty reasonable for an adventure bike. In almost any part of the US it would be fine. For the places out west where stations are really far apart, carrying some extra fuel when in those areas isn’t a bad compromise. The Adventure variant will have a larger tank of course, but the trade off is always weight vs range. To me, 99% of the rides I do, 200 miles is enough range to find another station. For that 1% where it’d be a challenge, I’d carry another fuel canister. The KTM 890’s range is only slightly more at ~235 miles, or

[@Adventure_blac]

@@nielsmeer at 3.8 gallons it def isnt doing 200 miles. I rented a tiger 900 rally pro and that was getting 160-180 before the fuel light came on but the listed range was usually 200-220 with full tank. This was high speed touring on the highway so between 70 and 90mph. ian claimed 36 on the low end and mid 40s on the high end so 120-140 before you need to fill up probably

[@nielsmeer]

@@Adventure_blac Ian also said they were really heavy on the throttle & would have seen better overall economy in normal riding. On a bike that is still being broken in (he said it had about 200 miles on it when he referenced the tires), and using the indicated MPG (not measured at refill with mileage) isn't reflective of the real-world economy. But, let's be pessimistic & assume around 50MPG (the much heavier 2023 F850GS Adventure gets 52MPG on Fuelly), and you want to fill with about 1/2 gallon still in the tank.... you'd be refilling around 165 miles, not 120. One of the big advantages of the midsize bikes over the bigger twins is economy. While my 2012 R1200GSA (oil cooled) has an average of 39MPG measured by gallons added and miles ridden over more than 30K miles, much of it on dirt, a smaller bike with a smaller capacity engine that's also water cooled will get much better MPG. Mid to high 50s wouldn't be out of character, given the weight of the F900GS. But let's see what Ian measures with the bike at home.

[@Adventure_blac]

@@nielsmeer ok I mean I trust Ian. Every bike i have ever ridden get less mpg than stated. BMW claim 64 mpg. What Ian also said was he filled the tank and it indicated 164 miles. At 36 mpg he guess at around 100-120. My estimation was 120-140. 165 Maybe all highway and going 70. Not with mixed rigging. Based on my experience of mixed riding. I don’t mean bone dry by shits off. I mean miles you can go until the light comes one. Reserve is 1 gallon so the light would come on when 2.8 gallons get used. 2.8 x 50=140. And I think that would be riding highway miles. How far do you go when the bike say you need fuel? You run the tank dry?

[@Merpwood]

I've owned mine now for a few weeks and can definitely say the range is absolute trash. I get 230km (canadian here) on a tank that is filled to the brim. It really is a fly in the ointment from an otherwise stellar bike. I'd say the tank size is the culprit but it also does suck fuel down at highway speeds.

[@Texan_American]

Im sure if you're tall you wont mind the risers

[@mikemerrill175]

I haven’t ridden one but the weight difference between this and the 1250 or 1300 doesn’t seem that it would be worth the other benefits you give up. “On paper” comparo and all.

[@BigRockMoto]

True, you give up a lot compared to the big gs, not sure it's worth the weight difference.

[@petertrout7866]

What was the real world mileage on the 1300?

[@BigRockMoto]

45 to 50

[@petertrout7866]

@@BigRockMoto so definitely better than the f900gs

[@PisgahGravelProject]

Bar risers suck. Sure, it makes it a bit more comfortable for taller riders-but it makes the bike handle like crap when riding aggressively. When the bars are low, its easier to keep your weight over the handlebars.

[@BigRockMoto]

Agree

[@plurz215]

At 6"3 they're necessary, then fwd position if you have a KTM👌

[@Scratti80]

I'm 6"3, ride a 1290sar '21 and def do not want the bars any higher than stock. I'm thinking about trying a lower bar like renthal 999 or something...

[@plurz215]

@@Scratti80 Each to their own I guess and I have the same bike, 20mm raised to facilitate a Scotts steering damper and it feel perfect to me. I did try a different bend bar to open up the cockpit but had clearance issues on full lock fyi.

[@johnharris7353]

Prefer my F650GS. . 17.5 liters under the seat.

[@wanderlpnw]

No wonder why the GSA is so much heavier. No one else mentioned it was the old bike with a new engine.

[@adrianm.1910]

This is not true. Go to a dealership and check for yourself.

[@wanderlpnw]

@@adrianm.1910 it's what Ian is saying here.

[@adrianm.1910]

​@@wanderlpnw Ian needs to be corrected on that one. Maybe he's quoting BMW. I own a 2022 F 850 GSA and know my bike well. It's the same chassis with a new rear subframe and tower-not a new bike.

[@wanderlpnw]

@@adrianm.1910 yeah I don't think a rear subframe and tower will change the handling or lower the weight. So pretty much what we're saying.