2008 F650 GS Demo Ride

[Stephane]

Went to my local dealer today to take a demo ride on the new twin 650 GS. I did not expect to be as impressed as I am with the bike .

Pros:
Extremely smoooooth twin
First gear will take you to 48 mph with ease
Seat is more comfortable than I expected (offers ability to move back if needed)
Went to 72 mph in 4th gear and started to get vibes in pegs (never got to 6th gear, ride too short)
Priced right (listing at $9M CDN for base model; moderately equiped at $11M CDN)
Side stand is just perfect (a nice blend between too long for pre 08 650 GS when compared to the shorty on the new F 800 s and ST)
Easier access to oil drain plug (on the lower side of engine, not under engine)
Despite my 34" inseam, found bike comfortable and not too short
Engine is really a 'detuned' F 800 with output at 71 hp

Cons
Despite my long arms, I found I really had to reach forward and out on either side to get grips (although forward and back can be adjusted, I don't know about the reaching out to the sides)
Found the throttle to be somewhat 'jerky'. I really had to make progressive gas on and gas off moves to keep bike movement smooth


Worst Con of all is that I will need to build great liquid courage to talk to wife about new bike. If I never post another thread, please call polic...

 

[awagnon]

I wish they were available in the US. Today I sold my 2006 F650GS with plans to put the money towards the new model. I hate waiting....

Thanks for the ride report.

 

[BOXERR]

When I rode the 650 out here in Australia, I thought the seat was the worst point.
I had a sore butt in 10 miles.

It will be interesting to see how the 800 compares.

 

[PAULBACH]

F650 GS twin now in US

I rode it today in Lake George, NY. It is now part of the BMW US demo fleet.

Lots of torque in any gear but requires high RPMs to get going.
A bit buzzy at all speeds.

Superb handling. It handles a lot like the F650CS but this iteration has two cylinders.

The F800 GS as also available for test drives.