BMW F 850 GS 2023 — Specifications

If the F 850 GS sees so many melodies and epics in front of its spoked wheels, it also sees the competition nibbling away at its territory. The KTM 890 Adventure promotes a taste of rally, while the 900 Tiger has established a significant force with its various versions. The BMW doesn’t intend to stop there and has recently gained equipment.

You want to immediately win over the rider? Flatter the eye as soon as they are on the saddle. The F 850 GS adopts the 5-inch color TFT instrument panel, with its graphics, high-tech interface, and connectivity functions. A USB socket as a bonus, a windscreen adjustment system, LED turn signals, and further improvements in rider assistance systems continue the evolution of performance. Then it’s in the electronic systems that things happen.

Previously with ABS and anti-slip control ASC, the F 850 GS ‘evolved’ to replace them with a reactive ABS Pro in corners and a more effective DTC traction control. Then comes the clan of options where BMW added dynamic engine braking control and DBC brake control in the Pro Riding Modes. The 'Dynamic' mode has been reworked while a mode selection system can be assigned to a handlebar-mounted control. The saddle too high? No problem, there’s a new, extra-low one in the catalog, which can be accompanied by lowered suspension.

The engine undergoes only minor revisions; solely to be ready to digest the Euro5 standard. It ensures initial efficiency without encroaching on the big sister’s territory. The latter staunchly defends its stronghold.

Trail being almost a philosophy at BMW, it is essential for the Bavarian manufacturer to maintain the range at a high level. Of course, everyone immediately thinks of the R 1250 GS. But in the shadow of this icon of the road and trail, this F 850 intends to claim its share of the territory. And since a certain Honda Africa Twin has seriously established itself in the sector, it was time for the ex-800 to raise the level of performance.

And it starts with a completely revised engine, ready for multiple occasions. BMW has seriously looked at its parallel-twin to offer more. With more space in the cylinders, it will be able to deliver power. The displacement increases to 853 cm3, or 55 more. It is located both in the F 750 GS and in the 850 but obviously, the performance is not at all the same. Here, the power reaches 95 horsepower at 8250 rpm and a torque of 9.4 mkg at 6250 rpm. That’s 10 hp and almost 1 mkg more than on the previous F 800 GS. Like the 750, this machine can be restricted to A2. The whole of the modifications leads to an inversion of place for some peripherals. Thus, the secondary chain transmission moves to the left and the exhaust pipe migrates to the right. BMW had carried out the same type of operation when its 1200 GS adopted the liquid-cooled boxer. It says, with an exhaust pipe to the right of the bike, it avoids getting burned when maneuvering (lifting) on the left side; side that we use the most.

The F 850 GS is fully electronic, as standard or as an option. Let's start with the original equipment, which includes two Riding Modes (Rain and Road), DTC, ABS Pro, Dynamic brake light (standard since 2019), and a revamped instrument panel. The appetizers can quickly tempt you. It is thus possible to equip the F 850 GS with the ESA electronically adjustable suspension, a quickshifter, the Pro Riding Modes - which adds Enduro, Enduro Pro and Dynamic -, the LED signature headlight, the emergency call system and the Keyless Ride keyless start system.

The design of the 850 GS, which it shares completely with its little sister, demonstrates a more assertive will. Beneath, we also assert ourselves. The GS abandons its tubular trellis frame for a more rigid steel structure. The fuel tank changes position, and returns to a classic location between the rider and the driving position; it was located under the saddle on the F 800 GS. This GS has a more sensible chassis geometry than the one it replaces. Regarding the suspension, we find an inverted 43 mm fork and a mono-shock with large suspension travel. With 204 mm at the front and 219 mm at the rear, this motorcycle clearly announces its off-road intentions. The spoked wheels go in the same direction, especially the 21-inch front wheel fitted with a narrow 90/90 front tire. The saddle height has dropped by 20 mm, to a top height of 860 mm. Regarding weight, however, the F 850 GS has eaten a large chunk of cheese and gains 12 kilos on the scale.

Concerned to take control of the mid-size trail segment with off-road capabilities, the BMW F 850 GS improves in many areas. It relies both on technology and on its ability to roam on rough terrain to calm the competition. It’s not easy because the level has risen considerably in recent years. But there’s the blue and white badge on the fairing.

M.B - Photos manufacturer