The new F650GS (BMW F650GS)

Member Name: baldeagle

Product:	BMW F650GS
Date:	17/08/00 (12592 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Quicker, smoother, better looking

Disadvantages: Bit pricey for a 50bhp single

Having enjoyed more than 60000 miles on the old type F650, I was a little nervous as I threw my leg over the gleaming demonstrator at Clarkes BMW in Birmingham.

First impressions count a lot, and the overall design and more dirt bike inspired bolted together look appealed instantly.

The seat is much lower, the springing firmer, the mass carried lower (because of the under the seat petrol tank)and the engine sounded like a well damped wet fart.

But, and its a big but, it went like the proverbial shit of a shovel. No longer the hesitation to let the engine slog at low revs, or the need to short shift through the gears when giving it some head, the new fuel injected unit pulled brilliantly at almost any revs.

It a better bike in almost every way, from aesthetics to rider thrills. Gripes are few and far between - perhaps the seat was a little too firm, the fairing a little to small, and the sound from the twin pipes was much too muted.

Would I buy one? Without doubt, but not without loads more dooyoo miles coming in.

Summary: