BMW is aiming to shake up the 800 cc mid-size sport and sport touring motorcycle market with a pair of high-torque parallel twins due in Australia within weeks.

The all new BMW F 800 S and F 800 ST models will bring a premium motorcycling experience to a wider group of riders than ever before. Early indications are that this innovative, exciting and dramatically styled range of bikes will be eagerly snapped up by customers.

Strong interest has been registered by BMW Motorrad dealers across Australia since the F 800 range was announced.

Now BMW Motorrad can reveal pricing for the two models which begin arriving in dealerships in November 2006. The BMW F 800 S will be priced from $14,500 plus on road costs, and the F 800 ST will be priced from $15,000 plus orc.

Australian market specification comprises the all new twin cylinder 800 cc engine complete with innovative balancer conrod, producing 62.5 kW (85 hp) at 8,000 rpm and 86 Nm of torque at 5,800 rpm.

Acceleration to 100 km/h is of the order of 3.5 seconds, making the F 800 a remarkably brisk machine.

The athletic F 800 motorcycles are the first of a progressive and completely new series.

With a dry weight of 182kg (F 800 S) and 187 kg (F 800 ST) and a ready-to-ride weight of 204 kg / 209 kg, pure riding pleasure is guaranteed.

Optimal handling is assured due to the precise suspension design. Classical BMW virtues such as safety, the fulfilment of the highest environmental standards and perfect ergonomics for both rider and pillion are set to define the new benchmark and thus the leading role in the middleweight class.

A computer-controlled three-way catalytic converter, state-of-the-art digital engine electronics as well as optional (new generation) ABS are also BMW typical brand features for this motorcycle.

The F 800 is powered by the first parallel twin production engine from BMW Motorrad. The engine is a completely new design, developed in cooperation with Bombardier- Rotax GmbH. It is manufactured in the Austrian Rotax plant and supplied to the Berlin production line ready for assembly.

The first twin-cylinder in-line engine in the history of BMW Motorrad is equipped with a four-valve head and the high compression of 12:1 together with a combustion chamber design based on the new K engine result in effective low-emission combustion.

Fuel consumption is consequently well below the class average. Mass compensation for the crank train eliminates unwanted vibrations, without losing the strong characteristics of the twin-cylinder motor.

The compact drive unit with an integrated six-speed transmission is designed to deliver balanced engine performance and uncomplicated riding pleasure.

For the final drive, BMW Motorrad chose the easy-to-maintain and low-noise belt.

Lighter than a shaft, belt drive represents the optimum in terms of smooth operation, low weight, space efficiency and durability for this performance class.

With a power output delivering 62.5 kW and extremely strong torque, the new BMW
F 800 S is the perfect motorcycle for riders with sporting ambition.

For those interested in a more touring-friendly package will be impressed with the seating position of the F 800 ST.

The cost options on Australian market F 800 models include Anti-lock brakes ($1250), Tyre Pressure control ($375), on-board computer ($325), white indicator lenses ($65), on board alarm ($495), while a lower seat is a no cost option. For the BMW F 800 ST model, there is the additional option of pannier fastenings ($125).

The BMW F 800 S will be introduced to the Australian public at the Melbourne Motorcycle Expo on 6th October, and will be given a full work out by the World Stuntriding Champion, Christian Pfeiffer, at the Brisbane Motorcycle Expo on the 3rd November.

This year Chris has won Stunt Wars in Florida, USA and the European Stuntriding crown on a close-to-showroom spec F 800 S, proving the new BMW a winner out-of-the-box.

For further information contact:
Alexander Corne
Communications and Specialist Media Manager
BMW Group Australia
Phone: 03 9264 4150
Fax: 03 9562 2799
Mobile: 0439 568 819
Email: alexander.corne@bmw.com.au