1. Concept, claim and characteristics.
2. Vehicle characteristics and technology.
3. Range of equipment.
4. Engine output and torque.
5. Technical data.

1. The new BMW F 800 GS.
The other Adventure twin.

Just one look and the F 800 GS tells you all you need to know about where it wants to go. It wants to go off on an adventure, and it wants to go now.

BMW Motorrad Australia is excited to be launching the new F 800 GS, possibly the most anticipated new motorcycle of 2008.

Since its global reveal almost one year ago, excitement has been building through the BMW dealer network and among potential customers, but now the wait is finally over and the F 800 GS has arrived.

It is priced from AUS$16,750 (NZ$19,958) plus dealer delivery and on road costs and it is ready to take on the good, the bad and the ugly roads of Australia. For a short trip or a long journey, gravel, dirt or tar, the BMW

F 800 GS is the ideal transport to varied destinations both and off road.

Demonstrating impressive agility at all types of speeds through the vast open spaces or the crowded, traffic-chocked cities, its riding position gives a great view of the road ahead.

Although the engine will be familiar to F 800 S/ST fans, the rest of the machine is all new. There's a completely new frame and new suspension with new spring and shock absorber units, designed to delight even the most demanding riders.

Unlike the BMW F 800 S/ST, the BMW F 800 GS uses a light chain drive, which, in combination with a very strong and stiff aluminium profile double-strut swing arm, offers traction advantages in off-road riding.

The BMW F800GS offers an attractive combination of abilities to give the rider the maximum potential for enjoyment. And of course there is a large array of BMW Motorrad options and accessories with which to personalise their purchase.

Standard Australian and New Zealand market features include heated grips, on board computer, LED indicators and a centre stand. Key factory fitted options include switchable ABS at AUS$1,265 (NZ$1,508), anti-theft alarm AUS$505, (NZ$602) and a low seat (no cost option).

For further press/media information contact:

Tim James
Product Communications Manager
BMW Group Australia
Phone: 03 9264 4150
Fax: 03 9562 2799
Mobile: 0439 568 819
Email: Tim.James@bmw.com.au

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2. The new BMW F 800 GS.
In detail.

For BMW Motorrad, "GS" is not an empty promise.

The new BMW F800GS is set to continue the legend of the GS brand established by the Boxer-engined R 80 G/S and enhanced over many subsequent generations, along with the single-cylinder BMW F 650 GS models which secured impressive success at the highest level in adventure rallying.

In Australia, the R 1200 GS is BMW Motorrad's single biggest seller, and the F 650 GS single-cylinder predecessor was also one of the most popular models in the line-up. With that in mind it is not surprising that levels of anticipation have reached an all time high in the lead up to the arrival of the new F 800 GS.

Where some large-capacity adventure bikes sometimes reach their limits because of their weight or overall design, the new BMW F 800 GS will prove to be unstoppable.

The F 800 GS combines stability, high power and light weight, excellent ground clearance, long suspension travel, precise steering and sophisticated ergonomics; all of which delivers excellent off-road riding and excellent long-distance performance.

The chassis combines all the ingredients of a true adventure bike: a sturdy steel tube frame with a wide 42degrees of steering lock, rigid upside-down forks with 230 mm of travel, a sturdy aluminium double-strut swing arm with a path-dependent cushioned spring strut and 215mm of suspension travel, and solid wire-spoke wheels.

A 21-inch front wheel in the traditional 90/90-21 tyre size gives stability in slow off-road riding, and the 17-inch rear wheel is shod with a 150/70-17 tyre to ensure engine power is always transferred securely to the ground.

The engine is borrowed from the BMW F 800 S and modified for GS duties, with its cylinders now only inclined 8.3 degrees forward. The strong, liquid-cooled four-valve two-cylinder motor offers impressive, responsive performance with high torque and low fuel consumption.

The engine produces 63kW (85hp) at 7,500rpm and 83 Nm of torque at 5,750rpm.

The engine uses a unique balancer shaft to ensure smooth running. This comprises an additional swivelling con-rod that balances the first and second level mass forces to reduce vibration.

A low dry weight of 178 kg makes a major contribution to dynamic riding properties. When fuelled, and ready to ride, the BMW F 800 GS tips the scales at just 207 kg.

The F 800 GS offers an excellent level of seat comfort for both rider and pillion passenger, along with a high standard of safety features.

The two-channel switchable BMW ABS system is available as an option.

The main features of the new BMW F 800 GS:

• Mid-size adventure machine with a strong off-road bias. Easy to ride and ideal for both fun and serious adventures.
• Powered by a liquid-cooled parallel twin, 798cc, four-valve head and unique mass balancer shaft for smoothness.
• Fuel injection with electronic engine management, plus lambda probe and regulated three-way catalytic converter.
• Close ratio six-speed transmission for excellent riding performance.
• Dirt-resistant secondary drive via O-ring chain.
• Torsion-resistant tubular steel frame with reinforced steering head.
• Tight turning circle.
• Stiff USD forks with upright tube diameter 45 mm.
• Aluminium swing arm.
• Rear suspension features adjustable spring pre-load and adjustable rebound damping.
• Long travel suspension for off-road comfort.
• Excellent seat comfort for rider and pillion passenger.
• Under-seat fuel tank to aid stability, lower centre of gravity. Easy access fuel filler beside seat.
• Powerful brakes, with optional, switchable, ABS.
• Air filter and battery positioned behind steering head for easy access.
• Wide range of accessories for off-road and touring use.

BMW F800GS Specification at a glance:

• 63kW (85hp)
• Valve timing derived from F800S
• Off-road-style fairings
• High windscreen
• USD telescopic fork
• Spoked wheels, 21-inch front / 17" rear
• Double-disc brake, floating, front
• Aluminium handlebar
• 880/850mm seat height (high seat option available 920mm)
• Ready-to-ride weight 207kg
  

A young favourite at the heart of the new F 800 GS.

The parallel twin engine used in the new BMW F 800 GS is very similar to that used in the successful F800S/ST models. The engine has been subtly modified to cope with the intended purpose of the new machine.

For excellent suspension travel and good weight distribution, the cylinders are now only angled forward by 8.3 degrees instead of the 30 degrees with the F800S/ST. This was made possible by a new design for the lower engine housing section made from die-cast aluminium which contains attachment points for the engine bash guard. Plus, the cylinder head has been reinforced where it attaches to the frame at the front.

A redesigned clutch cover allows easier manoeuvring when on the pegs, and creates room for a new oil dipstick and a different clutch release shaft.

Finally, the water pump housing and cooling hose connections have been adapted to the new position of the engine.

A bonus is that these modifications shave 1 kg off the engine's weight compared with that of the F 800 S/ST models.

The transverse parallel twin works with an even firing order (360°ignition offset) without crank offset on the crankshaft. Because there is one firing cycle for each crankshaft rotation, the sound is deliberately like that of boxer engines which work with an identical firing offset. Most importantly, however, this configuration provides excellent power and torque characteristics for a mid size GS machine.

Unique mass balance.

The mass forces of the piston and con rod are offset by a balancing mechanism that is unique in production engine design. Instead of having conventional counterweight shafts, the oscillating mass forces are balanced by a joint system on the centre of the crankshaft with specifically positioned counterweight masses: an eccentric on the crankshaft, offset against the crank pins by 180°, carries what is known as a balancing correcting rod. This connecting rod is hinged to an approximately horizontal balancing rocker.

The balancing connecting rod moves contrary to the two engine connecting rods. Because it is guided through the relatively long rocker, an almost linear swivel movement of the connecting rod head is achieved. In actual fact the small connecting rod eye describes a slightly curving path.

The mass distribution at the connecting rod head and rocker is chosen in such a way that the mass forces resulting from the swinging movement combat, in every crankshaft position, the oscillating mass forces from the crank drive (piston and con-rod proportion). This means that first and second order mass forces are almost completely eliminated, resulting in low-vibration engine running.

Lubrication system.

The oil circulation system also includes a number of sophisticated details.

In order to prevent puncture losses, a semi-dry sump lubrication system has been designed which works without any separate engine oil tank. Lubricant flowing from the main bearings collects in a tray which also holds the balancing system and which is sealed off from the actual oil tray. Engine oil in this area is constantly vacuumed up by an oil pump and transported
to the transmission housing, before running from there, under no pressure, via openings in the crank housing into the oil tray. The oil pressure pump supplies the lubricating oil system from this reservoir.

Camshafts matched to enduro requirements.

The GS boasts a high tech cylinder head, derived from K Series technology. A pair of camshafts driven by a toothed chain, rotate and control four valves per cylinder via cam followers.

The F800GS uses slightly modified camshafts which help the engine develop its power in a way that is ideal for adventure machines: with excellent torque that is evenly delivered and easily controllable. The valve drive via cam followers is low-wear, only produces minimal friction losses and is particularly rev-proof. The valve play therefore only needs to be checked after 20,000 km.

Fuel injection uses BMS-KP engine control and two 46mm throttle valves. The injection quantity is determined by the specially tuned engine control, not only via the injection period but also via the pressure that the petrol pump provides, driven by the power requirement.

The fuel system operates without return and only carries the quantity that the engine actually needs. Because of this economical, patented regulation system, the fuel pressure can be modified within a wide range so that the mixture is always ideal. To measure the fuel quantity supplied, not only the well-known parameters such as load, engine speed and temperature are used, but also the residual oxygen content in the exhaust gas.

A lambda probe is positioned where the manifolds join. This is followed immediately by the three-way catalytic converter, which warms up quickly.

Intake air is fed by snorkels that poke out into the air stream, sited well above the engine, ideal for all types of riding environments. The openings are visible alongside the headlamp fairing.

Exhaust system.

The completely new, weight-optimised exhaust system is made from high-grade steel and weighs in at just 8.5 kg. The single-wall manifold system is connected with the silencer via a plug connection with tension spring. The attachment of a slip-on silencer is therefore easy and inexpensive, especially since the catalytic converter is integrated into the manifold. The end silencer is constructed as a two-chamber unit and offers a gas flow volume of 8 litres and is mounted on the left, half way up.

The F 800 GS is fitted with a secondary air system (SLS) which, in combination with the regulated catalytic converter, reduces the emission of pollutants to EU3 standards.

High-revving with great torque.

It is not only the modern injection system that ensures a prompt response from the F800GS twin; its low mass also contributes to its agile power development. Even at the bottom of its rev range, the four-valve engine, with a bore-stroke of 82 mm and 75.6 mm, is not short-stroked. Thus it is able to rev freely to release 90 percent of maximum torque in a broad range between 4,000 rpm and 7,500rpm.

Peak power of 63kW is achieved at 7,500rpm while 83Nm of peak torque arrives at just 5,750rpm.

In combination with the low total weight and closely stepped six-speed gearbox, the engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in about 4 seconds, and the top speed is in excess of 200km/h.

But it is not only the acceleration of the new GS model that is impressive; its traction is also remarkable. BMW development engineers have focussed quite deliberately on the smooth, confident development of power in the mid engine speed range rather than on absolute peak performance. Sporting riders will enjoy the engine's acceleration, while adventure riders will enjoy positive traction with minimal gear-shifting.

Low fuel use is a further strength with consumption of less than 5-litres (of Premium) per 100 km expected.

If necessary, the F800GS can be switched to run on regular unleaded (via CIP programming), with a marginal drop in output and a small increase in consumption.

The water pump is fitted on the right of the cylinder head and is gear driven by a cog wheel unit on the camshaft. As it is located directly behind the cooler with an integrated thermostat, only short hose connections are needed. The engine therefore looks compact and tidy.

An oil-water heat exchanger sited next to the easily accessible oil filter ensures that the engine warms up quickly after a cold start. In addition, the heat exchanger also limits the engine oil temperature.

Rear wheel drive via robust O-ring chain.

Due to the nature of adventure riding, the secondary drive needs to be impervious to dust and dirt. The F 800 GS is fitted with an O-ring chain.

A chain guide rail protects the aluminium sing arm from damage. Four asymmetrical drive dampers provide shock absorption for the chain wheel bearer which is taken exactly over the full-floating axle via a grooved ball bearing.

The six-speed transmission is borrowed from the F800S/ST models and only the transmission output shaft to the chain drive and the final drive ratio have been modified.

A sturdy tubular steel frame.

The tubular steel frame was designed especially for the new GS model.

The slim steering head is integrated into the frame structure and allows 42 degrees of lock. The steering head is fixed using a completely new layout of gusset plates which have considerably reduced the design width without affecting the stability of the frame.

The steering lock is also improved by placing the ignition lock in front of the handlebar.

Off-road, the small turning circle is useful when negotiating difficult terrain at walking pace.

The tubular space frame made from manganese-alloy steel integrates the engine as a load-bearing element.

The frame tubes join the engine using forged steel nodes. The rear of the frame is made from rectangular steel sections, connected by four special fasteners and carries the new 16-litre fuel tank, positioned under the seat.

This frame design allows the front part of the seat to be narrow allowing even shorter riders to have good control and balance, especially when on uneven ground.

Made-to-measure telescopic forks.

Because of the very long 230 mm of front suspension travel, an upside-down telescopic fork is the best choice for the F800GS. The overlapping of the fixed and sliding tubes is large with this design, since the fixed tube diameter of 45 mm ensures excellent resistance to bending. Plastic deflectors combined with the front wheel covers provide protection against stones.

Aluminium swing arm at rear.

The rear suspension is similarly robust. It is based on an aluminium arm, die-cast in a single piece. The F800GS uses a directly hinged central spring strut with 215 mm suspension travel.

Spring pre-load can be adjusted using a handwheel, so that the rear wheel suspension can easily be adjusted for one- and two-person use. The damping stroke of the suspension can also easily be adjusted to individual requirements.

Wheels and tyres fit for the job.

The F800GS uses aluminium spoked wheels, 21 x 2.15 at the front and 17 x 4.25 at the rear. The front wheel size of 21-inches, usual for a machine in this class, gives greater riding stability because of the greater gyroscopic forces. Dual terrain style tyres are fitted as standard.

The F800GS has 90/90-21 tyres at the front and 150/70-17 items at the rear.

Braking systems matched to each model.

The front wheel of the F 800 GS has two fully floating brake discs 300 mm in diameter and double-piston sliding callipers.

At the front, the steel-reinforced brake lines are routed so they do not push through the cockpit fairing when the telescopic fork is compressed. At the rear there is a 265 mm disc with single-piston sliding calliper.

Switchable two-channel ABS with improved rear wheel anti-hop detection.

The F 800 GS may be optionally specified with two-channel ABS. The current generation of BMWMotorradABS has a compact design and low weight, and provides short braking distances.

The pressure modulator controls the optimum braking pressure in the regulating range via intake valves that are adjusted on a linear basis and is characterised by its very fast, fine regulating intervals. The valves have infinitely variable cross-section openings to ensure that the rider only perceives a slight pulsing in the brake levers.

The BMW Motorrad ABS offers expanded diagnosis functions: the wheel revolution sensors monitor their distance from the sensor wheel automatically and thus contribute to the vehicle's outstanding safety. The ABS can be switched off for off-road use if required.

On-board electrics with CAN bus and immobiliser.

The electrical systems in the new F 800 GS models features an innovative CAN bus system. As in the F 800 S/ST model series, the single-wire system (SWS) has many advantages: it reduces the amount of cable required, allows all control devices to be networked and thus simplifies the preparation of comprehensive diagnoses. In addition, there is no need for conventional fuse cut-outs, since the system automatically switches off the component in question in the event of a malfunction.

Since the introduction of CAN bus technology, an electronic immobiliser has been part of the BMW Motorrad standard equipment. To start the engine, more than just the right key is required. The chip integrated into the BMW key must report the right code to the ring antenna of the combined steering and ignition lock. Only then does the engine control allow the engine to be started. This technology offers the safest, most reliable protection against vehicle theft available.

The electrical plug connections are waterproof. A 14 ampere-hour battery and a 400 W generator ensure a reliable power supply.

The cockpit, with its stacked analogue instruments and its information display including on-board clock provides the rider with plenty of information at a glance. The on-board computer displays fuel tank levels, gear position, coolant temperature, average fuel consumption, range to empty, outside temperature and a stop watch function.

A button on the left handlebar allows the rider to cycle through the displays and to select the information required. It is also used to operate the stop watch.

The asymmetrical double headlight with glass-clear plastic cover gives the GS models an instantly recognisable BMW look. The lamps are similar to the BMW R1200GS and are prized by night-time riders because of their superb spread of light. They are enclosed in a new plastic housing and are fitted with two H7 headlight bulbs. On switching to high beam, the dipped beam remains active. The headlights are fixed using an unbreakable, lightweight plastic support connected to the cockpit. The strong plastic cladding is made from high-strength polypropylene.

Optimum seat design for touring and off-road use.

Typically, long travel suspension on an adventure bike results in an elevated seat height, but the F 800 GS does not require riders to be of large stature.

The waisted seat is offered in two heights: 880 or 850 mm with the option of a third that increased the height to 920mm). The streamlined frame allows a short arc length, giving ‘both feet on the ground' security for the vast majority of riders.

The seat is locked at the front in a vibration-absorbing holder. This layout means that there is an uninterrupted transition between the fairing, the frame and the seat.

For relaxed riding the new GS has a vibration-absorbent handle-bar - made from conically shaped aluminium tubing, and folding, wide steel foot pegs with hollow-chamber rubber inserts. To be able to stand securely in the pegs off-road, the rubber inserts can be removed (without tools).

The wide, upswept handlebars are fitted with easy-to-reach controls; the reach of the levers can be adjusted. The combined ignition/steering lock is conveniently positioned in front of the handlebars.

Pillion comfort has not been overlooked. The seat length and pegs allow the passenger to relax, while the long side grab handles at the rear provide a secure grip. Finally, the fairing offers some shelter. The tall, wind-tunnel optimised windscreen gives both rider and pillion plenty of protection.

The 16-litre under-seat tank allows extended range and also the convenience of being able to leave the tank bag in place when refuelling.

The fuel filler, situated on the right of the machine near the rear of the seat cushion has a lock.

The BMW F 800 GS will be available in two paint schemes: Sunset Yellow/Black or Dark Magnesium Metallic Matt.

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Special equipment and accessories.

BMW meets the need for personalisation not only through its special equipment, fitted ex-factory in Berlin, but also subsequently at BMW Motorrad dealers.

The special equipment and very extensive range of special accessories have been tailored to suit the new F800GS.

Special equipment.

• BMW Motorrad ABS (can be switched off). $1,265 ($1,508 NZ)
• Low rider's seat (850 mm for F 800 GS/790mm seat)\* no cost option
• Anti-theft alarm.\* $505 ($602 NZ)
• Engine remapping for 91RON (via CIP programming).

Alarm.

Once activated, the anti-theft alarm reacts to any change in position of the parked motorcycle with very clear visual and audible signals. It can be deactivated via a remote control or using the ignition key.

Special accessories.

• Luggage bridge, small.
• Luggage rest, large, for Vario topbox.
• Vario topbox, black.
• Pannier holder for Vario pannier.
• Vario pannier, black.
• Inside pockets for Vario pannier and Vario topbox.
• Back cushion for Vario topbox.
• Tank bag, waterproof.
• Softbag Sport, small.
• Softbag Sport, large.
• Low seat.\*
• High rider's seat (920mm, standard for F800 GS 880mm.)
• BMW Motorrad Navigator II.
• Navigator holder, cable and attachment kit.
• Navigator Function bag.
• Hand protection bars.
• Protectors (small, medium or large) for hand protection bars.
• Engine protection bars.
• Splash protection extension, rear.
• Low windscreen.
• Touring windscreen.
• High windscreen, tinted.
• Akrapovic sports silencer.
• Wind deflector kit (radiator shroud).
• Service tool kit.
• Enduro tail bag.

Products marked with \* are also available ex factory.

Flexible storage space with Vario panniers and Vario topbox.

The familiar, variable-volume pannier (left: 19-29litre / right: 28-38 litre) have been modified to fit the new F 800 GS. Thanks to the carefully conceived carrier system, the cases can be attached and removed quickly.

A 25-35 litre topbox is also available, big enough for a helmet. A rear cushion for the pillion is also available to be fitted to the front of the topbox. The inside pockets for the panniers protect luggage from dirt and damage.

Tank bag for small items of luggage.

The tank bag is a truly practical travelling companion. Because the tank is positioned underneath the seat, the bag does not need to be removed to refuel. The tank bag has a variable capacity of 14 to 26 litres and has a waterproof inside pocket so that no extra covering is required when travelling in the rain. The equipment also includes a waterproof map compartment and a store for small tools which can be accessed via the main compartment from the inside.

BMW Motorrad NavigatorII.

With this navigation system, the rider selects an address, a city, a tourist destination or a way point. The BMW Motorrad NavigatorII guides him, with detailed instructions, safely and effortlessly to his destination - by the fastest or shortest route, as he requires, or directly ("as the crow flies"). The display can be varied too: the rider can choose a map display, a combination of map and instructions, a roadbook or a compass function that displays the distance and direction to the next way point. A zoom function makes rapid orientation easier, at intersections, for example. Voice guidance using a helmet installation kit is possible in nine languages.

Hand protector with spoiler.

The three-part hand protector made from impact-resistant, continuously dyed plastic can take on a variety of protective functions, since individual modification is possible with the modular system. The hand protection bar deflects damage to the handlebar and conrols. The protector attachment is available in two sizes and protects hands from stones, whilst the spoiler provides additional protection against the cold and wet.

Akrapovic sports silencer.

The sports silencer in titanium and carbon made by Akrapovic fits without problems onto the original manifold system, which is fitted as standard with a regulated catalytic converter. It is a slip-on silencer fixed in place with springs. Using this silencer can save around 2 kg in weight compared with the standard system (not legal for road use in Australia).

Enduro tail bag.

This special tail bag attached behind the seat resists even the tough loads off-road. It contains several compartments and its outer fabric is not sensitive to dirt.

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4. Engine output and torque.

BMW F 800 GS

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5. Technical data.
BMW F800GS.

\*with lowering kit: payload 150 kg

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