In adoration for F800R

BMW F800R
Stunt bikes similar to rally cars have messy decals all-over and yet purposeful-looking enough to acquire status as every big boy's dream toy. Stunt bike replicas sell equally as well, with an indication of proven performance and engineered design to match its extreme brethren. BMW's new middleweight F800R is the street version of stunt champion Chris Pfeiffer's BMW twister - with great handling and speed.

The F800R is a twin-powered 798cc naked roadster that is bound to spice up the middleweight category competition with the likes of the Triumph Street Triple and much-tamer Honda Hornet. We had the privilege to ride this sexy-looking beast pretty hard (and perhaps lay any demons to rest), with courtesy of Performance Motors Ltd, the sole distributor for BMW cars and bikes.

The new F800R houses a liquid-cooled DOHC Parallel Twin powering up to 87 horsepower at 8,000rpm with 63 lb-ft torque at 6,000rpm - it may not be a big-horsepower motor but it works extremely well for potential buyers who want a daily commuter; a back-street racer, city blaster and an occasional short-range tourer all-rounded into a single machine. The F800R is definitely worth considering for an all-in-one bike. Not forgetting the fact that it is a BMW.

Remember when they say first impression counts? The first glance, F800R projects an aura of a performance bike that is beautifully designed and loaded with goodies galore, hence, a tricked ride to boot. The F800R sits pretty low and upon mounting, riders of the average Singaporean height (and even pillions) will find it a delight for daily use.

The switches are easily accessible; the display gives you the information you need, except a fuel read-out which is mix of both digital and analog. There are further upgrades for the digital dash if you desire more information but we would not recommend it as you should be looking ahead in enjoyment most of the time.

The keyword in handling the F800R is nimble and user-friendly. I nearly forgot about riding on a 798cc bike as it simply allowed me to become its master within just a few moments of our bonding period.

As usual, I normally begin with a mixture of figure-8s, soft and hard braking before giving it a bit of a ‘go' on the straights. I am always skeptical of big bikes attempting tight figure-8s but the F800R simply overwhelmed me as I was truly astounded by the handling prowess and agility. Riding position is upright when in relaxed or touring mode and despite the naked front, thrusting the F800R forward for those short bursts of speed was indeed comfortable.

The F800R's 798cc engine delivered a sweet mixture of low rpm torque and as mentioned, was definitely a delight to ride, especially during my "scenery riding" along the Bukit Timah stretch. City-riding came next with the constant stops and starts but BMW's newest member passed with flying colours. The bike was so nimble that maneuvering it around tight corners could possibly be done on one hand alone - not recommended unless you are Chris Pfeiffer of course. The F800R may not be throttle "trigger-happy" but the response was instantaneous with the very torquey motor translating light wrist actions into a much smoother and a less manic ride, unless you get bored and start pushing it; The F800R is definitely ready to play.

The F800R uses conventional forks upfront, unlike BMW's traditional Telelever system, which is arguably better but much dearer in cost. The brakes on the F800R are pretty impressive with dual 320mm rotors clamped on 4-piston Brembo calipers in the front and supported by a 265mm single disc and single-piston caliper in the rear. To top it off, the bike is also fitted with ABS and when compared to its sibling the sporty F800S, the ‘R' comes with a stiffer double-sided swingarm. Rear-wheel stunts anyone?

To conclude, the BMW F800R certainly looks the part as a stripped-down naked middleweight streetfighter, while retaining the distinct (and quirky) looks of the German motor-maestro. At $25,800 machine price, it's also value for money as well, considering you are still looking at the latest incarnation of the Motorrads and if you think the looks are still not up to your premium standards, the F800R is still very customisable with plenty of optional goodies from BMW.

Oh, did we mention that Chris Pfeiffer's stunt bike of choice has a top speed of over 200km/h?

Go for it!

BMW F800R Specifications
Engine: Parallel Twin, 4 valves, DOHC
Displacement: 798cc
Bore and Stroke: 82 x 75mm
Cooling: Liquid
Horsepower: 87 horsepower @ 8,000rpm
Torque: 63 lb-ft torque @ 6,000rpm
Wheelbase: 1,519mm
Seat Height: 800mm
Front Suspension: 43mm fork
Rear Suspension: Single shock, adjustable for preload and rebound
Front Brake: Dual 320mm disc, 4-piston Brembo calipers
Rear Brake: Single 265mm disc with single-piston caliper
Claimed Weight: 204 kg (with fuel) 182 kg dry

Motor Shiok! (What we like)
• Very, very easy to handle. You sure it's not Chris Pfeiffer's stunt bike?
• Comfortable sitting posture.
• Value for money for a "streetfighter-style" BMW.

Motor Aiyoh! (what you must consider)
• No fuel display.
• Inverted forks would be nicer.

This article was contributed by Motor Culture.

To test ride the BMW F800R, call Performance Motors Ltd at 6310 0500 or visit www.pml.com.sg for more information.

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