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We tested the BMW F 900 XR: 105 hp of success in the form of a multipurpose motorcycle, for 11,950 euros
We tested the BMW F 900 XR: 105 hp of success in the form of a multipurpose motorcycle, for 11,950 euros

Video: We tested the BMW F 900 XR: 105 hp of success in the form of a multipurpose motorcycle, for 11,950 euros

Video: We tested the BMW F 900 XR: 105 hp of success in the form of a multipurpose motorcycle, for 11,950 euros
Video: 2022 BMW F900R | Naked, Refined, & Advanced German Sports Bike (but... is it fun?) 2024, March
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The BMW F 900 XR It has raised a lot of excitement since its presentation at the Milan Motor Show, and no wonder. This new asphalt trail style motorcycle or "adventure sport" as its creators call it has come to stay.

With a two-cylinder engine and 105 hp for a set of 219 kg in running order, the second member of the XR family expands its radius of action thanks to a body with good coverage, aggressive aesthetics and a driving position that borders on perfection.

BMW F 900 XR: a new personality

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 001
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 001

Looking at the BMW F 900 XR with an F 900 R next to it is like playing to find the differences. They are very, very similar motorcycles since they share the same base, but there are differences here and there that ultimately manage to create a model with its own personality, especially if it is taking a good base like that of the roadster and providing the extra aggressiveness of the new look released for the (now) XR family.

And it is that the film changes a lot. Without underestimating the F 900 R, the BMW F 900 XR is a success on the part of BMW. The Germans have taken over from the F 800 GT as a road reference, but adapting it to the canons set by the market, more oriented to motorcycles of asphalt trail styling and aggressive aesthetics.

According to BMW, the "adventure sport" concept is associated with sporty bikes and they have become a new aspirational segment that is complemented by a relaxed riding posture, good aerodynamic protection and plenty of equipment. In this vein is where the Germans have wanted to delve, offering a motorcycle that does not have much competition at the moment in the market (average asphalt trail of more than 95 CV).

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 002
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 002

Obviously the first thing that strikes us about the BMW F 900 XR is its aesthetics, with a powerful appearance and a great load of personality thanks to that front with dual LED optics. It is true that there is not much bodywork, but the one there is is very well elaborated despite its simple lines.

The central part is emphasized by a lower lip on the headlights that is accompanied towards its vanishing point by some side covers that remain as if floating, partially hiding a second layer that joins the front with the fuel tank. Aerodynamic protection is complemented by a set of hand guard.

At the rear there are not too many changes and it is almost exactly the same bike as the F 900 R, including the bench seat, the flattened tail, the passenger handles and the exaggeratedly long rear license plate holder. In short, this F 900 XR is much more graceful at the front than at the rear.

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 006
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 006

But apart from the cosmetic changes, there are also changes that directly affect the rider beyond the different aerodynamic protection. The ergonomic triangle has been modified to offer a position more in line with its claims as a motorcycle for everything, but above all as a motorcycle to travel with guarantees.

Leaving aside the patina of sportiness impregnated on the F 900 R, the F 900 XR has the footrests that are more forward and lower and the handlebars that are closer to the body and higher. This new position, together with the front of the fairing and the screen with the possibility of manual adjustment, become a really interesting option for those who want a versatile motorcycle.

More than just BMW genetics

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 001
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 001

As soon as we put our rear on the seat of the small XR we notice that there is a notable difference in the driving position, more pleasant, but also in how we get to the ground. The additional 10 mm compared to the F 900 R are noticeable, although they are not an impediment to being able to move well while standing with it since the arch of the legs is narrow and allows us to reach the ground with solvency.

Once again, in front of us the 6.5 inch TFT screen which acts as a completely digital control panel. A frame that is better integrated (logically) in this F 900 XR than in the naked one, but whose operation and functions are identical, controlling everything from the left hand side with a dedicated button and the rotary knob.

Using the keyless start of this unit, at the push of a button we make the dashboard come to life and, immediately afterwards, we invite the engine to start turning. The sound is very Euro5, inconspicuous and demure, although with that metallic and hoarse touch of the motorcycles of the German house.

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 003
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 003

At first, if we compare it with the F 900 R, the BMW F 900 XR may seem cumbersome, wider or difficult to move at low speed, but nothing could be further from the truth. The more upright position and a wider handlebar higher and closer to the rider allows a total control over a motorcycle that is allowed to be done without question.

In the mechanical section, the engine is exactly the same that we have already seen in the BMW F 900 R: a twin cylinder in parallel with the base of the average GS, which has had its displacement increased and the appropriate adjustments made. Now cubes 895 cubic centimeters and generates 105 hp and 92 Nm of torque.

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 009
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 009

No, they are not surprising figures, but they are figures that are more than valid for an intermediate category (and with a limited version option for the A2 card) with which he can cope with ease. And that is not a motorcycle that shines for its lightness with 219 kg in running order.

The drivetrain offers a decisive character, with a resounding mid-range, good lows and better highs. It's a Elastic twin cylinder with a desire to stretch Who does not dislike turning high revs, on the contrary. It is in the lower revs where we find some roughness in the response, and that thanks to the double balancing shaft it works in a very fine way.

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 004
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 004

BMW's DNA is implanted in each and every one of its motorcycles, but the F range is perhaps one of the most homogeneous at all levels. This F 900 XR shares the steel monocoque chassis, subframe and swingarm with the F 850 GS and F 750 GS, and in turn is almost a clone of the BMW F 900 R that we have tested together.

However, there are notable differences in practice between one and the other beyond aesthetics. The geometries applied are considerably different and thus, from the outset, we find some suspensions with a superior travel.

The front inverted fork is the same at 43mm but now has 170mm of travel (+35mm) and the rear monoshock offers 172mm (+30mm) travel. It may seem like a minor change, but this extra offset on both trains offers a more progressive feel than on its naked sister. The F 900 XR can digest better that dryness that is perceived in sudden potholes on the F 900 R.

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 014
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 014

Still the behavior of the cycle part is just as good. In addition, not so much weight is loaded on the front axle, achieving a more plumb steering feel and a somewhat more consistent footprint than in the F 900 R. It is true that it is not so agile but it is by no means a boring bike.

This suspension extension has another derivative, and that is that the geometries have been considerably revised. Apart from the obvious longer travel of the suspensions, the advance goes from 114.3 to 105.2 mm for the same 60º of launch. For its part, the battle grows from 1,518 mm to 1,521 mm, an extra 3 mm. Translated on the road, the F 900 XR feels a bit more poised despite what he has gained in height.

The rise of the "adventure sport"

Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 004
Bmw F 900 Xr 2020 Test 004

When it comes to putting where the BMW F 900 XR is in perspective, we have to do a special synthesis exercise, because It is not a motorcycle that I enjoy with many competitors, and that is precisely where his greatest virtue currently resides.

Yes, there are motorcycles that can look like a Yamaha Tracer 900 (11,599 euros), Ducati Multistrada 950 (14,590 euros) or KTM 790 Adventure (12,599 euros) but their concept is something different. The most similar in concept and price would be the Tracer 900, but it is a motorcycle that is already beginning to undergo renovation.

Bmw F 900 R F 900 Xr 2020 Test
Bmw F 900 R F 900 Xr 2020 Test

And yes, the price of 11,950 euros It is almost 3,000 euros higher than that of the BMW F 900 R, a difference hardly justifiable for the changes between the roadster and the trail, but when asking those responsible for the brand the answer was clear: it is not that the F 900 XR is very expensive, is that they have gone to great lengths to adjust the price of the F 900 R and put it in the even more competitive war of the naked socks.

In any case, The BMW F 900 XR is a success by the German factoryIt is a more comfortable motorcycle in general, more welcoming and that is even aesthetically attractive. Its radius of action is wider and it can be equipped as much as the customer is willing to pay.

BMW F 900 R 2020 - Assessment

7.3

Motor 8 Vibrations 8 Change 7 Stability 7 Agility 7 Front suspension 7 Rear suspension 7 Front brake 8 Back brake 6 Pilot comfort 8 Passenger comfort N / A Consumption N / A Finishes 7 Esthetic 8

In favor

  • Usable and refined engine
  • Aerodynamic protection
  • Absence of vibrations
  • General comfort

Against

  • High price
  • Slight roughness at low revs
  • Non-adjustable front suspension
  • Cost of optional equipment
  • BMW F 900 XR 2020 - Technical sheet

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    • Trail
    • Testing area
    • Bmw
    • Motorcycle news 2020
    • BMW F 900 XR

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