Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakes
4 out of 5 (4/5)
BMW F800R was placed as an entry-level, sporty, naked urban machine to slot in amongst myriad 600cc middleweight bikes like the Yamaha FZ6, Triumph Street Triple, Honda Hornet and so on – even though its engine is 798cc!
- Related: BMW F900XR review - the F850's replacement
And we can cheerfully say it fits in. What the BMW conveys is the feel and ride of large capacity bike with a parallel twin engine that can be revved to give the excitement of a sports bike without intimidating anyone.
In fact, MCN is in a great position to let you know what the F800R is like, because we spent a year living with one back in 2015.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: Engine
5 out of 5 (5/5)
The feel of the BMW F800R is taut and precise. The chassis is stiff and the suspension has been developed to work in conjunction with the chassis.
Under braking and through the turn the bike is settled and feels compact, solid and… great. The rear shock is a little soft for pillion use but adjustments made (spring preload, damping) actually work. A goodly amount of steering lock and low-ish seat height make the F800R a good traffic-buster.
Engine
Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The 798cc twin lump delivers a sweet mixture of low rpm torque and accessible horsepower. The harder you work it the more the body produces adrenaline. Fuelling is perfect around town and will return a very pleasing 54mpg even when ragged on back roads. But with this excitement, from 5000rpm and on, comes niggling vibrations though the bars and pegs. You get used to this.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: Value
5 out of 5 (5/5)
One of the best put together BMW bikes we've seen. Everything fits perfectly and the coatings, paint and parts are sweet. But there again most bikes are like this from new. We all assume BMW has a reputation for quality, but there have been a few more complaints over the past 3-4 years, which BMW said it will address. On the plus side the engine is a known quantity because it figures in four other models and is well sorted now.
BMW F800R owners' reviews on MCN
Our BMW F800R owners' reviews show the bike is very reliabile.
Value vs rivals
Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)
Very, very competitively priced to start with and there's the benefit of BMW machines retaining high resale figures even with high mileage, but only if the service record is up to date.
Equipment
3 out of 5 (3/5)
To keep the cost down (at £5925 it is relatively cheap for a fun-time BMW) the F800R is as basic as its competitors, suspension and stunning front brakes aside. But if you've got the money to spare there's a ruck of optional extras and accessories available from onboard computer, tyre pressure monitor, ABS, higher/lower seat option (FOC), fly screen, belly pan, panniers etc, etc.
There's also a range of tuning parts available for the BMW F800R. Famous car tuning firm AC Schnitzer have a kit and bodywork firm Skidmarx also does parts for it.
BMW F800R Chris Pfeiffer replica
BMW sold just 68 of the limited-edition replicas of stunt rider Christian Pfeiffer's F800R.
The bike was built in honour of the four time world and european stunt champion, and is based on a standard F800R. A replica BMW motorsport blue/white/red paint scheme was the standout change, complete with a sticker kit you fit yourself (or not).
The front wheel was painted white and the rear black, just like Pfeiffer's own bike. The headlight cowl fitted to standard F800Rs is omitted for a stripped-back look, though a pillion seat cover is included.
An Akrapovic road legal end-can was fitted as standard as were a set of BMW genuine accessory LED indicators, and UK bikes had heated grips and an onboard computer as standard.
4 out of 5 It's a matter of taste
25 July 2021
Year: 2013
Annual servicing cost: £200
Something a bit different from the crowd
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
I love it's character, buzzy from 5k revs onwards, but point it into corners and it comes out the other side as planned without fussing. Abs isn't intrusive like some Honda's I have owned. Say adiós to traffic it handles so well at low speeds that filtering is something to look forward too, and you'll get off at the lights a lot quicker than the guy in the Audi next too you who has taken umbridge that your even there.
Engine 5 out of 5
This is the hook, it's the engine that makes the commute enjoyable. It's a little agricultural, buzzes at revs, but it's got soul. Pops on the overrun, pulls from low down, predictable and usable engine braking. Perfect in naked form.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
The main steering head bearing has required adjustment as it developed a slight knock but other than that it's needed nothing more than services over years of every day all year round riding and commuting. Chains held up well, acf50 means the shiny bits have stayed that way over UK winters
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Service isn't the cheapest, but money saved in fuel costs will more than cover this. It's so frugal it's a wonder other bike manufacturers haven't cottoned onto this yet. Cheap to buy, cheap to run
Equipment 4 out of 5
I have all the options, still glad it's chain driven as opposed to other versions using this powerplant.
Buying experience: Second hand with low miles, no fuss and they don't hold their price that well, so bargains to be had.
4 out of 5
02 September 2020 by Shane Leavesley
Version: 2019 Sport (BMW Motorsport colours)
Year: 2019
Annual servicing cost: £277
Purchased as a return to motorcycling after an absence due to lack of garage and having kids I wanted a bike that was comfortable and affordable for commuting. This was available on a great PCP deal so signed up to it. Decided to go with a naked to help keep the speed down. The bike does everything I need it to. Has a reasonable amount of power. Great brakes and is easy to ride. Corners well. The headlight is pretty useless night riding though if commuting at all hours and all year. My commute is A and B roads. Bike has now been superseded by the F900R and XR. This has impacted on value. Have seen dealers getting rid of new old stock with over £2000 off. Good for a buyer if they don't want the F900R not too good for me when I've had the bike for a year and owe more than I see new old stock being sold for. I have the sport model but didn't go with the extra dynamic and touring packs as that added another £1000 to cost and thought they weren't needed. This will impact resale value though.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Ride quality is fine. You'll read lots about vibration. Not an issue on my commute, longest ride of around 2 hours and my hands were feeling it. Mirrors aren't that great at certain speeds with the vibration. Brakes are awesome. Ride quality is fine, may get the taller screen as I'm fed up of getting hit with bugs on my commute now. If you want a reasonable bike that is relatively cheap to run it's a good option. Have the additional packs with luggage and a tall screen and you can go touring.
Engine 4 out of 5
Having come from online 4 to a twin there is a bit of difference. Also used to sports tourers that are a little bit faster. In fairness the twin does everything well. Yes it vibrates at certain speeds through the mirrors but I can live with that. Plenty of power for overtaking and from the go.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Reliable. Not had an issue to date with 2800 miles (limited due to Covid). Have a BMW service plan incorporated into the PCP plan so no need to budget for the servicing. Consumables I have had to have a rear LED as it broke possibly from having a cover over it. I ave oil but haven't needed a top up since service.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Three years servicing for £829. Insurance is reasonable. Tax as per motorcycle. So far haven't needed anything other than standard service. Good mpg.
Equipment 3 out of 5
This is where it is let down when compared to the likes of the Yamaha MT and other competitors. You have to pay a fair bit extra for add ons. I have the sport model in BMW motorsport colours. The sport gets rims with red pinstripe around, an engine cowl and rear pillion seat cowl. As standard it comes with rain and road mode. There is no temp, gear indicator TPMS unless you have the upgrades. You cannot retrofit these as they are factory options. If I had got the heated grips I believe I could have retrofitted the above items so they were shown on the LCD. I wish the sales person had known this when selling it me!! The new F900R and XR now come in different trim that offers most of the add ons. Trakker is fitted but I would think about having this again as it's £120 a year and I don't think I save that on insurance, although as it's not strictly garaged I thought it best to get it.
Buying experience: Purchased from a dealer. £9206 total cost with the BMW service plan included. Got a 0% PCP deal that without I would have probably purchase an older bike, but needing to get my no claims back opted for a mid range bike that could do what I needed well.
4 out of 5 Very satisfied so far.
25 September 2019 by MotoMikT
Version: Sport
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £400
I went from a KTM 690 Duke to this and both were great but the BMW is quicker and smoother for longer runs. Front brakes are in another league, super feel and power. Engine is great if odd sounding except for 4k5-5k5rpm == 70-80mph in 6th.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Mine came with ESR, useless as far as I can tell. The compression damping is pretty hard all the time but it's very planted. I haven't reached its limits performance wise. Head can get a wiggle at high throttle settings when hitting cats eyes but st.damper keeps it in control. Easy in town thanks to a low seat and low CoG. ABS seems to let go too much and can run on a lot when activated over bumps. KTM system seemed higher frequency but weaker brakes.
Engine 5 out of 5
Can tootle about below 4k5 without feeling slow, but staying relaxed. Changes can sometimes feel snatchy in 1,2 gears but you learn to minimise it. Above 6k to the redline it's free breathing and pulls hard in 4th after which the wind is telling you to chill a bit. 5th and 6th are quite close and at 50-60 I have a hard time knowing which I'm in.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
No issues with it so far but there are bits to clean which look like they'll be a nightmare like the super complex wheels! Chain looks like it's worn after only 4500 miles, maybe previous owners had it over tight.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Service and tyres about 400 I'm guessing per year. Running cost is about a tank (12l) per week (150 back road miles). About 20km (12.5miles) per litre.
Equipment 3 out of 5
Mine doesn't have the computer so there's no gear indicator and no digital speedo. The analogue one is a bit small and doing 30 without staring at the speedo is a challenge. 2nd and a crack of throttle but a TFT screen would be a godsend.
Buying experience: Bought from a dealer, without a FSH, but 3k6 miles and in immaculate condition. I'm half waiting for a gremlin but already added 1k5miles without any issues.
4 out of 5 AOK f800r
14 July 2017 by EO
Version: Loaded
Year: 2013
25k in 3.5 years, like power, Handles great, did raise handlebar 32mm, don't like, left ankle gets hot, cluster reflection terrible, no cruise, grips vibrate..
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Seat hard after long ryde, cushion pants helps. Can do exercises while ryding
Engine 5 out of 5
Like power
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
No problems
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Tyres $$$ michelin road pilot 4 24k service $$$$
Equipment 4 out of 5
Would like cruise control
Buying experience: Bought new 1 mile, all good, gave good trade in $$ on 2005 f650cs with 47k miles
4 out of 5
14 June 2017 by tunca
Version: Sport
Year: 2016
Great all rounder.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Comfortable ride. I can do 100 miles without any discomfort. Good comfort for the pillion in its category. Very good brakes. Some vagueness from the front when cornering. Vibrates a bit from 5000+ rpm.
Engine 5 out of 5
Great engine. Nice and smooth throttle response. Pulls from 3000 rpm.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
5700 miles and on. No quality issues so far.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
52 mpg.
Equipment 5 out of 5
ABS and TC work very well. My bike has also ESA fitted, but I can't feel the difference between the suspension modes very much.
4 out of 5 F800r personal review
10 May 2017 by EO
Year: 2013
At 24k miles, Left foot ankle gets hot, did raise handlebars 35 mm.., only things i would change.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
Added narrow bag on handlebar.. wish 12 volt plug was higher in centre of top cover
Buying experience: Bought New 1 mile, dealer gave good deal on trade of f650cs 48k miles, although wish i would have kept it too.
4 out of 5 BMW F800R 2011
25 June 2016 by Joe Bloggs
Year: 2011
handlebars and foot begs buzz at 80 MPH
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
unusual parallel twin noise. vibration damper does not work as advertised
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
heated grip and starter switch required replacement
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
cheap as chips to run
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 The Easy Rider
20 August 2015 by B_Shultz
Year: 2011
Overall it is easy to ride and will only ever become boring to speed fans. It's not the most beautiful bike, I'll admit, but the ride is easy and you never feel misplaced. Common driving school bike here in Germany.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Seat is comfy enough for 200 mile trips or even more, depending on your butt. However, the handle bar is quite café-racer-like. I swapped mine for a Rizoma, wider, flatter and straighter. If you have the urge to go nuts in corners the F800 will not deny you. The suspension is good all around, so from comfy to edgy/sporty is very well possible. No adjustments though except for preload on the rear shock. Comes with adjustment tool under the seat for adjustment on the fly. The brakes are more than enough for this bike. Two large 320mm discs with two calipers up front and 265mm single caliper brake in the rear by brembo will always stop you. Plus ABS, so deceleration is covered.
Engine 4 out of 5
The engine is usable between 1700rpm and 8500rpm, pulling steadily and without any surprises from 3500rpm onward. Speeds of 25mph in sixth gear are no issue, so it is useful for lazy shifters. It vibrates in the higher revs, but that was no surprise to me, since it's a twin. 360° ignition spacing are the main cause of vibration, which needs to be countered by a weight on a connecting rod. If high speeds are your regular goal then you should maybe look at the S1000R or MT-09 instead. With close to 90bhp it will get you up to around 140mph, but it will take some time. Acceleration is very sufficient though.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
I've only recently bought this bike, but a friend of mine has owned his from factory to now 30,000 miles and has not had a single technical issue whatsoever. Apart from some chipped paint and lacquer (MY 2009), which I cannot confirm on mine with 14.000 miles (MY 2011).
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Maintenance is genuinely easy on this bike, since the fuel tank sits underneath the seat rather than infront of the rider. Therefore the valvetrain etc. are easily accesible through the faux tank, which houses the battery and airfilter. Fuel economy is tremendous. I regularly clock in at about 58mpg when riding like a normal human. When I go nuts on open roads it's down to 48mpg, but that is still better than anything I've owned so far. Unlike most BMWs it's chain-driven, so die-hard chain-haters will have something to moan about. It doesn't come with a oil gauge, but with a dipstick as commonly found in cars.
Equipment 5 out of 5
I bought mine used and loaded with goodies nobody needs...heated grips, tyre pressure sensor, fuel gauge, gear indicator, LED signals (look much better than the standard ones, though), dash cowl, average fuel consumption, current consumption, average speed, thermometer..... MY 2009 also had a range calculator, but too many riders relied too heavily and complained about the function. MY 2010 and onward were delivered without the range calc.
4 out of 5 Secret enemy to a street triple
17 July 2015 by TezMcG
Year: 2010
Annual servicing cost: £190
Best Features: This bike is an excellent first big bike to ride. Due to the low centre of gravity it is excellent to manouvre at low and high speeds. It really is an all rounder and is just as happy touring round north Wales and beyond or going for a little play round the twisties. It doesn't struggle to keep pace with bigger motorcycles. It has plenty of pull when required and returns a healthy 55mpg based on normal/playful riding. It comes with plenty of kit options and people consider it to be a much more expensive bike than it really is due to the badge. I have the BMW side panniers and a 12v battery port which covers luggage and sat nav issues. Bad points: It's a naked so don't expect excellent resistance from the elements. The stock exhaust makes it sound like a lawnmower and is put to shame by other bikes when involved in a shouting competition. This is easily remedied by adding an after market can and accidentally removing the baffles. Once this has been done then the shouting competition is back on!
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Very very good all rounder - happy in any environment. Possibly weakest area is motorway riding due to it being a naked.
Engine 4 out of 5
Got plenty of grunt when required and has low down torque from the 800cc twin
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Due to be looked at by BMW to identify why won't start in gear with side stand up??
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Fuel economy is excellent
Equipment 4 out of 5
Really like the big gear indicator LCD display. Accessories to recommend would be 12v charger, side panniers and rear hugger
Buying experience: Bought from a dealer. Listed at £5000, bought for £4500 with additional options (panniers & 12v) fitted
5 out of 5 Best in blue.
24 June 2015 by Duncan Craig
Year: 2015
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
An improvement over the old bike, very chuckable.
Engine 4 out of 5
Has enough power for me just now, a torque delivery.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
No issues as yet yet.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Very good mpg and reliable.
Equipment 3 out of 5
I added the touring and sport packages as well as tire pressure monitors and panniers. I didn't bother with either the Asc or the Esa as I didn't feel there would be a benefit. I opted for the black and matt blue colour scheme which cost me £45.00 initially but has reduced my monthly payments as the bike has a higher residual value in this colour.
Buying experience: Fantastic service from Harry Fairbairn Inverness.
5 out of 5 BMW F800R Thanks for German's Engineers
20 June 2015 by Mark
Year: 2011
Annual servicing cost: £200
powerful and very easy to handle and ride
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
main dealer service cost £200 not bad at all
Equipment 5 out of 5
Buying experience: I bought it privately and I paid bit extra for the extra fitted equipment which for me much cheaper in total.
5 out of 5 F800r
10 July 2014 by olivier1015
Very easy to ride , great for commuting it has enough power when revved hard however easy to manage in London traffic when taken easy. Very Reliable bike so far so good !
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 BMW F800R
11 January 2013 by alfred53
I must agree that the bike can be a little snatchy at idle speeds but after some practice using the clutch to smooth things out it isn't an issue at all. Also agrees it can ping a little on heavy throttle at under about 2,800 but, again, no big deal here. I used a plug and play item that tricks the management system into thinking it's 20C cooler than it is (no problems here in Sydney) and that has richened up the mixture and helped a lot. No other issues though. A stable, great handling bike that inspires confidence, my friends on their 1000s and bigger are struggling to maintain pace in give and take situations. Top speed may be less but what does that matter on a naked bike. Fuel consumption can run to 70mpg doddling around. It is comfortable (for my 5'11 inches), well finished and has plenty of real world useable power. The vibrations they speak of are just no issue to those who are used to singles or twins. I have every factory option except panniers and flyscreen, plus centre stand, 12V socket and Oggie Knobs. If you can buy one with all the fruit it will sell better down the track. Best overall bike I've had
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 F800R(T)?
05 July 2011 by etienne_bear
I've had my F800R (with all the options ticked) for 6-months or so now and have almost converted it to a F800RT, including Autocom, DAB Radio, IPod connection and Satnav. The only way I could find to add a touring-standard windscreen that works was to combine three diferent aftermarket products, but it's sorted now. I've also added bar risers and just need to improve the seat comfort for longer journeys, but it's great already for my daily commute. It's a fantastic bike that combines the right amount of performance with frugal use of the juice. If it had a comfy seat and an option for a decent screen, it would get 5 stars.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 18 month update...
01 March 2011 by Hedgehog5
This bike just gets better... at 20K miles the engine is fully run-in now & pulls much more smoothly. Only fault I've had was an indicator switch replaced without question under warranty. New Skidmarx screen (£68) looks the part (fits over the stock screen) & makes m-ways a doddle. Taken it 2-up across Europe & got better economy (60mpg) than my normal 40mile commute. Luggage/pillion no problem. Even the chain is no hassle lasting longer & without adjustment than any other I've had (no Scottoiler). Finish is good enough to withstand UK winter use. When this has done too many miles I'll have another.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Touring Tool too!
20 July 2010 by GarethOlley
I thought I would just add a further update on my F800R following a weeks touring trip around the Scottish Highlands. I've got the BMW panniers with my bike and, coupled with a Kriega tail pack and Baglux system, the bike easily carried all the kit I needed for a week away. Prior to heading up North, I had a pair of the new Bridgestone BT023 tyres fitted - they're awesome in both wet and dry conditions! The bike hasn't missed a beat in over 1300 miles of day after day riding - it's economy is awesome, handling tremendous and performance more than enough to leave every other bike behind on the twisties. (I went with lads on VFR's, GSX-R 1000's and a mixture of big tourers! If you're considering a naked street bike you must try this one before discounting it - BMW have created a revelation! ;-)
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Warning
08 April 2010 by Hedgehog5
Headlamp replacement £240!!!... it's very vulnerable on today's post-winter, gravel strewn roads... get a protector or petition BMW to sell the lens separately.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Covers every angle
09 March 2010 by TopScot
I have owned my F800R for one month and I am loving it. I have added quite a lot accessories to it- ABS, heated grips, Akrapovic end can, fairing, R & G protection, BMC air filter, Ilmberger carbon hugger, luggage..... This means it covers every angle. The strong points are the brakes, low weight, nice exhaust growl, comfortable seat and funky looks. There are no down sides. I did consider a Ducati 696 and Triumph Street Triple R but the Ducati is awkward in slow moving traffic and the Triumph makes a horrible supercharger like squealing noise. Also, the Triumph Street Triple R has the worst looking headlights of any bike I have seen in the metal.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 Great for what I want...
07 March 2010 by Hedgehog5
Done 6000 winter miles on mine now & I can't fault it... rock solid engine, good handling, great OEM kit. I'm surprised BMW don't do a higher screen for it & the aftermarket suppliers haven't quite cottoned on yet tho there are some. Engine hasn't quite got the low rev punch of the singles or boxers but once you get it spinning it's fine... roll on the summer!
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Most practical in class!
23 February 2010 by GarethOlley
I have had numerous bikes from Supermoto's to a Honda SP-1. Prior to my new F800r I was running a Triumph Sprint ST (1050) as my main bike. Although very good it just didn't really stir my soul enough so I was planning on getting a Speed Triple. However, following an impromptu visit to Southport Superbikes I saw my F800r sitting there with panniers, ABS, heated grips, Acropovic can, BMW rear raxck etc, etc..... I took it for a test ride and what a surprise! O.K. so it's never going to be 'set your pants on fire' fast, but how fast do you want to go on a naked bike - believe me, 133mph is quick enough when your head is bouncing around in the wind!! All I will say is if you're thinking about it, give it a go - you might like it!! ;-)
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Great all-rounder
04 January 2010 by Fenderdog
@owensj Your review is so over the top and such a fabrication that I really have my doubts about your intentions. Let me tell you that I did make several test rides and have a completely different experience. The bike is very smooth, comfortable and easy to ride. Great fuel economy. At the end I did not yet go for it ($$), but its absolutely #1 at my shortlist.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
3 out of 5 Test ride
05 September 2009 by owensj
This bike ticks all my boxes. Looks great, ABS, big tank range, BMW badge, quality, light and agile. But, and it's a huge but... I went on a 2 hour test ride but gave in after half an hour. The bike is snatchy and lurchy in first gear when doing under 5mph. It sounds like a tractor and vibrates a lot. When moving swiftly up the gears (3rd to 4th) I suddenly ended up in 1st. What's that all about? MCN say fueling is perfect round town? I was scared to go back into first gear. Had to pull in the clutch to stop the jerking. This test ride was a massive disappointment. I was glad to get back on my Z750 which is as smooth as you can get. ;-(
Ride quality & brakes 2 out of 5
Engine 2 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 Superb
25 June 2009 by djtheot
Well I have been riding my new F800R for a week now, both commuting through London and a weekend ride. All I can say is I love this bike. Being new it is turning head as obviously not many about. The bike is shaping up as a great all rounder, brilliant at commuting and well up for a longer ride. This is a very easy bike to get on with, I am a relative new rider and as a 1st big bike this is possibly as good a bike you could have. I test rode most of the nakeds out there, in my opinion the nearest to this is the Street Triple (which I really liked), I went for the beemer as it was the one I was most comfortable on. So far I have not for a second regretted my choice, it is a bike you can grow with.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5