BMW Motorrad has held a prestigious position in theAdventure Motorcycle market, and with the introduction of the BMW F 900 GS, the brand takes a bold step forward. Sitting comfortably between the entry-level GS models and the flagship R 1250 GS, the F 900 GS is purpose-built for riders who crave versatility, agility, and true off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort.
A Clear Evolution from the F 850 GS
The F 900 GS is more than just a facelift or engine bump over its predecessor, the F 850 GS. It’s a reimagining of the middleweight adventure bike, shedding unnecessary weight and optimizing performance for both experienced adventurers and ambitious newcomers.
BMW has always been known for their meticulous engineering, and with the F 900 GS, they’ve trimmed the fat—literally. The bike is over 14 kg (about 31 lbs) lighter than the F 850 GS, thanks to a new plastic fuel tank, redesigned rear frame, and a lighter swingarm. This change is immediately noticeable when maneuvering the bike off-road or even when navigating tight city traffic.
Engine and Performance
Powering the F 900 GS is the proven 895cc parallel-twin engine, now tuned to deliver 105 hp at 8,500 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. The engine is lively, responsive, and smooth, with a broad torque curve that delivers confident pulling power in every gear. BMW retained their signature 270/450-degree firing order, giving the engine a distinctive bark and a feeling reminiscent of a V-twin, adding to the bike’s character.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick and pairs beautifully with BMW’s optional quickshifter, allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts. For anyone planning long journeys or tight trail work, this is a feature worth investing in.
True Adventure Credentials
While the F 850 GS was competent off-road, the F 900 GS doubles down on capability. The bike now comes equipped with longer-travel suspension, a 21-inch front wheel, and fully adjustable USD forks, greatly enhancing its off-road prowess. For more serious riders, BMW offers the Enduro Pro package, which includes upgraded suspension by Showa and specialized riding modes.
The bike’s ground clearance, combined with its slimmer profile and revised ergonomics, makes it easier to control during technical terrain. Standing on the pegs feels natural, and the handlebars are ideally positioned for aggressive riding.
The dual-sport Metzeler Karoo 4 tires (on higher-spec variants) provide solid grip on a variety of surfaces. Whether you’re carving mountain passes or picking your way through rocky trails, the F 900 GS remains composed and confidence-inspiring.
Technology and Rider Aids
BMW packs the F 900 GS with a suite of electronic aids designed to make adventure riding safer and more fun. Standard features include:
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
- ABS Pro (cornering ABS)
- Multiple riding modes (Rain, Road, Enduro, and more with optional packages)
- TFT display with smartphone connectivity
- LED lighting all around
The 6.5-inch TFT screen is one of the best in the business—clear, easy to navigate, and highly customizable. Navigation, music, calls, and bike data are all accessible via BMW’s intuitive multi-controller on the left switchgear.
Riders can also opt for adaptive features like dynamic engine brake control, hill start control, and the Keyless Ride system. These are more than just bells and whistles—they genuinely enhance the riding experience, especially on long or technical rides.
Comfort for Long Days
Adventure bikes aren’t just built for dirt—they’re built for distance. The F 900 GS scores high here as well. The redesigned seat, updated fairing, and repositioned footpegs contribute to a more ergonomic ride, especially over long stretches. While the stock windshield could be taller for some riders, there are plenty of aftermarket solutions or BMW accessories to address wind buffeting.
At 20 liters, the fuel tank offers excellent range—over 300 km (186+ miles) on a single fill, depending on how heavy your wrist is.
Is It Worth It?
In a competitive middleweight ADV market that includes the Yamaha Ténéré 700, KTM 890 Adventure, and Triumph Tiger 900, the BMW F 900 GS holds its own. It might not be the most extreme off-roader of the bunch, but it nails the balance that most real-world riders are looking for: solid off-road chops, on-road comfort, and premium technology.
Final Thoughts
The BMW F 900 GS isn’t just a step up from the F 850 GS—it’s a leap forward. It brings the legendary GS versatility into a more manageable and agile package, making it perfect for solo explorers, weekend warriors, and even daily commuters.
For riders who want one bike to do it all—commute during the week, head for the trails on the weekend, and take off on long-distance journeys when the urge strikes—the F 900 GS stands tall as one of the best middleweight adventure bikes available today.