The new BMW F800GT. Its
development came about as a result of ST riders who lit up discussion forums
and focus groups with demands of “more G, less S.” Simply put, the bike is
faithful to the spirit of the venerable F800ST – a lightweight sport-touring canyon-carver
with excellent handling – but offers a
more touring-friendly approach, as well as incorporating modern technology such
as anti-lock braking (ABS), automatic stability control (ASC) and optional
electronic suspension adjustment (ESA) found on other current BMWs.
The result is an
appropriately amenable Gran Turismo that provides comfort and confidence for
days in the saddle while keeping the adrenaline pumping. Most impressive? The
GT’s base MSRP of $11,890 is exactly the same as 2013’s ST. Sort of.
The reconfigured
liquid-cooled 798cc parallel-Twin increases power output by five ponies over
the old ST’s mill, which cranked out nearly 80 horses at the rear wheel when
tested in a shootout against Honda’s VFR800 a few years ago. To minimize
vibration, it utilizes an even firing sequence, i.e., both pistons move up and
down simultaneously. An unexpected, pleasant result is the sound and feel of
the Twin is rather akin to that of BMW’s iconic Boxer. Combine that power with
a 470-pound ready-to-ride wet weight, a dependable belt drive and a fluid
6-speed transmission, and you’ve got a ride that highlights the “sport” in
sport-tourer.
The rubber-mounted
handlebar reduces vibration and is set slightly closer to a rider and 0.8 inch
higher than before, while the footpegs are 0.4 inches farther forward and the
same distance lower. The standard 31.5-inch seat is 1.6 inches lower and
significantly wider than was the ST’s. The slightly lipped windshield also
terminates closer to the rider than did the ST’s. All this translates to a more
touring-friendly ride than the ST could provide.
Other new features of
the F800GT include the exhaust manifold and rear silencer, both drawn from the
F800R roadster we reviewed in 2011. As an option, the new GT can also be fitted
with a titanium and stainless steel slip-on Akrapovic silencer that reduces
weight 3.7 pounds over stock. In the passenger heel area, a new heat shield was
developed to meet the specific demands of two-up touring.
Dealerships in North
America will receive shipments of the GT outfitted with accessory packages in
line with what the majority of its customers desire, according to BMW. The
Standard Package ($12,395) features BMW’s “Comfort Package” – heated grips,
side bag mounts, centerstand, and onboard computer. The Premium Package
($13,190) features all those accoutrements plus BMW’s “Safety Package,” which
includes ESA, ASC, and digital tire pressure monitor.But there are perks to the
options. For example, riders of the outmoded ST who desired an optional Low seat
were required to also purchase the Low front suspension. Not so with the new
GT. Also, the GT’s Low seat comes at zero cost to the consumer; the optional
32.3-inch-high Comfort Seat, with its wider pan and extra padding, runs $145.
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