2020 BMW F 900 R First Look Preview

BMW introduced the replacement of its F 800 platform at the EICMA motorcycle show. The 2020 F 900 R is positioned as a midsize naked streetbike that’s “precise, intuitive, and dynamic, offering purist riding fun,” according to its Motorrad project leader, Michael Zweck.

Also introduced at the same time is a touring-oriented brother, the F 900 XR, which we'll cover in an ancillary report.

The F 900 R is propelled by a larger-displacement liquid-cooled 895cc parallel twin with an eight-valve DOHC cylinder head. It gains 42cc via 2mm-larger cylinder bore (86mm). Forged pistons replace the cast components squeezing fuel to a lofty 13.1:1 compression ratio. The crankshaft fires at a 90-degree offset giving this powerplant the sound and feel of a 90-degree V-twin. Spent fuel is purged via an underbelly stainless steel exhaust.

To quell unwanted vibration, it uses a pair of counterweight shafts ahead, and behind, the crankshaft. Dry-sump oil lubrication keeps these heavy parts from spinning in a thick pool of oil, which increases engine efficiency.

Power is transmitted to the tire through a manual cable-actuated clutch (with back-torque limit/anti-hop function), a six-speed transmission, and chain final drive. Shift Assist Pro (electronic quickshifter) can be fitted as an accessory allowing for clutchless gearshifts.

Horsepower is rated at 105 while torque is claimed 67.8 pound-feet (European spec). It’s also worth noting that the Motorrad crew will offer an electronically limited 48 hp version available for European’s A2 licence class.

The midsize Beemer sips fuel from an ultra-lightweight, plastic-weld fuel cell, that BMW says is a first for the motorcycle industry. Fuel capacity is rated at 3.4 gallons.

Like most new 2019-and-up BMWs, including the awesome R 1250 GS and S 1000 RR, a huge 6.5-inch color TFT screen serves as instrumentation with vivid fonts, colors, and graphics. This makes it easy to decipher while riding, day or night. Bluetooth functionality lets riders pair their smartphones with the BMW Motorrad Connected app.

Overtly safety-conscious riders can opt for the Intelligent Emergency Call service, which BMW claims has the ability to automatically contact emergency services in the event of an accident. The call can also be made manually, however it requires a mobile phone connection via the presumably integrated SIM card on the motorcycle.

Full LED lighting comes standard, and for an upcharge, adaptive cornering headlamps can be fitted to better illuminate pavement through turns. This will be a must-have add-on for those who routinely ride after dark.

Two riding modes are offered (Rain and Road) with ABS and Automatic Stability Control (traction control) standard. Each mode offers different calibration of engine, ABS, and ASC response. Riders can also manually disable ABS and ASC. Additionally, for those who pony up for the optional electronic damping adjustment (Dynamic ESA), suspension damping character is linked to the modes.

Yet another available option is Riding Modes Pro. This upgrades the electronics suite with Dynamic Brake Control and a new feature, engine torque control (MSR), which automatically feeds the engine fuel during deceleration (enabling less drag on the rear tire). This mitigates rear wheel instability over slippery surfaces. More advanced Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) replaces ASC, and the ABS programming adds cornering, lean-angle-based function.

The F 900 R rides on a more narrow twin-spar steel frame with an alloy swingarm. It’s a shorter setup, decreasing wheelbase by 0.31 inch, for added maneuverability. Sport riders will be happy to know that the chassis geometry numbers are sharper for increased handling response.

A thick 43mm inverted fork soaks up bumps at the front and a direct-mount shock (no linkage) handles rear suspension duties. While fork damping is fixed, the shock allows spring preload and rebound damping adjustment. Additionally, suspension travel has been increased 8 percent up front and 14 percent at the rear as compared to the F 800. Triple hydraulic disc brakes, with radial-mount front calipers keep speed in check.

Ergonomics-wise the F 900 R offers a more sporty forward-position riding stance than its predecessor. Specifically, the foot controls are 0.59 inch further to the rear and the aluminum handlebar is nearly an inch more forward. Three seat height options are available (standard, high, and extra high) giving riders a range between 30.3 inches and 34.06 inches. All told, the BMW weighs 465 pounds with fuel, which is a tad heavy for a midsize streetbike.

Pricing and US availability are still unknown but more details to come when available.