2020 BMW F 900 XR Review MC Commute

BMW’s liter-class-sized S 1000 XR was a home run hit when it debuted five years ago. The German bike brand wants to capitalize on the success by introducing a smaller and more manageable version in the 2020 BMW F 900 XR (starting at $11,695). Positioned alongside the F 900 R naked bike, which we recently test rode during the 2020 BMW F 900 R Review First Ride, the Bavarian brand is keen on giving middleweight adventure-sport riders something to lean on.

The XR shares the basic underpinnings of the R model, including its punched-out 895cc parallel twin (based off the powerplant inside the F 850 GS) and shell-type alloy frame and swingarm. However the XR benefits from longer-travel suspension, more upright and relaxed riding ergonomics, and a touring-friendly front fairing with manual two-way-adjustable windscreen.

Related: 2019 BMW R1250 GS Adventure Second Ride Review

These differences increase the roadworthiness of the XR, making it a highly suitable mount for riders looking to cover ground. The engine drinks from a larger-capacity 4.1-gallon fuel tank, now positioned above the engine (as opposed to the outgoing F 800’s beneath the tailsection setup). During fast-paced riding we recorded fuel mileage of 32 mpg. However, riding at a more sane pace delivers around 38 mpg. While we appreciate the XR’s added capacity, we still wish it carried more fuel.

Twist the throttle and this compact twin impresses with its punchy power delivery and refined character. Like other modern parallel twins (aka the Austrian brand’s LC8c mill) the Motorrad engine employs an uneven firing order designed to emulate the shake, rattle, and roll of a V-twin. In fact, engineers did such a marvelous job—you’d be hard-pressed to tell that the engine isn’t a V-twin from behind the handlebar. The XR grunts off the line and delivers a playful note that begs for hard riding antics. The gearbox meshes between each of its six cogs with absolute precision and we adore the feel and properly weighted cable pull of the clutch. For riders seeking an even slicker shifting setup, BMW offers its Gear Shift Pro (electronic quickshifter) as an option.

Related: 2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure First Ride Review

Ripe with adjustment, every control surface of the BMW can be tweaked based on rider preference. Motorrad also offers a variety of seat height and density options for a custom fit. Height-challenged riders can also purchase a suspension lowering kit straight from the factory. Speaking of suspension, the Showa-sourced fork is one of the better nonadjustable front suspension components we’ve ridden on lately and the linkage-less rear shock offers a handy remote-preload adjustment knob which makes for easy ride height tweaks.

Despite its hefty claimed 483-pound curb weight, the XR impresses with its above-average agility and comfort over bumpy surfaces. The OE-fitted Michelin Road 5 GT tires are a tad more squishy feeling as compared to the F 900 R’s awesome Bridgestone Battlax S21 shoes, but it’s a small gripe.

Electronics-wise the XR employs a huge 6.5-inch color TFT dash display. Loaded with features, this screen offers crisp and BMW-standardized fonts that can easily be read day or night. Instead of touchscreen functionality, the rider uses BMW’s proprietary handlebar-mounted multi-wheel control to manipulate settings. Additionally the rider can pair the motorcycle to their smartphone using BMW’s free BMW Motorrad Connected app. The easy-to-use app allows for turn-by-turn navigation and other handy settings like remaining fuel range.

Related: 2020 BMW F 900 R First Look Preview

Our 2020 XR was outfitted with BMW’s optional Ride Modes Pro option ($350) which unlocks Dynamic and Dynamic Pro riding modes. These settings complement the standard Rain and Road global settings that control engine response, ABS, and ASC, facilitating more intimate engine response, and IMU-powered ASC (automatic stability control) and ABS. We were hard-pressed to feel a difference between either dynamic setting, but we were pleased with the intuitive calibration of both settings that reward hard-charging riding. Riders can also manually disable ASC, however contrary to BMW’s other motorcycles ABS is fixed.

If you’re seeking a versatile do-it-all-style streetbike, BMW makes a hard case for its 2020 F 900 XR. Equal parts fun, comfort, and functionality, this Beemer is the type of streetbike that can fulfill multiple roles. However, for a $2,700 premium is it that much better than its awesome F 900 R sibling? If a full front fairing and a more upright riding position are your cup of tea, you’ll be happy with this Berlin-built middleweight.

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Suit: Aerostich R-3

Gloves: Alpinestars T-SP W Drystar

Boots: TCX Vibe WP Boots