2020 BMW F 900 R Review First Ride

BMW overhauls its middleweight sport naked motorcycle by incorporating a larger-capacity parallel twin engine, higher-spec suspension, and electronic upgrades in its 2020 F 900 R ($10,090 as tested). The F 900 R replaces the 11-year-old F 800 platform—an expensive bike that underperformed compared to some of its competition.

Editor’s Note: We covered the technical improvements in the 2020 BMW F 900 R First Look Preview article, now it’s time to discuss what it’s like to ride this Berlin-built motorcycle.

Aesthetically, the F 900 R looks more pleasing than its goofy-looking predecessor. We appreciate the tall fuel tank line and short front and rear overhang. However, the stretched rear fender and license plate mount appear out of place. More angular body panels and fine contrast between paint, fork, chassis, and engine finishes are more nice touches and make this BMW appear more expensive than its base MSRP insinuates. Our testbike was also fitted with an accessory painted passenger pillion seat cover.

Related: 2019 BMW F850GS First Ride Review

Seated at the controls demonstrates a more compact cockpit than we recall with the outgoing model. Although more forward-biased and sporty-feeling, the ergonomics are proportioned well for this 6-foot-tall rider. It’s important to note that BMW offers a variety of OE seat options, as well as a suspension lowering kit to accommodate different sized riders.

Related: BMW F800 GS - The American GS Dream

Like all of BMW’s recently updated 2019 and newer models, the 900 is adorned with a gorgeous 6.5-inch color TFT instrument display. The video game-like panel affords a plethora of features accessed via its proprietary handlebar-mounted multi-wheel control. From here you can switch between gauge panel options as well as ascertain detailed trip information, including total trip and moving time. Cruise control and heated grips are offered as an option. Bluetooth connectivity is also standard with the proprietary BMW Motorrad Connected app. This allows turn-by-turn directions and other smartphone features displayed visually via the dash display.

Related: 2020 BMW F 900 XR First Look Preview

On the road the 465-pound F 900 R feels much lighter and more maneuverable than its curb weight implies. It wields easily around tight bends and offers the most well-calibrated suspension we’ve ridden on a production streetbike at this price point. The suspenders do a marvelous job of filtering effects of worn, bumpy pavement, yet remain composed when loaded around sweepers on the throttle or brakes. Even in standard configuration the bold LED headlight does a marvelous job of illuminating pavement during night rides. Riders can also add cornering headlamp function with the Headlight Pro option.

Although fork damping is fixed, we didn’t miss not having adjustment. The direct-mount shock however offers a handy knob for easy preload adjustment and rebound damping circuit too. The OE-fitted Bridgestone Battlax S21 further complement handling with copious levels of grip at lean. We also appreciate the handy angled valve stem fittings that make it easy to check and adjust tire pressure. Triple-disc brakes with radial-mount Brembo calipers and stainless steel brake lines do a fine job of shedding speed and we appreciate the ability to adjust both the clutch and brake levers based on hand size or rider preference.

Yank on the right twist grip and the oversquare 895cc parallel twin impresses with not only a broad spread of power, but its fun-loving character.

Editor’s note: The engine shares the same architecture as the F 850 GS, however with 2mm larger cylinder bores. The flow geometry of the cylinder head is different as is fuel mapping.

BMW claims the engine is good for 99 hp at 8,500 rpm. Like other modern-era parallel twins, the engine benefits from a 270/450-degree firing order designed to simulate the rumbling character of a V-twin. In fact, you’ll be hard pressed to tell that the engine isn’t a V-twin. It shakes, rattles, and rolls in a pleasing way, with just the right amount of engine vibration. The roar of the intake is equally pleasing making this BMW surprisingly fun to romp on. The six-speed transmission and cable-actuated clutch offer excellent action, further boosting its ease of use. As a side note, BMW offers its Gear Shift Assist Pro (electronic quickshifter) as another option for those who desire immediate clutchless up- and downshifts.

Our testbike was outfitted with BMW’s Ride Modes Pro option ($350), which unlocks Dynamic and Dynamic Pro engine power modes and IMU-powered ASC (automatic stability control). These settings offer more intimate throttle response with reduced ASC and ABS intervention. It also integrates engine-brake control. This reduces engine-brake effect and helps increase stability during rapid downshifts at high rpm. Even at a sporty pace, it proved difficult to ascertain the difference between either setting. Still, we appreciated the well-calibrated engine response and seamlessness of traction and ABS response. Well done, BMW. Riders also have the ability to disable ASC, however ABS is fixed.

Simply put, the 2020 F 900 R runs circles around its predecessor. Not only is it faster and better looking, it offers a well-rounded handling dynamic that skates the fine line between sport riding in the canyons and super slab comfort. Factor in its uber high-build quality and favorable $8,990 base MSRP and BMW riders finally have a motorcycle that can run with the best of the best in the middleweight segment.

Helmet: Arai Defiant-X Dragon

Jacket: Alpinestars Oscar Charlie

Gloves: Alpinestars T-SP W Drystar

Pant: Alpinestars Copper 2

Boots: TCX Vibe WP Boots