BMW updates and improves the standard equipment of the F 900 R and F 900 XR

BMW Motorrad continues with the range update of its motorcycles, and now it is the turn of two versatile models focused on the road: the F 900 R and the F 900 XR. Both motorcycles are siblings but with a design that depends on how they will be used. That is, if what you are looking for is a touring bike to enjoy mountain passes with a marked but manageable character, you should choose the F 900 R; but if you want to go further and have a travel companion, the F 900 XR will be the ideal choice.

BMW has focused on changing only what is strictly necessary on the F 900 R and F 900 XR to make the motorcycle even more attractive, including its standard equipment. Other features remain unchanged, such as its in-line twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of exactly 895 cc, from which it produces 105 CV. Despite meeting Euro 5+ regulations, it delivers an excellent sound thanks to its 270/450-degree firing interval. BMW will also allow it to sound even more powerful with the new optional silencer signed by Akrapovič, which also reduces the total weight by about 1.2 kg.

In addition, the torque curve delivered by this twin is powerful yet easy to manage for both inexperienced and expert riders. To help with this, it comes with standard Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which ensures maximum safety during acceleration, along with engine drag torque control, which prevents the rear wheel from slipping if the throttle is closed abruptly or when downshifting. Also added is the new Dynamic riding mode, which provides greater dynamism and riding pleasure. And we must not forget the new ABS Pro, which allows ABS-assisted braking with lean angle, and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), which provides extra safety when braking in critical moments.

As for the chassis, both the F 900 R and the F 900 XR are equipped with new inverted telescopic forks, torsionally rigid and with a 43 mm sliding tube, whose rebound and compression damping as well as spring preload are adjustable. Added to this are new 17-inch cast aluminium wheels. These new wheels are lighter, specifically 1.8 kg less than the previous ones, resulting in a reduction of the motorcycles’ weight by about 3 kilograms. Weight is also reduced with the new battery, which is more compact and 800 grams lighter.

Looking at each model more specifically, the new F 900 R receives a new handlebar, footpegs and foot levers, so that BMW has managed to give this model a riding position closer to the front wheel and therefore more sporty. It also features a sport-design seat that raises the rider’s seating height by 25 mm compared with the previous one. This sportier character is further accentuated on the F 900 R by the new headlight side trim painted in the same colour as the rest of the fairing.

Turning now to the BMW F 900 XR, the German brand has focused on making its capability as a sport-touring machine even greater, while also making it more comfortable on long journeys. To this end, the aerodynamics of the front fairing have been improved with a new windscreen deflector that reduces the wind pressure exerted on the rider, thereby causing fewer vibrations in the helmet and consequently greater comfort. In addition, the following are now also included as standard equipment: hand guards, heated grips, a USB-C charging port on the right-hand side with a maximum charging current of 2.4 A, and the Pro headlight, which includes daytime running light and adaptive headlight.