Test: BMW F 850 ​​GS (2020) // a mid-sized GS that knows and can do everything

In the shadow of its big brother, who is also the culprit, the R 1250 GS, there was a smaller GS on the market from the beginning. in the latest generation, the engine with a volume of 853 cubic centimeters... Instead of a boxer, the engineers opted for an in-line two-cylinder engine, which was first introduced in this model back in 2008 and still has proven itself in both power and torque and endurance. In addition, due to the ignition delay, it also sounds deep bass, slightly reminiscent of the sound of a boxer.

Despite good test results, many drivers still find it difficult to choose between the larger and smaller GS.m. But I can't even blame them, because it would be difficult for me to decide. For two-person trips, I would prefer the R 1250 GS, since the comfort for two is simply at a higher level, and therefore it is worth investing a good four thousand more. If I had to ride the bike mostly alone, I'd rather spend that price difference on a really good trip to faraway lands, as well as go on a more carefree adventure with more gravel and cart trails.

The BMW F 850 ​​GS is really good, even when the asphalt ends up under the wheels. Off-road suspension ensures reliable wheel-to-ground contact. I attribute the ease of cornering and flotation a lot to the wheel sizes, as the F 850 ​​GS is fitted with off-road tires in classic off-road dimensions., 90/90 R21 at the front and 150/70 R17 at the rear. It also gives you a rich selection of good off-road shoes for enduro adventures off the beaten track.

The classic triangle between pedals, seat and handlebars, which is typical of enduro bikes, gave me excellent handling thanks to the seated position. I easily overcame obstacles while standing, and this way I was able to drive a significant part of the way on the trolley track without stress and fear that the motorcycle will not cope with the task. Even when turning in place or maneuvering in heavy traffic, I find the relatively light weight in its favor.... With a full tank, that is, 15 liters of fuel and all fluids, it weighs 233 kilograms.

On a high, comfortable seat 860 mm high from the floor, I sat relaxed and comfortable. For many, the seat may be (too) high, but luckily you can buy a smaller version. While driving, the seemingly minimalist wind protection did its job well. I also drove 130 km / h in a relaxed upright position without any problem.... Even at top speed, the bike (just over 200 km / h) remains stable despite the tire size, bike height and driving position.

But miles on the highway is not what the Bavarians had in mind when designing the new generation of mid-range GS. Curves, back roads, funny twists and turns in heavy traffic, and the occasional trip down gravel trails are what count. With 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque, the engine has enough distortion that I can enjoy it very relaxed with minimal gear changes.... The feel of the clutch lever could have been more accurate, but it's true that I mostly only used it when starting.

The engine is flexible enough to do most of the work in sixth gear. For a slightly busier ride, however, it was necessary to downshift one or two gears before corners, where the speed drops to or below 60 km / h. If I compare it again with his big brother, this is where the difference in engine displacement is most noticeable. However, when traveling for two, this difference increases even more. Even though the drivetrain is brand new, the proportions have been changed and well calculated, there is a slight undernourishment in volume below 2.500 rpm. But these are really small things, and unfortunately I can't help but compare it all the time to the “big” GS.

I also gained a lot of confidence in the bike every time I had to brake a little harder or when the asphalt under the wheels was smooth. The test model was equipped with a dynamic package with very good rear wheel slip control. This works well for both fast driving on asphalt and gravel. The brakes are also very good, providing a predictable feel when dosing the braking force.... For heavy braking, it is enough to grip the handle with one or two fingers, and the technician will reliably carry out his task.

Less impressed by the basic suspension setup, it is very soft or rather comfortable, especially at the rear. Fortunately, the bike was equipped with ESA Dynamic Damping and Suspension, which means that by pressing a button and selecting a run mode with the electric control valves, I set it to run for a sportier feel.

In the sports program, the feeling was already the way I wanted it. I also had a little bit of criticism about the Quickshifter or Shift Assistant.... This one only worked well starting at 6.000 rpm, which is rarely achievable on a bike like this, unless you opt for very dynamic acceleration.

Finally, I will touch on the financial part. Fortunately, BMW has very well organized funding for its motorcycles. Fortunately, I say because it is the bike is already mostly expensive and costs 12.750 euroswhile this test GS was still pretty well equipped and the price below the limit was already 15.267 XNUMX euros.

• Basic data

  Sales: BMW Motorrad Slovenia

  Base model price: 12.750 €

  Test model cost: 15.267 €

• Technical information

  engine: 859 cm³, in-line two-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled

  Power: 70 kW (95 hp) at 8.250 rpm

  Torque: 80 Nm at 8.250 rpm

  Energy transfer: 6-speed gearbox, chain, oil bath clutch, shift assistant

  Frame: tubular steel

  brakes: front 1 disc 305 mm, rear 1 disc 265 mm, foldable ABS, ABS enduro

  Suspension: front telescopic fork, rear single shock, ESA

  Tires: before 90/90 R21, rear 150/70 R17

  Growth: 860 mm

  Fuel tank: 17 liters, consumption on the test: 4,7 100 / km

  Weight: 233 kg (ready to ride)

We praise and reproach

appearance, LED lights

quality of equipment and workmanship

large and perfectly readable screen in any light

ergonomics

using switches and adjusting motorcycle operation

engine sound

operation of auxiliary systems

undo helper operation

soft suspension

price

final grade

It is a versatile enduro touring motorcycle that everyone knows. It offers driving comfort, excellent assistance systems, safety equipment, net power, handling and off-road performance, which puts it at the top of the list of the best in the mid-range class. I love the dynamic equipment package and the ESA, which automatically adjusts the damping characteristics.