BMW presented the new F 800 GT as the successor to the F 800 ST. The most striking change as compared to the predecessor model F 800 ST is the bike’s full fairing. Not only does it give the new BMW F 800 GT a more dynamic, adult look, it makes it more of a fully fledged touring bike. A key factor here is the new windshield with optimised aerodynamics and significantly increased wind and weather protection. There are also new, longer mirror stems for a better view of traffic to the rear.
The high-torque, water-cooled 2-cylinder in-line engine with a capacity of 798cc features electronic fuel injection, a closed-loop catalytic converter and a 6-speed gearbox for an excitingly spontaneous response, impressive pulling power and a low level of fuel consumption. Another unique feature in serial production motorcycle manufacture is the mass balance based on an additional connecting rod. In the new F 800 GT an increase in power has been achieved by means of revised set-up. It now has an output of 66 kW / 90 bhp at 8,000 rpm. Other new features of the F 800 GT include the exhaust manifold and rear silencer. As part of the BMW Motorrad program of special accessories, the new F 800 GT can also be fitted with an Akrapovič sports silencer. This slip-on silencer provides a particularly earthy 2-cylinder sound. Made of titanium and stainless steel it enables a weight reduction of approx. 1,7 kg as compared to the standard rear silencer.
In terms of its suspension, the new F 800 GT offers a number of features specifically geared towards increased comfort and touring suitability. The rear swingarm is extended by 50 millimetres for enhanced ride stability. A slight reduction of spring travel by 15 mm to 125 mm reduces squat while also increasing ride stability and providing a more precise ride feel, as well as allowing a reduction in seat height from 840 mm to 800 mm. The active riding qualities of the F 800 GT also benefit from new, lighter wheels in a highly dynamic design with tangible benefits in terms of handling. For the first time in a mid-range touring bike, BMW Motorrad offers Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA as an ex works option in the new F 800 GT. This allows the rider to electrically adjust the damping rebound stage of the rear spring strut at the press of a button on the handlebar panel even while travelling. There is a choice of three levels, ranging from comfortable to normal and sporty, depending on the road surface and individual needs.
The new 20 mm higher handlebars made of double-butted aluminium tubing are designed for enhanced touring comfort with additional decoupling to reduce vibration. The positions of the rider footrests have also been reconfigured so as to achieve particularly comfortable ergonomics suitable for touring. They are now placed 10 mm further forward and 10 mm lower, creating a tangibly relaxed knee angle and therefore greater seating comfort. The touring comfort is also increased by a new standard seat with wider seating surface. The instrument cluster has been given a new dial face design as well as indicator lights for the newly added ESA and ASC systems. Another feature is the display of the on-board computer, previously available as an ex works option, and bar displays for fuel level and engine temperature are now also included as standard. Gear display, stopwatch, exterior temperature display and several other display functions still form part of the optionally available on-board computer.
