The electrical system of the new F 800 R works with the progressive CAN bus system familiar from the existing models of the F 800 series. The Single Wire System (SWS) offers numerous advantages: it reduces the amount of wiring, allows all control units to be networked with each other and thus simplifies the provision of extensive diagnoses. What is more, safety fuses are no longer required because the system automatically deactivates the affected component in case of malfunction.
Since the introduction of CAN bus technology, an electronic vehicle immobilization function has been a standard feature of most BMW motorcycles, and this also applies to the new F 800 R. The electrical plug connections are waterproof and thus insusceptible to faults. A powerful battery with a capacity of 14 Ah and a powerful alternator with an output of 400 watts provide the power supply.
The cockpit with its analogue instruments informs the rider at a glance. For the F 800 R the dials have been redrawn and adapted to the dynamic appearance of the F 800 R in terms of design. As a special equipment option, BMW offers an on-board computer which also provides a stopwatch function among other features.
The asymmetrical dual headlamps with the technology familiar from the F 800 GS give the new F 800 R a sporty, aggressive face and intentionally echo the design of the big roadster model K 1300 R. Two H7 headlamps ensure that the rider can see and be seen.
As in the new K 1300 models, the F 800 R features switches and controls of an entirely new generation. The new switch units use MID technology (Moulded Interconnect Devices; lasered conductors instead of individual wiring) and are thus much smaller and more compact while also offering a wider range of functions, clear design and optimum reachability.
The functions of the left and right direction indicators, previously separate, are now combined in a single function on the left-hand side of the handlebars. Activation of the hazard warning lights is now taken care of via a separate switch integrated at the top of the left-hand handlebar panel. The functions for low beam, high beam and headlamp flasher have been combined in a single switch which can be conveniently operated using the left index finger.
The activation switch for the optional grip heating has been moved upwards for easier operability and the selected heating level can be seen in the instrument panel display. The functions for starter and kill switch have been practically combined in a single rocker switch. This prevents the starter from being activated when the ignition is interrupted if the kill switch is activated by mistake, potentially resulting in battery discharge.
The new technical design allows twice as many functions to be provided with the same number of switches as before. This is an important factor in the incorporation of additional features in the future.
With the F 800 R, BMW Motorrad has realized a design concept which deliberately highlights the connection with the large sporty 4-cylinder roadster K 1300 R.
Due to the light effect of the rear section and the compact combination of headlamps and instruments, the F 800 R appears short and compact, further emphaising the sporty look of this dynamic naked bike.
BMW Motorrad has also paid special attention to quality details in the immediate field of vision of the rider. For example, not only have the faces of the instrument panel been redrawn but also the upper fork bridge with steering stem clamps, milled covering caps and butted handlebars are finished in especially high-quality style.
As compared to the F 800 S, the seat height has been slightly lowered: this will especially benefit re-starters, infrequent motorcyclists and beginners who will find the bike easier to handle as a result. An additional option for the reduction of seat height is a lower seat from the BMW Motorrad equipment program.
Additional design parts for further individualization of the F 800 R for example the Sport windshield, radiator trim panels, a pillion passenger cover and an engine spoiler are to be found in the extensive BMW Motorrad equipment program.
2009 BMW F 800 R
BMW Motorrad offers the F 800 R in three attractive paint finishes. The two-color finish Alpine White non-metallic with Black silk gloss reflects the spirit of the times. Fire Orange non-metallic has a provocative, sport effect while White Aluminium metallic matt comes over as technical and modern.
The frame, swing-arm and engine of the F 800 R are finished in black in all three color versions. Together with the light alloy wheels, also finished in black, this makes for a particularly dynamic look which reflects the sporty ambitions of the F 800 R. The orange-colored spring adds an interesting touch of color.
The interplay between the colored and black surfaces highlights the newly designed body features and the powerful character of the new F 800 R, especially the sections which are typical of a roadster such as the muscular front section and the slim, sporty rear.
The optional accessory parts such as the pillion passenger seat cover in body color and the Sport windshield harmonize perfectly with the relevant paint finish.
Conclusion
You don’t need to read tens of pages regarding technical features in order to notice that BMW is here to offer the best of innovation, but, more important, diversity. And this is what the 2009 F 800 R model stands for. The bike wasn’t a must for their lineup, but now that is officially launched, it will make the difference in relation to Italian and British alternatives. I just can’t wait to see that.
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