BMW unveil full Adventure-spec middleweight F800GS

BMW has given the middleweight F800GS the full Adventure-spec going over for the first time so the manufacturer for the first time has a bike to tackle the Triumph Tiger 800 XC.

The new F800GS Adventure marks the first time BMW has added a more extreme version to the smaller capacity range and follows the years of success with the bigger R1200GS Adventure models.

The GS range now comprises five models (six if you count the R1200GS Enduro version) which starts with the G650GS single-cylinder model. It’s capped by the R1200GS Adventure which is yet to be replaced by the new water-cooled version launched in the R1200GS standard model earlier this year but will almost certainly get the new engine in the next year or so.

The new F800GS Adventure’s key differences over the standard model are:
• 24-litre fuel tank up by eight litres with a rear mounted tank which extended range by a claimed 75 miles or so
• New design of bodywork
• ABS as standard, traction control available as an optional extra
• Enduro mode as a new optional extra, in combination with traction control.
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) as an optional extra
• Reinforced rear subframe to cope with the extra fuel and increased luggage carrying capacity
• More comfortable bench seat.
• Larger windscreen
• Wider enduro-style footrests
• Adjustable, reinforced foot brake lever
• Engine protection bar
• Pannier rack also serves as a tank protection bar