BMW F 900R

With the new BMW F 900 R dynamic roadster and the new F 900 XR crossover bike, BMW Motorrad takes its popular mid-range product range to a new level. Both F-models are designed for sportiness and fun with even more agile handling and are suitable for experienced riders as well as newcomers and those returning to motorcycling. While the new F 900 R focuses on sporty riding, the F 900 XR has everything it takes to be a confident partner on both windy roads and on longer tours with luggage.
“With a significantly extended range of standard equipment, fully adjustable upside-down forks, lighter wheels and a weight saving of 6.6 lbs., we have been able to make the BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR even more attractive. The new F 900 R also benefits from a sportier riding position and the F 900 XR from optimized aerodynamics.” Anton Huber, Project Manager.

Engine and Drivetrain
The new F 900 R and F 900 XR are even more dynamic and safer thanks to the new “Dynamic” riding mode and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), now standard.

In the new BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR, the tried-and-tested 895 cc two-cylinder in-line engine produces 105 hp and 68.6 lb-ft over a wide torque curve, while meeting current Euro 5+ homologation standards. With a 270/450 degree firing interval, the engine generates a very emotional exhaust note. The new sports silencer, available as a genuine BMW Motorrad Accessory in collaboration with Akrapovič, provides an even more expressive exhaust sound.

The F 900 R and F 900 XR are offered with two standard riding modes, Rain and Road. The optional Dynamic riding mode has received new settings. It has a throttle response curve that is more direct, making it ideal for sporty riding. Dynamic Traction Control DTC, which ensures a high level of riding safety, is also a new standard feature on both models. It contributes significantly to the high riding dynamics and exemplary riding safety. DTC provides valuable support and a significant safety advantage, especially in changing riding conditions, on surfaces with less grip and surfaces with changing friction.

The engine control unit detects a spinning rear wheel by comparing the speeds of the front and rear wheels via the ABS sensors with data from the lean angle sensor box. In this case, it reduces drive torque within milliseconds by reducing the ignition timing, intervening in the fuel injection system, and influencing the throttle position.

DTC also uses a sensor cluster to measure the lean angle and takes this into account in its control behavior. DTC works with the different riding modes to ensure maximum riding safety.

DTC provides valuable assistance and an enormous safety advantage when accelerating. However, it cannot redefine the physical limits of riding. It is still possible to exceed these limits through misjudgment or riding errors. However, DTC helps to make the most of the bike’s dynamic capabilities in a much safer manner. The DTC can be switched off separately for special requirements, such as riding on the track.

In addition to the anti-hopping clutch, the new BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR now feature standard MSR Engine Drag Torque Control. This system prevents rear wheel spin or skidding caused by abrupt throttle release or downshifting, for an even higher level of safety.

Chassis and Suspension
On both the new BMW F 900 R and the new BMW F 900 XR, the front wheel is guided by new, torsionally rigid, upside-down 43 mm telescopic forks. In contrast to the previous models, the rebound, compression and spring preload are all adjustable. This makes it possible to tailor the forks to suit individual requirements, operating conditions, and load conditions. Suspension travel is 5.3 inches (F 900 R) and 6.7 inches (F 900 XR).

The new F 900 R and F 900 XR also feature new 17-inch cast aluminum wheels from the S 1000 R model, which weigh around 3.9 lbs. less. The reduced rotational mass is reflected in improved acceleration, braking and handling. The wheel dimensions are 3.5 x 17″ front and 5.5 x 17″ rear with 120/70 ZR 17 and 180/55 ZR 17 tires.

Another new standard feature on the F 900 R and F 900 XR is BMW Motorrad ABS Pro. In contrast to BMW Motorrad ABS, ABS Pro goes one step further and offers more safety when braking in corners by enabling ABS-assisted braking at lean angles. ABS Pro prevents the wheels from locking even when the brakes are applied quickly and reduces abrupt changes in steering force and thus the bike from returning to the upright position, even during sudden braking. The benefits are increased braking and riding stability combined with the best possible deceleration even when cornering.

ABS Pro is designed for road use, with medium to low friction values and optimum braking stability in the Rain and Road riding modes. Regulation takes place at an early stage. In Dynamic mode, ABS Pro assumes that the road surface has very high grip and has a high coefficient of friction. Accordingly, ABS Pro is designed for optimum deceleration, control is late and rear wheel lift detection is reduced.

Another new standard safety feature is Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), which provides greater safety when braking in difficult situations by preventing unintentional acceleration. As soon as the sensor cluster supplies a certain deceleration value during braking, any simultaneous desire to accelerate on the part of the rider is detected as implausible and throttle valve opening is suppressed. This keeps the motorcycle stable and shortens the braking distance.

Electronics
The two new F Series models are equipped with a new battery that is 1.7 lbs. lighter. The new F 900 R and F 900 XR also have a new rear end with function-integrated turn indicator lights. In keeping with the “all in one” concept, the short, lightweight number plate holder and the rear turn indicator and number plate lights form a single unit, while the brake and taillight functions are integrated into the turn indicator lights.

The new F 900 XR features Headlight Pro with adaptive headlight as standard. Other new standard features include the USB-C charging port on the right-hand side of the cockpit with a maximum charging current of 2.4 A and heated grips.

The adaptive headlight, part of Headlight Pro, offers more safety when riding at night. This adds additional LED modules which allow for better illumination of the road in bends, ensuring a safer night-time ride. The adaptive headlight, which is unique in these two motorcycle classes, works by activating these additional LED elements in the main headlights, which are equipped with their own reflectors, depending on the lean angle. The adaptive headlight turns on when the motorcycle leans by more than 10 degrees and is travelling at a speed of more than 6 mph. The additional lighting effect functions optimally up to a lean angle of approx. 25°.

The F 900 XR has distinctive LED light guides to the left and right of the lower headlamp edge, indicating that it is part of the BMW Motorrad XR family.

Ergonomics and Design.
“We have made the riding position on the new F 900 R even more sporty and dynamic with an optimized ergonomic triangle. The new F 900 XR benefits from optimized front fairing aerodynamics, which is reflected in a significant reduction in helmet shake.” Dominik Menzel, Product Manager
The handlebars, footrests and foot levers of the ergonomic triangle of the new BMW F 900 R have been redesigned. The handlebars are positioned further forwards than on the previous model. A sportier, front-leaning riding position has been achieved by moving the footrests further back and optimizing the foot control positions.

The new F 900 XR offers more touring capability and long-distance comfort thanks to optimized aerodynamics in the front fairing. The redesigned wind deflector reduces wind pressure on the rider, resulting in significantly less helmet buffeting and even greater riding comfort.
The hand protectors, which are standard for all equipment variants, also provides improved protection from the wind and weather. The new F 900 XR can also be fitted with a new, optional 1.18-inch higher windscreen.