Tested F800 ... not too impressed

[afoessel]

Let me start by stating that this is subjective commentary about the F800S, and that I've owned Suzuki DR350S, Katana 600, VFR800 (VTEC). It has been a couple of years since I sold my VFR (regret it now). Also, when I bought the VFR, I said to myself that this was going to be the only bike before I bought a BMW. Well, it seems that the F800ST will not be it.

For whatever reason, I felt it was time to start riding again so in checking the BMW website I found the F800ST. Some of the reviews got me really excited. The folks of Ginna BMW Motorcycles (Iowa City, IA) were kind to let me ride their demo F800S. I was really interested in the F800ST, especially when it has been compared so much to VFR800, but they just had a demo for the S.

The lead rider was kind to choose a good combination of roads so I could test the bike in straights as well as in curves. We rode for about 10 minutes and I was already convinced I was not going to buy the F800ST (or the S, for that matter). The reason? Well, it just fell small and underpowered compared to my previous VFR. The engine was nice, but did not felt is had the kick I was expecting.

This will feel unfair, but the F800S reminded me more to my wife's Ninja 250 than to my VFR. At the middle of the planned route, I asked the lead rider to switch bikes (he was riding an R1100R or something like that). The power in this larger bike was refreshing and convinced me that the F800ST was not what I was looking for.

By the way, the bike (F800S) was confortable. I could see myself driving long distances on it. There was some vibration (more than what I remember on the VFR and perhaps less than the Ninja 250) but not too bad.

Later at the showroom I sat on the F800ST. I was turned off further by the handle bars and riding position. It felt more like my old Suzuki DR350S (street legal enduro bike) than to the sportier VFR. Then I spent sometime looking at the different details in the bike. For one thing, I'd liked it more with a hydraulic clutch. Coming from the good clutch on the VFR, it felt like going back in technology.

On the other hand, I really liked the transmission belt. I could see how not having to lube it would be a plus.

So, both F800S and ST seem nice bikes. I am sure that many folks will really like and enjoy many miles on them. I don't think it fits what I am looking for.

In short, yes, there will be a BMW sometime soon, but it will not be the F800ST. Not enough bike for the money. After discussing my impression with a salesman at Gina's, I was sent back with a K1200R Sport catalog. Well, that's more bike there, but more money too. In the meantime, I'll keep regretting having sold the VFR.

Cheers,

Alex

[Jetpilot5]

If you really liked your VFR and want a BMW, take a K1200S out for a test.  The riding position is very similar to the VFR and you won't be disappointed with the engine.  I owned a 99 VFR and a CBR1100XX before I bought my K1200S.

[DrMikey]

See my post at http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,12205.0.html

As a long time BMW rider who has had airheads, oilheads, and now a K bike, I share your opinion that the F800 is not a powerful as you would expect a modern 800 to be. Still, the powerband is wide and useful; in the twisties, speed is more a function of rider competency and a motorcycle's handling capabilities than outright power.

You might also consider a used R11xxS, RS, or even a Rockster. K1200RS's can be found for a reasonalble price, about equal to that of a new F800. I love mine and have no intention of changing bikes for quite some time. YMMV.

[hovmaven]

I wasn't too shot with the new "expandable" bag system.  Doesn't seem all that secure.  

[afoessel]

See my post at http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,12205.0.html

Thanks, DrMikey. I did read your posting before going to the demo ride. Now I understand why you thought it was a lighter bike.

You might also consider a used R11xxS, RS, or even a Rockster. K1200RS's can be found for a reasonalble price, about equal to that of a new F800. I love mine and have no intention of changing bikes for quite some time. YMMV.

Agree. As you and JetPilot5 suggest, I'll look at those models and test them out. I also came back convinced that I did not need to buy a new bike, but a used one would to. Already checking eBay out ..

[hass]

I know it's not really the same type of bike but try test-riding the R1200R. Or, if you want to save som $$$ try to find an old R1100S...

[DrMikey]

Agree. As you and JetPilot5 suggest, I'll look at those models and test them out. I also came back convinced that I did not need to buy a new bike, but a used one would to. Already checking eBay out ..

Don't forget about the marketplace at http://www.ibmwr.org

[jsanford]

I know it's not really the same type of bike but try test-riding the R1200R. Or, if you want to save som $$$ try to find an old R1100S...

DON'T--test riding the R1200R is daaaaangerous. It'll make you rationalize crazy things!