When the previous BMW F800R was released, expectations were high – expectations that, ultimately, were not met. Because of this, motorcycle enthusiasts were less than hopeful that the 2015 version would be anymore impressive. They were pleasantly surprised. For the 2015 model year, the F800R has given a host of updates that makes it a more lively and practical middleweight naked with a relatively affordable price.
2015 BMW F800R
First, let’s discuss some of the most common complaints about the previous model. Riders complained that the position of the seat was awkward and uncomfortable at best, and impossible to deal with at worst. The forks were noted for feeling weak or “erring on the soft side,” which was fine for everyday commuting but made taking the bike out for a real ride more challenging. The brakes also felt on the weaker side. The handlebars were uncomfortable, and one customer commented that they made his hands go numb after too long riding. Plus, with the only color option being black and yellow, the only customers guaranteed to be impressed with the bike’s aesthetic were hardcore Steelers fans. Overall, the bike was rated with only 1 out of 5 stars.
2015 BMW F800R
BMW Genuine F800R Motorcycle Luggage Grid
Now, with the 2015 model, it seems as if BMW has come out of the gate with something to prove. The body of the bike has been given a face lift, including installing a new seat height and position, making for a much more comfortable ride. Upside down forks have been added to the bike’s design, supporting better suspension and steering power. The front brake has been updated with four-piston radial calipers. The old handlebars have been swapped for new tapered, aluminum ones that make for a more controlled grip. And – thankfully – more color options were added, including a very popular blue and white.
2015 BMW F800R
Fixing the more obvious problems of the 2014 version isn’t all that BMW has done, however. The 2015 BMW F800R will come with an even higher output than its predecessor, with an increase to 66kW/90hp at 8,000 RPM. (Previously, the bike sported an output of 64kW/87hp at 8,000 RPM.) This model comes with a long list of available options and accessories that are normally reserved for higher end (more expensive) motorcycles, including automatic stability control and electronic suspension adjustment.
2015 BMW F800R
BMW Genuine F800ST F800R Motorcycle SPORT CASES Left
While the comfort could still be improved upon, and it lacks a certain something to really push it over the top, riders are generally pleased. Overall, the rating of the new and improved model is a 4 out of 5 stars, a huge leap from where the bike was last year. The 2015 BMW F800R can be purchased in America for around $9,950 MSRP, or in Europe for around €8,900 MSRP.
The new features of the BMW F 800 R:
• Higher output than its predecessor – 66 kW (90 hp) at 8,000 rpm (previously: 64 kW (87 hp) at 8,000 rpm).
• Modified ratios for first and second gear.
• New body features with an even more dynamic design.
• New colours.
• Symmetrical main headlight arrangement.
• Upside-down fork.
• Radial front brake callipers.
• Lighter wheels with dynamic design.
• Rider foot pegs.
• Seat height reduced to 790 mm (previously 800 mm).
• New tapered aluminium handlebars.
• ASC (Automatic Stability Control) – optional / special accessory.
• ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) – optional.
• Output reduced to 35 kW (48 hp) – special accessory / optional.
2015 BMW F800R
