Test drive the versatile adventure sports bike F 900 XR from BMW again.
The F 900 XR 2022 is BMW Motorrad’s midsize oversized adventure sports model. We attended the official press conference when BMW announced this model for model year 2020. Check out the 2020 BMW F 900 XR Review First Ride and the 2020 BMW F 900 XR Review MC Commute. Aside from pricing for the 2022 model year, the German brand hasn’t changed much when it comes to bikes, and that’s not a bad thing.
Despite the old architecture of this 895cc parallel twin (the engine is based on the original F 800 GS, which makes it look dated), it works just fine. Plenty of torque even at low revs. V-Twin-like characters are comfortable and fun to operate.
The six-speed gearbox has a bit too much drive ratio, so this twin doesn’t rev absurdly high when cruising on the highway at 80 mph. This guarantees both increased comfort and reduced fuel consumption. Average consumption was about 36.5mpg. Yet one of the real criticisms comes from here. The 4.1 gallon fuel tank is a bit on the small side for an adventure sport bike. The next version will require more fuel capacity.
What we really like about this bike is its nimble handling. Considering the vehicle weight of about 500 pounds, this is amazing. We love how easy this bike is to get around corners and around town. It’s a very comfortable bike.
This particular 2022 F900 XR is equipped with BMW’s premium package, which costs an additional $2,400. This package also includes select packages with all additional features. It has electronic semi-active suspension adjustment, heated grips, cruise control and keyless ignition. A hard luggage mount is also included, but accessory luggage was not available for our test drive.
What we appreciate about this bike is a high level of comfort and a great upright seating position. The seats are especially comfortable. This bike is really good for spending long hours in the saddle.
The elegant BMW 6.5-inch TFT color display is impressive. The company has been using this display since the debut of the R 1250 GS ’19 (see 2019 BMW R1250GS Adventure First Ride Review) and the panel is class leading. Currently, no motorcycle manufacturer is doing as well as BMW Motorrad. Also, the thumbwheel device introduced in the 2012 K 1600 GTL still works very well and facilitates navigation within well-designed menus. I also like the BMW Connected app. Available for iOS and Android smartphones, the app offers turn-by-turn directions directly on the display. You can also use the app to check service intervals, fuel levels and many other fun things.
The bright LED lighting is also a nice feature. Adaptive headlights are part of the premium package. These are all very nice features, as is the two-way adjustable windshield. However, it would be nice if the high position of the windshield was a little higher.
All in all, these 22 F900 XRs are fun to drive, especially at the $11,695 base price. However, if you book the $2,400 premium package and add another $250 for the bike’s custom black paint and plastic handguards, the bike costs nearly his $15,000. It’s expensive for a midsize adventure bike. It’s still worth considering if you’re looking for a road bike that’s super easy to ride, nimble, compact, and versatile enough to juggle errands around town. If that’s what you want in a light tourer that also enjoys sporty routes, the F 900 XR is for you.
Gear Box
Jacket: REV’IT! Blackwater
Gloves: REV’IT! Kinetic
Pant: REV’IT! Piston
Boots: TCX Dartwood Waterproof
2022 BMW F 900 XR Technical Specifications and Price
| PRICE | $14,990 (as tested) |
| ENGINE | 895cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 8-valve |
| BORE x STROKE | 86.0 x 77.0mm |
| COMPRESSION RATIO | 13.1:1 |
| FUEL DELIVERY | BMS-M electronic fuel injection |
| CLUTCH | Wet, multiplate slipper clutch; cable actuation |
| TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE | 6-speed/chain |
| FRAME | Steel bridge frame in monocoque design |
| FRONT SUSPENSION | Showa inverted 43mm fork; 6.7 in. travel |
| REAR SUSPENSION | Sachs shock, spring preload and rebound damping adjustable; 6.8 in. travel |
| FRONT BRAKES | Radial-mount 4-piston calipers, dual 320mm floating discs w/ ABS |
| REAR BRAKE | 1-piston floating caliper, 265mm disc w/ ABS |
| WHEELS, FRONT/REAR | Die-cast aluminum; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 5.5 in. |
| TIRES, FRONT/REAR | Michelin Road 5 GT; 120/70-17 / 180/55-17 |
| RAKE/TRAIL | 29.5°/4.1 in. |
| WHEELBASE | 60.0 in. |
| SEAT HEIGHT | 32.5 in. |
| FUEL CAPACITY | 4.1 gal. |
| CLAIMED CURB WEIGHT | 483 lb. |
| WARRANTY | 24 months, unlimited mileage |
| AVAILABLE | March 2022 |
| CONTACT | bmwmotorcycles.com |
The F 900 XR is powered by BMW’s tried-and-true 895cc parallel twin. We love its peppy sound, character, and around-town acceleration.
The F 900 XR is a blast to ride around town. It’s nimble and the engine has a pleasing torque curve that makes it easy to ride.
We’re big fans of the F 900 XR’s styling that appears rugged yet elegant.
The one-piece seat is not only short rider friendly but it is cozy for long days in the saddle.
Ergonomically, the F 900 XR is a tad small for taller riders, yet the ergonomic proportions are set well making it comfortable for a wide range of riders.
A bright and crisp 6.5-inch color display keeps tabs on vehicle vitals. BMW easily employs the slickest interface in the motorcycle segment today.
Brembo Monoblock calipers do a fine job of shedding speed on the 483-pound F 900 XR. Stainless steel brake lines are a nice touch.
Bright LED headlamps help the F 900 XR stand out. They also perform well during night rides.
We’re big fans of the F 900 XR’s smaller dimensions that make it easy to ride in urban environments.
Introduced on the 2012 K 1600 GTL touring bike, BMW’s tried-and-true multi-wheel makes it easy to manipulate vehicle and display settings while riding.
The F 900 XR’s cockpit is well suited for urban riding and light-duty touring escapades.
Source: motorcyclistonline.com
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