As AMCN predicted in February, BMW’s new F-series range will gain an F850GS Adventure model in 2019. The new model will sit at the top of the line-up, offering a stepping stone between the parallel-twin GS and the more expensive R1200 GS boxer.
We already knew BMW was developing just such a bike, having seen it on test in February (AMCN Vol 67 No16), but this is the first confirmation that the Adventure model will definitely be offered as part of the 2019 model range.
The news comes via the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which certifies the emissions of all bikes before they can be sold in the States. Its latest bulletin includes several 2019 models, including the new BMW F850GS Adventure.
It’s listed as using exactly the same 853cc parallel-twin engine as the regular F850GS, which is not an unexpected move – there’s no engine difference between the normal GS and the high-spec GS Adventure model in the R1200 boxer range either.
Interestingly, while BMW rates the engine at 70kW at 8250rpm, the EPA documents put it at 66kW at 8000rpm, suggesting the US version could have a slightly different state of tune to other markets.
Price-wise, the F850GS Adventure will sit at the top of the F850 range, but is sure to undercut the base R1200GS model, which has an Aussie RRP of $22,190.
WHAT ELSE?
BMW will have a bumper crop of new bikes for 2019. In addition to the F850GS Adventure will be a completely new S1000RR superbike and, at the other end of the scale, a C400 Sport scooter. BMW is also expected to rework the rest of its F-series parallel-twin range. At the moment, only the F850GS and F750GS models have the new 853cc engine, while the F800R and F800GT still have the previous-gen engine.
The R-series range of boxer bikes is also being revamped for 2019. A reworked engine – believed to include variable valve timing and an increased 1250cc capacity – has been spotted in an updated R1200RT tourer, and the big-selling GS models are also sure to get this motor.
By Ben Purvis
