The F 850 GS debuted in 2017 and received an update in 2021. So you’d think it’s still fairly new with no need for an update. But the folks at BMW Motorrad think otherwise, which is why the German giant has debuted an overhauled F 900 GS for 2024. In addition, there’s also an updated F 900 GS Adventure and F 800 GS (replacement for the F 750 GS). All bikes have several noteworthy updates in almost all aspects, but the F 900 GS is simply the headline-maker. So here’s everything you need to know.
The 2024 BMW F 900 GS Produces 105 Horsepower
Diving right in, the US-spec F 850 GS employed an 853cc, twin-cylinder mill that produced 90 horsepower (at 8,000 RPM) and 63 pound-feet (at 6,250 RPM). That has now made way to welcome an 895cc, twin-cylinder mill on the F 900 GS. Though identical to the F 900 XR, it’s been tuned to churn 105 horsepower (at 8,500 RPM) and 68.6 pound-feet (at 6,750 RPM) for extra fun, all sent to the wheel via a six-speed transmission. With the added horsepower, the F 900 GS is now more powerful than its arch-rival, the 94-HP Triumph Tiger 900 Rally, and on par with the KTM 890 Adventure.
| Engine | 895cc, twin-cylinder |
| Power | 105 horsepower at 8,500 RPM |
| Torque | 68.6 pound-feet at 6,750 RPM |
| Transmission | Six-speed |
Like the engine, the underpinnings have gone under the knife too. The F 900 GS has an all-new tubular subframe, partnered by top-shelf Showa upside-down forks and monoshock. The suspension is now fully adjustable and has considerably more travel at each end. Wondering why there’s a new subframe? Well, weight reduction. The company claims the 900 GS is a whopping 30 pounds lighter than the 850. Not all of it is from the subframe, though. The new plastic fuel tank, battery, side stand, and an Akrapovic titanium slip-on (standard) play a key role too.
| Front suspension | Showa upside-down forks (9-inch travel) |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock (8.4-inch travel) |
| Wheels | 21/17-inch cross-spoke wheels |
| Curb weight | 482 pounds |
| Seat height | 34.2 inches |
The 2024 BMW F 900 GS Flaunts An All-New Design
Coming to design, the F 900 GS takes on a more minimalistic attire than the F 850 GS, courtesy of several new elements. There’s a new LED headlight up top, flanked by new side fairings. You no longer get the front beak, which creates a much more compact fascia. Compact is also how you can define the sharp tail end, complete with three-in-one LEDs. These function as the turn signals, brake light, and hazard lamps–the same as the S 1000 RR. The plastic tank is all-new as well, but holds 3.83 gallons, down from the F 850’s 3.96 gallons. You can get the GS in three finishes/variants - Blackstorm Metallic, São Paulo Yellow, and the top-shelf Lightwhite/Racing Blue Metallic.
All this while, the new GS is as loaded as ever. The feature list comprises -
- 6.5-inch TFT instrument cluster
- Adjustable gear and rear brake lever
- Two ride modes
- Dynamic traction control
- Cornering ABS
- Switchable ABS
- Heated grips
- 12V and USB socket
There’s Also An Updated 2024 F 900 GS Adventure And F 800 GS
The F 900 GS might be the headline-maker, but BMW has also updated the F 900 GS Adventure and F 800 GS. The 900 GSA flaunts the new 895cc mill with the same output as the non-adventure model. Likewise, the fully adjustable Showa suspension comes standard here too. Another noteworthy update has come to its styling. It features burlier side panels than before, which create a more muscular presence. Part of the credit also goes to the new aluminum bash plate down under.
Meanwhile, the least number of changes have come to the F 800 GS. It boasts the same 895cc mill, albeit detuned to gush out 87 horsepower and 67 pound-feet. Heated grips are now standard, and so are the Variocase carrier and handguards. All other elements, including the aesthetic, are identical to its predecessor, the F 750 GS.
BMW F 900 GS, F 900 GS Adventure, And F 800 GS - Rivals And Launch Timeline
BMW USA has shed little light on when these new adventure bikes will set foot in America. However, we do know these are all 2024 models, so the early months of next year seem like a good guess as of now. Once out, the trio will cost more than their predecessors. For reference, here’s the current price list -
| 2023 BMW F 850 GS | $12,595 |
| 2023 BMW F 850 GS Adventure | $13,595 |
| 2023 BMW F 750 GS | $9,995 |
As for rivals, the F 900 GS will lock horns with a variety of bikes. The list includes the KTM 890 Adventure, Aprilia Tuareg 660, and the Husqvarna Norden 901. Whereas, the F 800 GS will fall in the company of the Yamaha Tenere 700, Suzuki V-Strom 800DE, and the upcoming Honda Transalp.
What’s your take on the new Beemers? Like them, love them, or loathe them? Tell us in the comments!