If you are an adventure enthusiast, then we can say without asking that you are a fan of BMW's adventure machines, particularly the GS category. The most popular is the top spec 1250 GS because of its incredible performance and quality, but it is one of the most expensive machines out there. But if you still want a BMW GS machine, we would suggest you look at the 850 GS. It is not only cheaper than the 1250 GS but also more affordable than any other 850-cc adventure machine. It also has the same adventure-ready DNA the GS family is known for and is without doubt more beginner-friendly. In this article, we list ten things that we like about the BMW F 850 GS.
Looking at the manufacturer's website, we have put together a list of the ten best things about the BMW F 850 GS
10 Adventure Ready Design
Inspires you to push ahead
The 850 GS carries the same adventure-ready DNA for which the GS family is respected among adventure bikers. With the same design cues, such as angular bodywork, a tall stance, LED lighting, long, sturdy travel suspension, a beak under the headlamp, and signature spoked wheels, this motorcycle is designed to perform seamlessly on and off-road. Because of its relatively low curb weight, it is more nimble than the bigger GS models, and for the 2023 model year, BMW has something more to offer. The F 850 GS is now available in two more skins along with the iconic GS Trophy: Racing Red and Triple Black.
9 Unparalleled Rider Comfort
Legacy of BMW and GS
BMW is known for providing excellent comfort with their vehicles, whether it's a car or a bike. This is one of the reasons why GS machines have been much loved by riders for a long time. Following this legacy, the 850 GS is also designed to provide maximum rider comfort regardless of the riding conditions. Featuring a long suspension travel of 8.0 inches at the front and 8.6 inches at the rear, this bike feels smooth even on bumps and gravel. The rear suspension can be adjusted hydraulically for spring preload and rebound damping, which offers further convenience to riders in different riding conditions. The broad front design, together with the tall windshield, protects the rider from wind blasts at high speeds. The next best part in terms of comfort is the saddle. The saddle has a narrow and slim profile resembling those on enduro-class bikes but is incredibly soft and comfy, allowing the rider to clock a few extra miles without experiencing pain in the bottom and back.
8 Inclusive Seat Height Range
Size is not a problem anymore
An adventure-loving soul comes in every body size and stature. And we would love a bike that can accommodate riders of every dimension to achieve their adventure dreams. However, engineering-wise, it is not an easy problem to resolve. Even the suspension adjustability that most adventure bikes have is not a complete answer to the challenge. This is where the GS 850 stands out from its competitors. During the purchase of this bike, you can select a seat height that suits your stature and size. This not only makes this bike accessible to you but also increases your comfort level by changing the inner leg curve. BMW is offering four seat heights with a low suspension kit to customize the bike as per your preference.
Seat Height Range
| Seat Type | Seat Height | Inner Leg Curve |
| Rallye Seat | 35 inch | 78 inch |
| Comfort Seat | 34.4 inch | 76.8 inch |
| Standard Seat | 33.9 inch | 75.2 inch |
| Low Seat | 32.9 inch | 73.6 inch |
7 Dependable Parallel-Twin Engine
Seamless BMW performance
The 850 GS has the same engine that we have seen in the 750 GS. Both bikes have BMW's tried and tested 853 cc parallel twin engine, but for the 850 GS, the engine is tuned to produce greater horsepower and torque outputs. Equipped with two counter balancer shafts, this engine runs without vibration in any gear, and the ride-by-wire throttle ensures smooth acceleration. The maximum output of the engine is 90 horsepower and 63 lb-ft of torque, with a good grunt at lower revs. The engine is mated with a 6-speed gearbox working in tandem with an anti-hopping clutch, which offers a lighter pull.
Engine Specifications and Performance
| Engine Type | Liqui cooled, 853 cc, 4-stroke, parallel twin |
| Transmission | 6-speed constant mesh with anti-hopping clutch |
| Fuel System | Electronic Fuel Injection |
| Horsepower | 90 horsepower @ 8000 rpm |
| Torque | 63 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
6 Nimble Handling
Focus on the adventure
The best parts of this bike's handling are its lightweight chassis and ergonomic design, which offer greater balance while off-roading, cornering—even when standing still. The bridge-type frame and steel cell construction are extremely sturdy but very light. The slender fuel tank design allows the rider to have a better knee grip, and the sloping seat runs towards the tank, keeping the rider just above the engine improving the center of gravity. Equipped with a 21-inch wheel at the front and a 17-inch wheel at the rear, it provides excellent grip in wet and dry conditions, regardless of the terrain.
Chassis and Dimensions
| Frame | Bridge type frame, steel shell construction |
| Front Suspension | 43mm upside-down telescopic fork; 8.0 inch travel |
| Rear Suspension | Cast aluminum dual swing arm, central spring strut, preload and rebound damping adjustable |
| Front Brake | 305 mm dual floating disc with dual-piston floating caliper |
| Rear Brake | 265 mm single disc brake with single piston caliper |
| ABS | Dual channel ABS |
| Fuel Tank Volume | 4.0 gallons |
| Curb Weight | 504 pounds |
5 Electronic Rider Aids
Inspires confidence in riders of every skill level
Things can get really crazy and wild on an adventure ride, and that’s why riders need a bike that can support their enthusiasm and confidence through thick and thin. The 850 GS is built with this requirement in mind. This bike comes standard with Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which increases riding safety by automatically eliminating rear wheel spin. This feature comes in handy in critical situations like rain or wet surfaces, and it also facilitates efficient power transmission to the rear wheel. There are two standard selectable ride modes, namely Rain and Road, to optimize throttle response and power delivery depending on the riding condition. Besides, there are extended pro riding modes, which feature Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) that maximizes stopping power during emergency braking and Engine Braking Control (EBC) that prevents rear wheel slipping during downshifts and rapid deceleration.
4 Feature Loaded TFT Dash
6.5-inch TFT with smartphone connectivity
BMW is always ahead when it comes to adding tech features to its vehicles. The 850 GS is not an exception in this regard. The modern-looking dash features a 6.5-inch TFT screen that shows all the necessary riding information. Besides, you can connect your smartphone to this screen via Bluetooth to access vehicle information, navigation, media, and calls right on the screen. This screen is powered by an on-board computer that allows easy configuration of every feature right from the screen. An intuitive multi-controller makes operating this super easy.
3 All LED Lighting
Better visibility
The 850 GS has that special headlight design that we all loved on the 1250 GS. Also, the iconic spear-head-style indicators are there. To add a premium feel, all the lights on the 850 GS are LED. The headlight is bright and sharp and provides excellent visibility up ahead. You can further improve the lighting of your bike by choosing Motorrad's optional extras.
2 Vast Customizing Options
Build your own 850 GS
Except for the love for motorcycles and excitement of riding, no two riders are the same. Especially when it comes to adventure riding, riders have their own fantasies to fulfill. BMW, with all their experience of manufacturing adventure bikes, understands this urge of riders very well, and we can see the reflection of that in the 850 GS. The manufacturer has two customization options: the Challenger and the Explorer. The Challenger is fit for those who love off-roading, with enduro-style handlebars, foot rests, and engine and headlight guards. The explorer, on the other hand, is a specialized adventure tourer fitted with panniers, a top case, and other touring amenities to set off on your journey into the unknown.
1 Brilliant Pricing
Heavy on features, not on the pocket
The 850–900 cc adventure bike category is heavily populated. You will find options from almost every European and Japanese brand competing with each other in terms of features and pricing. BMW’s direct competition is another European giant, KTM. The 890 Adventure R has a huge fan base, but BMW comes in at around $2,500 less. BMW has mindfully maintained this pricing strategy with competing models from Honda, Suzuki, and Triumph. Obviously, the price will go up if you add optional extras, but it's the same for other brands. However, if you don't go for any customization, the 850 GS is still a formidable option.
Price Comparison
| Manufacturer | Model | Base MSRP |
| BMW | F 850 GS | $12,595 |
| Suzuki | V-Strom 800 DE | $12,999 |
| Honda | Africa Twin | $14,499 |
| Triumph | Tiger 900 GT | $14,995 |
| KTM | 890 Adventure | $15,199 |