Quickride: 2009 Bmw G650gs
QuickRide: 2009 BMW G650GS
RUMORS OF A NEW SINgle-cylinder GS were circulating months prior to the press launch of the G650GS in San Diego, California, but reality presented us with a new name on a trusty steed. Truth of the matter is that Munich had for all intents and purposes killed this model. It had even lifted the name and emblazoned it on the side of another machine, the new two-cylinder F650GS (CW, January).
GS models now reside in three engine-designation classes: single-cylinder G series, parallel-Twin F series and flat-Twin R series. The reason the G650GS exists at all is thanks to consumer demand right here in the U.S. Turns out, when BMW announced that the model would be completely eliminated following a two-year hiatus, the dealers raised a stink.
Confusion over the name aside, this is a great allarounder that deserves a place in BMW’s range. It fills a niche where there
really aren’t a lot of other options that are as well-balanced or nicely equipped, and it’s a much better choice for adventurous types than the new street-oriented F650GS Twin.
What you get for $7670 is a versatile motorcycle with standard features that others in the class don’t offer, including heated grips, an updated ABS system, fuelinjection and two seat options that are the lowest available among current dual-sports (29.5 or 30.7 inches). BMW claims a ready-to-ride weight (full
tank) of 423 pounds.
In order to continue selling this 650 Single in the U.S., particularly with the dollar so weak against the Euro, BMW had to look at options outside of Europe for engine manufacturing.
As a result, the liquidcooled, 652cc, twin-cam, four-valve Single is now produced in China to the exact specifications as the previous Rotax/Aprilia-based mill.
Although we stuck primarily to asphalt on our test day, the bike didn’t miss a beat. The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tires provide a
good compromise between onand off-road traction. Street handling is surprisingly good, allowing bike and rider to make short work of tight mountain roads. Despite a modest 53 claimed horsepower and 44 foot-pounds of torque, the engine provides enough thrust to keep things fun and easily attain triple-digit speeds if desired. Revised fuel-injection mapping delivers clean throttle response, while an estimated 59 mpg should provide a range of more than 200 miles from the underseat 4.0-gallon tank.
What you get with the G650GS is a versatile bike capable of all-day exploration on nearly any surface, while meeting the demands of a wide range of riders. All of that with creature comforts that you will only find on a BMW. With options that include low suspension ($175) and a centerstand ($150), BMW’s accessory catalog will provide you with the rest of the gear you need for any adventure you can dream up. O
“Back by popular demand, with a new name, the G650GS still spells adventure -Blake Conner
