BMW F 800 GS first ride

After the planet exploding 1300GS and the climb-anywhere 900GS, the slower, smaller, less off-roady 800GS seems a tad pedestrian. But what if you’re a GS rider who doesn’t want to GS quite as much as other GS riders? This might be just for you.

[deadcurls]

I test drove the new f900gs, the f800gs and an older 2022 f850gsa and ended up brining home the f800gs yesterday. It’s absolutely amazing, especially in dynamic mode. It’s my first adventure bike, coming from cruisers, and I think how well a rider meshes with his bike is very important. The f900 did not feel all that much faster for day to day riding, in fact it was actually more uncomfortable to me and I did not like the location of the passenger foot pegs. I preferred the gsa over it actually, and you could feel the weight on that thing. The f800gs hit the sweet spot. It moved with me rather than feeling like I have to move the bike, like on the gsa. And it handles similar to a sport bike, just nimble and fun, and more importantly, it inspired confidence and that helps you get out and off the beaten path more. I really thought I’d leave with either of the other bikes, but goes to show you, specs on paper can’t show you real world feel.

[RyandKyHarleyGuys]

Looks like a super fun bike! Love the videos!!!

[mattwheels]

Test rode the F750GS last time I was considering buying a motorcycle. It was a fantastic and very sensible bike. I could argue it's all the bike anyone needs. It's a great all rounder. If one uses a motorcycle to commute, go out on some after work fun and the occasional tour, this can do it all. However, it is a bit too sensible. It doesn't have the X factor that makes you feel special every time you look at it and get it out on a ride.

I can only compere it to other bikes I had, but both my SV650 and my current R1200R has so much more "character" for lack of a better world while still being excellent everyday motorcycles. The engine in the SV is fantastic, the way it delivers its power and the noise it makes just brings a smile to my face even on a mundane commute. And my big boxer, it's amazing. The sound it makes when you fire it up (granted, I have the Akra can on it which makes a huge difference), the rocking of the boxer on revving from idle. The weight distribution and sheer stability and comfort you get from the ESA and the low slung weight, fantastic. And when shopping used and finding an R or even an RS close to the price of a 750GS makes the latter difficult to pick. But yes, you can forgot about getting a big GS for a similar price, that's not an option.

[luddite]

Great review. As a UK rider, it always confuses me to see a bike riding on the left side of the road but with glorious weather through stunning scenery! (Jealous? Me? What a ridiculous suggestion!)

[rubenflex]

Okay question, does anyone know what actually happened to Harry Fisher? I and a number of viewers had asked it at the time. But got strange answers. Now with the sad death of Mat, will someone else take his place?

[marklevy]

The 1250/1300GS i get - but this? Trying to understand the value prop vs a Transalp or 800 V-strom (road version) for example.

[bjrnhjjakobsen]

Same concept as the F700GS - my trusty😂

[jameslast]

Where are you riding? Looks like a great place for a breakfast run! 😄

[dashuntas.m]

If a lot of people were more honest with themselves, this is the bike they’d be getting as opposed to the more hardcore midsized ADVs or Large capacity ADVs. still, people like what they like and buy what they want I guess

[jamesonpace]

Not just good, it's good enough....

[BN]

Not sure if you need a better helmet mic fella?

[EireRider.motorcycle.adventure]

for me BMW should never have named this bike the F800GS. This has nothing to do with the original which is legendary! It sad to see them use a name which ended its life at the top of its game then to be reused on a bike that in my opinion doesn't deserve it! Perfect example of BMW thinking money rather than common sense! average suspension and seriously overweight when compared to its competitors. Rather buy a Honda Transalp or even a T7 which are far better value. Hell even the Triumph 850 Sport is a better option!