BMW G 650 GS

BMW's got all bases covered with its GS-badged adventure range. There's the boss cocky in the form of the R 1200 GS (and GS Adventure), which packs a delicious power punch; the F 800 GS; which has a similar sizzle factor save for a few less ponies; and the single-cylinder G 650 GS, the only entry-level and LAMS-approver motorcycle in BMW's line-up.

But it's amazing how times change. Once upon a time, when the G 650 GS was known as the F 650 GS (and there was also a F 650 GS Dakar version, too), it would automatically be one of the bikes shortlisted as an around Australia mount, but now there are just too many heavier duty alternatives on the market that it's been practically pushed aside from that adventure segment.

But that doesn't mean it's made itself redundant, far from it, as the G 650 GS remains an excellent commuter, but fully up to the task of meeting the demands of some light to moderate off-road jostling - and without cannibalising sales of its two GS stablemates.

In 2010, the G 650 GS was given quite a cosmetic makeover, with completely redesigned bodywork, an asymmetrical headlamp (a GS family trait) and more liberal use of black on the engine, exhaust covers, frame, swingarm and slide tubes.

There's also white across the side panels and frontal area, and a smattering of red on the otherwise black seat.

There's no doubt it's now a more edgy design, which I reckon will appeal to a younger crowd. But it certainly isn't pretentious in the styling stakes, as BMW continues to give more credence to attributes such as comfort and user-friendliness - the staples that LAMS riders require.

The new cast light-alloy 10-spoke wheels are 19-inch (front) and 17-inch in diameter, replacing the wire spokes on the previous model - a none-too subtle shift away from an off-road focus. I have no problems with the strategy per se; it's just the wire spokes looked trick.

ABS (switchable), heated grips, a remote preload adjustor and centrestand still remain as standard fitment on the G 650 GS, the type of practical features which make the $11,990 price tag seem very reasonable.

The G 650 GS, which was reintroduced into Australia in April, 2009, replacing the previous "G" 650cc manifestations -- the G 650 Xcountry, Xchallenge and Xmoto machines - is powered by a 652cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, fuel injected engine, producing 50hp (37kW) and 60Nm. There's a five-speed gearbox and 14-litre fuel tank, housed under the seat.

The engine is an honest workhorse, with maximum torque at 4800rpm. That's about the area where you'll spend most of your time, although it will pull cleanly in top gear from way down in the rpm basement.

To smooth out the whole process, it's best to keep the big single revving, and it will duly oblige. The power delivery certainly won't have you searching for the nearest point and shoot road, but it's capable of growing some teeth to maintain a nice level of stimulation.

If you take a more lazy approach and try and punch out of a turn in a taller gear, it can lead to a fair bit of transmission snatch - another reason to keep the engine spinning hard.

There are a few vibes, signature stuff for a big single, and I felt them most at the base of the dummy tank when I wrapped my legs in tight. But certainly nothing that left me feeling cold.

Average fuel consumption for a 50-50 mix of highway and city riding was 4.56lt/100km. Fuel capacity is 14 litres.

In the city, the G 650 GS is impossibly easy to ride, with an upright riding stance, comfortable seat, a good turning circle from the short 1477mm wheelbase, and a nice take-up from the hydraulic clutch. And the gearbox action is quite slick, adding to what is a very competent and orthodox package.

The suspension on is a combination of non-adjustable telescopic fork and preload (remote) and rebound-adjustable monoshock, with 170 and 160mm of spring travel respectively.

Generally, when bikes are built to a price, the suspension and brakes are the ones that take the lion's share of the hit. That's probably the case on the G 650 GS, but the suspension is certainly fine for most punters, and they'll enjoy even the hardest hits being soaked up with ease.

I like the brakes: there's plenty of feel, and that continues until the power really kicks in. Braking is via a single 300mm disc on the front and 240mm on the rear, gripped by double and single-piston calipers respectively. The ABS is switchable, but I didn't turn it off the whole time I had it.

The G 650 GS is a proficient, multi-purpose motorcycle. It doesn't always deliver a massive thrill, but as a commuting package it lowers its colours to very few. And we're talking about a bike for under 12K.

TRANSMISSION
Type: Five speed
Final drive: Chain

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed dry weight: 175kg
Claimed wet weight: 192kg
Seat height: 750mm (option) or 780mm
Wheelbase: 1477mm
Fuel capacity: 14 litres

OTHER STUFF
Price: $11,990
Colours: Red or black
Bike supplied by: BMW Motorrad Australia (www.bmwmotorrad.com.au)
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres