2019 EICMA: BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR

BMW has unveiled a new F 900 platform at the 2019 EICMA show in Milan, replacing the outgoing F 800 R with the F 900 R and adding an F 900 XR to sit below the firm’s S 1000 XR.

Both machines are powered by a modified version of the outgoing 798cc parallel-twin engine. Now out to 895cc, the Euro 5-compliant engine makes 103hp at 8500rpm and 92Nm of torque 2000rpm earlier at 6500rpm.

Traction control and ABS are standard fitment, but an optional Riding Mode Pro adds lean-angle sensitivity to these functions. Electronic suspension adjustment is also an optional extra, as is adaptive headlights, though each bike can boast a 6.6-inch full-colour TFT dash.

Both machines share the same steel bridge chassis and, despite their quite different appearances, are only separated on the scales by 8kg.

The XR offers more rider protection with a large screen and more bodywork encompassing the frontal area of the bike, while the handlebar risers makes for more upright ergonomics for longer days in the saddle. The seat height is 10mm higher on the XR, which makes for slightly more legroom, too.

There’s only 3mm difference in wheelbase (1521mm versus 1518mm on the R), 2.5 litres difference in fuel tank capacities (15.5 v 13), though the ride position and 10mm difference in trail should make for two unique feeling machines.

Related:
2019 EICMA coverage