Last year, the second-generation, single-cylinder BMW G650GS—previously called the F650GS before that name was reassigned to the entry-level GS Twin in the U.S.—made a glorious comeback, replacing the not-quite-so successful third-generation G650X models. Following on the coattails of last year’s successful GS is the more off-road-oriented G650GS Sertao, which is essentially an “Adventure” version of the 650 Single. The name Sertao is borrowed from the desert of the same name in northern Brazil.
Compared to the G650GS, the Sertao has extensively modified rolling gear, while the engine and frame structure are 100-percent identical to the base model. The engine is a very solid and reliable liquid-cooled, dohc, four-valve Single with 100.0 x 83.0mm bore-and-stroke dimensions and features twin-spark ignition, EFI with a 43mm throttle body and an 11.5:1 compression ratio. The resultant output is 48.0 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 44.2 foot-pounds of peak torque at 5000 rpm.
Major modifications were made in the suspension department. Wheel travel has been increased to 8.2 inches front and rear, compared to the GS’s 6.7 and 6.5, respectively. This, in combination with new wire-spoke wheels in 2.50 x 21 in. and 3.00 x 17 in. sizes (replacing the GS’s cast aluminum units), ensures more-effective off-road capabilities. Tires are Metzeler Tourance semi-knobbies in 90/90-21 front and 130/80-17 rear sizes.
Because the 41mm fork is much longer than that of the GS, it was fitted with a brace at the top of the sliders to prevent misalignment caused by torsional loads. The natural consequence of the taller suspension is a substantial increase in seat height from 31.5 to 33.8 in. Wheelbase now spans 58.4 in., up by 0.3 in. due to the extra length of the fork tubes. Trail has increased by almost a half an inch, as well, because of the larger-diameter front wheel, but the steering angle remains at 28.1 degrees. At a claimed 425 pounds “ready to ride” (3.7-gallon fuel tank 90-percent full, according to BMW), the Sertao weighs just two pounds more than the GS version.
Braking is handled by a 300mm stainless-steel floating rotor and Brembo two-piston caliper up front and a 240mm disc pinched by a single-piston caliper out back.
The new G650GS Sertao is well equipped with highlights such as an ergonomically conformed handlebar with handguards, a medium-height windshield and a luggage rack. A very protective, forged-aluminum oil-pan guard is wisely fitted. A long list of optional equipment is available, including various hard bags, luggage, heated grips, alarm system, optional high seat (35.4 in.) and ABS. Pricing has not yet been set.
