Milan—The dramatic evolution of the immortal boxer-Twin wasn’t the only novelty BMW had up its sleeve this year. At EICMA, BMW unveiled a full-dress version of the F series parallel-Twin that will replace the F800ST.
A sporty yet protective fairing is the major styling addition to the F800GT, which retains the ST’s other body components, including the 4.0-gallon gas tank and stepped seat. To my eyes, the new combination is more attractive than the ST, especially in elegant Metallic Dark Graphite.
The dohc 798cc engine now generates a claimed 90 horsepower at 8000 rpm, 5 hp more than the F800ST, with a respectable 63.4 foot-pounds of peak torque at 5800 rpm. The bike is equipped with twin 320mm front-brake rotors and four-piston Brembo calipers. ABS is standard equipment.
BMW says the belt-driven bike tips the scales at 470 pounds, yet it reportedly accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds and is capable of speeds greater than 120 mph.
Ergonomics have been improved over the ST by adopting a taller handlebar to take advantage of the wind and weather protection granted by the new fairing.
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) are factory-installed options. BMW also offers saddlebags, a top case, heated grips and an Akrapovic titanium slip-on silencer that saves about 4 pounds and should make the engine note sound throatier.
