The 2009 BMW G450X isn't a tourer or a sensible commuter. We've watched the Bavarian company as it's worked hard to change its image from that of a stodgy builder of tourers and commuters to a producer of a more fleshed-out lineup that includes high-performance machinery like the 2008 HP2 Sport and 2008 Megamoto. But a hard-edged, lightweight, BMW...dirtbike? With a chain drive and racy focus? Ach du lieber!
Even though this new 450cc machine is a dramatic departure from the company's more usual touring fare, the engineers also didn't play it safe by simply copying current dirtbike designs. The frame design and compact engine allow the cylinder to be tilted forward 30 degrees, creating a larger area above the powerplant for the airbox and dual-throttle-valve fuel-injection—an enduro first—as well as giving the intake tract a straighter shot down into the combustion chamber. The airbox displaced the fuel tank, so the 2.1 gallons of fuel is carried under the seat, with a filler recessed into the rear section of the seat.
Our first ride on the bike was just outside of Malaga, Spain, where BMW set up a few hardcore off-road courses. Conditions were similar to what is found in Southern California, and the terrain was anything but smooth. The demanding terrain meant this new BMW would really have to work to make a good impression. Evidence? I was changing suspension settings for the better part of the day to get the 450X into its handling sweet spot.
While its claimed dry weight is 245 pounds, a few pounds under that of the street-legal competition, the X feels about average in steering response and flickability. Normal body input yields expected chassis movement and response. The bike handled best when ridden standing up, as if I was attacking obstacles in a trials-like position. I felt perched up and leaned forward on the BMW, whereas I feel more laid back and "in" a Japanese enduro.
At this point, the overall balance of the bike is not yet at top level, at least not for aggressive racing-type riding. We reserve judgment until we get a "final" spec bike for testing stateside. For more casual riders out to play, the 450X's overall handling is good and the bike is fun to ride. It is part dual-sport, after all.
After my ride in Spain, I have a good idea of how the G450X will perform when it hits American dirt. But several questions remain, and the first is price. With the dwindling value of the dollar, that figure won't likely be set until close to the bike's expected fall release.
In the end, this is a solid ride that uses non-traditional methods to get the "dirty" job done, and it performs on a level that is competitive with traditional platforms. At this point, though, it doesn't work any better than the conventional offerings, so the G450X's defining factor is its uniqueness, a trait that will make people stare, question and converse. But make no mistake, the BMW dirtbike has arrived!