2018 BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS test: which one to choose ?
In 2018, the BMW F750GS and F850GS gain in displacement and technology to succeed the F700GS and F800GS launched in 2007. How to choose between these two versions of the trail type, designed from the same engine and chassis platform ? Answer in this double test Site !
F750GS / F850GS test page 1: Static
At first glance, the news and pass for two twins: their redesigned silhouette on the model of the is identical, just like their common twin-cylinder of 853 cc (+ 55cc) and their tubular steel frame (aluminum in 2017: see our). The two bikes also share the same Brembo two-piston calipers, the same double-spoke swingarm … and the same tiny bubble. !
- MNC special file :
- MNC special file :
However, many elements distinguish these replacements of and, to the point of making two truly distinct models. Hence the importance of clearly defining your needs and expectations before falling for one or the other, at the risk of being disappointed. This is the objective of this double MNC test: to help you make your choice. We say thank you who ?!
Less expensive (€ 9,650 against € 11,950), the F750GS develops a more road approach with its 19-inch stick front rim (21 "tangential spokes on the F850GS) and its lower travel suspensions (150 and 170 mm against 204 and 219 mm on the F850GS). Its mechanical performance limited to 77 hp and 83 Nm reinforces its accessibility compared to the F850GS, closer to a 1000 cc with its 95 hp and 92 Nm.
This difference in positioning can be seen with the handlebars in hand: a 1.70 m rider easily straddles the saddle located 815 mm from the F750GS – putting two feet practically flat – while the 850 mm of the F850GS are intended for motorcyclists of at least 1.75 m. Both skip a height-adjustable seat, yet practical to adapt to conditions: higher on the motorway and lower in off-road, for example..
The 15-liter fuel tank – replaced in the "traditional" position between the handlebars and the saddle – rises high enough in order to contain its narrowness at its base, to promote accessibility. This bottle also offers deep cutouts where the thighs and knees are comfortably wedged, whatever their size, including on the small "750". A remarkable ergonomic success: adults and children alike are well installed !
Side template, the F750GS and F850GS are less intimidating than a 1200 cc maxitrail, much more wrapped. Despite identical volumes to the F850GS, the "seven and a half" is the most reassuring because its saddle and handlebars are lower. If its handlebars were not so wide, it would almost evoke a roadster! Conversely, the "eight and a half" is a "real" trail: high on legs and provided with a raised handlebar better suited to the standing position in all terrain..
The weight (and the price) of a 1000 cc
The first maneuvers with the engine off show the formidable turning radius of the F750GS and F850GS, as well as their noticeable weight gain (+12 kg each) largely due to the transition to steel of the frame. With 224 and 229 kg respectively, overweight on the scale is not negligible: here they are just a few kilos of one (228 kg) and one (232 kg without DCT). Beside, a pass for a featherweight with its 213 kg !
Another area where these two BMW trails flirt with the 1000 cc: their prices, which reach peaks when the many essential options are installed! Center stand (yet practical for maintaining the chain), luggage rack with suitcase racks, cruise control, handguards (on a trail: is it a joke ?!), heated grips and engine guard (on F750GS only) are all elements that must be added to the original endowment…
Likewise, if the two motorcycles are delivered as standard with two driving modes – Rain and Road – which act on the injection but also the sensitivity of the disconnectable ABS and traction control, you have to go through the options box to access additional modes: Dynamic, Enduro and Enduro Pro (only available on the F850GS).
- MNC Smart-Video :
- MNC test :
Same story for the shifter, ESA electronically controlled damping or the new 6.5-inch color TFT matrix instrumentation discovered on the latest R1200GS. Too bad, because this one is simply the best in the category: readable and intuitive, this € 615 dashboard is full of relevant information. It can even be connected to a telephone and partly replace a GPS (more information in and in our).
Put end to end thanks to the “expensive” BMW Packs, all these options put the F850GS over € 15,000 (up to € 16,005 for the Rallye and Exclusive versions with all the options)! Either the same price positioning – quite delusional – as Triumph with its € 14,950. And to think that the 1200 cc maxi-trails were traded at this price not so long ago…
As for the F750GS in its Exclusive version (with specific color and handguards) and all the options as tested here, it totally reaches 13,500 €. That’s the price of a 2018 Honda Africa Twin (€ 13,549 without DCT)! We are far, very far, from the € 8,049 requested by Kawasaki for its and the € 8,399 necessary for the purchase of a Suzuki …
Still, its sophistication is a very clear cut above its Japanese rivals: the F750GS – like the F850GS – is moreover the only motorcycle in its category to offer electronic control of its rear suspension (ESA, + 455 €). The BMW trails also stand out thanks to their unprecedented (+315 €), option that can be operated from the right stalk in the event of an accident..
Presentation without show and engine "made in China"
In terms of presentation, however, BMW trails do not fully justify their "Premium" price. The finish is certainly of a good level and we appreciate among other things the elegance of the new stainless steel silencer, as well as the presence of reinforced hoses, adjustable levers and elbow valves. The category-specific "beak" and the sharp sides are also aesthetically successful..
But some parts and materials could be more upscale. The soft plastic cover of the tank does not produce a "beef" effect for example, nor does the passable integration of the rear suspension cylinder, above the rear left footrest..
We also regret the lack of adjustments on the fork – inverted on the 850, telescopic on the 750 – and the basic engine hardware common to both motorcycles. Another possible reason for dissatisfaction: this "vertical twin" is designed by BMW … but manufactured in the Chinese factory of Loncin, with which the German brand is also collaborating for its new scooter .
Globalization, when you hold us … But can we blame BMW for using the essential Asian lever to lower its production costs? After all, the "so British" Triumph builds their cars well in Thailand. MNC notes all the same that the hyper neat finish of the English rivals is more rewarding !
- Continuation of our F750GS / F850GS test in our !
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