BMW F700 and F800 rear suspension

[JamesC]

My girlfriend has a BMW gs 700 and wants to upgrade her rear suspension. Her bike is a 2016 and I was wondering how different the rear suspension was to the F800 of the same era?

[RedZed]

I cannot answer your specific question, but have you/your girlfriend considered upgrading the existing shock apposed to swapping/changing it out which is what I assume you mean?

I have just had my BMW R1200GSA rear shock overhauled for £195 which included new internal seals, an upgraded seal housing and piston. The main shock spring can also be upgraded if required, but I did not opt for this as it was fine for my set up.

You may wish to contact Luke at T Tech Suspension to see what he can suggest and what your options are for an overhaul. I was very impressed with Luke’s work and knowledge.

In my opinion an upgraded existing shock is as good as a alternative quality replacement but at a fraction of the price.

Just a suggestion for consideration, link below:

T-TECH SUSPENSION – Motorcycle Shock Absorbent Repair

Edit… Oops sorry I see you are in Portugal, so T-Tech may not work for you in this case as he is based in the UK.

[Vaufi]

The F800GS has a much better suspension than the F700/F650GS. I don't think you can exchange the components, because the F800GS is quite a bit higher than her "small" sister, so the rear shock will be too long.


To upgrade the suspension of the F700GS rather start with the fork springs and exchange them for Wilbers or Hyperpro progressive springs which already improves the handling. The rear shock isn't that bad, so rather exchange it for a better aftermarket shock later on.

[tohellnback]

Originally Posted by Vaufi

The F800GS has a much better suspension than the F700/F650GS. I don't think you can exchange the components, because the F800GS is quite a bit higher than her "small" sister, so the rear shock will be too long.


To upgrade the suspension of the F700GS rather start with the fork springs and exchange them for Wilbers or Hyperpro progressive springs which already improves the handling. The rear shock isn't that bad, so rather exchange it for a better aftermarket shock later on.

the F700-F800 has identical trellis frames and swing arms only the rear shock is longer on the 800 and tire is a 18 inch that is why the bike is taller with the inverted front forks. the f700 needs nothing enjoy the ride I have pounded mine on 56000 km paved and back roads in Colombia in the last three years
I can't think of a better all around bike

[Vaufi]

The F650/700GS and the F800GS differ mainly in the suspension plus the bigger 21" front wheel on the F800GS, whereas the 650 and 700 have the 19" wheel. All three models have a 17" rear wheel. Additionally the F800GS has a taller (and better) suspension.


Check the specs here for the F800GS: https://bmwwiki.org/models/bmw-f800gs.html


Depending on what kind of pistes you want to ride - the 650/700GS is quite a capable bike. I do lots of off-road riding in the Balkans, but I exchanged two components after my first trips with that bike: the progressive fork springs and a really solid bashplate. But still you cannot compare it with the capabilities of the F800GS.