F650GS (800cc)
 

BMW F650GS 800cc 2012 models in the uk can be picked up for around 4K with low miles. Of course a 7-8k AT, T700, or newer GS maybe a better bet but I can’t ignore the 4K saving on what all the contemporary reviews say is a great bike. Does anyone here have any recent first hand ‘owners’ experience with them? ie do they age well, reliable etc.

I've had two of them, the first was a 2008 model and had so many repeated failures of many types (including rear wheel bearing in the middle of Morocco) that BMW funded the replacement with a second 2009 model bike, which my son-in-law now owns.

http://www.morocco-knowledgebase.net...a_top_1000.jpg
My second F650GS in Morocco in winter

There were huge problems initially but I guess later model year bikes will be much better.

The reason I bought the F650GS rather than the F800GS was primarily the tubeless tyres.

Well, I dithered too long and it’s been sold

Here's a 2012 F700GS (next generation model) for under £4,500.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/bike-de...01907260491270

Own two - 2009 F650gs and a 2013 F700gs
 

The 2009 F650gs has now 86k miles. Runs like a clock, but had to perform many mechanical and electrical (stator-replacement twice) repairs throughout its life. The 2013 F700gs has now a little over 13k miles, nicer and more responsive bike. No issues whatsoever with this bike.

I'm short legged fellow and like these bikes for their low seat-to-ground height.

Three years ago I bought my F650GS twin with only 10 kkms on the clock. Now I'm getting near 50 kkms - so fa without any problems whatsoever.


The bike handles very well, it doesn't weigh as much as my old 2V GS and it is very easy on fuel. Depending on the trip it consumption is between 3,3 and 3,9 litres on 100 km.


The only drawback is the low ground clearance, but you can help yourself with a sturdy bashplate.



In Germany it is generally seen as a girl-bike, probably due to the alloy rims and low height. Fortunately I'm beyond the age where dick bikes are important :innocent: I fitted a higher seat and a massive bashplate. And I love the tubeless rims.