Bmw F800gs Q&A - Page 5

RTW Motorcycling · 08-27-2008, 10:25 AM

Incomplete picture, but here is a pic of the bike partially disassembled. I think it looks pretty fearsome when mostly black, again someone will make a custom black one no doubt. The side panels are an excellent design, the beak comes off, the air filter cover, and the side panels. Very easy access, although most people will never need to remove, you can easily access the air filter and batttery from the top of the faux tank.

While I'm at it, here's a pic the rear rack that's on the bike and usually hidden by the soft bag. (I can't take any credit for that rack, it was designed by a person who probably best epitomizes what it means to have the biking spirit and shows it by going out of his way to help fellow bikers. Unbelievable guy.)

RobTheRigger · 08-27-2008, 11:03 AM

GREAT info, RTW. Thanks for being so thourough and patient with us.

-Rob

DireWolf · 08-27-2008, 11:47 AM

RTW - Thanks for all the effort. Great thread.

Infallible · 08-27-2008, 11:48 AM

I just returned back from my local Beemer dealer. They had one 658 (red) and 800GS just arrived and in the final stages of reassembly. They are both great looking machines, particulary the 800gs which I summed up by saying "holy shit that thing is cool" to which the service tech replied "yup, thats the only way to put it." The pictures do not do this bike justice.

rajelus · 08-27-2008, 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Infallible

I just returned back from my local Beemer dealer. They had one 658 (red) and 800GS just arrived and in the final stages of reassembly. They are both great looking machines, particulary the 800gs which I summed up by saying "holy shit that thing is cool" to which the service tech replied "yup, thats the only way to put it." The pictures do not do this bike justice.

What area are you located in?

I am eagerly awaiting the bike and I am starting to hear dealerships getting them in.

Oh joyous times...

RTW Motorcycling · 08-27-2008, 06:12 PM

Like many bikes, there is much debate in regards to the whether each of the stock features on the bike are adequate, or do they need to be replaced with better farkles.

When setting up any bike for a long trip, I remember wading through the many discussions and thinking that there were a lot of conflicting opinions. Things that I didn't even know existed now had to be replaced. Eventually, I figured out that for every part, there is someone on the forums that is fanatical about that issue. Therefore, it is almost like the defacto common solution for many items is to replace. Taken as a whole, it is easy to get to the point where you think that the entire bike needs to be replaced. This is of course not true. The solution that worked for me was to approach everything slighty skeptically, first test the stock item extensively and if for my usage it came up short, I would replace it. I would recommend you do the same.

In that vein, many people have asked about some standard items and rather than get into a confusing debate about whether it really needs to be replaced or not, I'll try to summarize as to whether it is a want or a need from my perspective and assign a ranking of 1 to 5 (1 being a nice to have and 5 being a need to have). Don't get me wrong, I love buying new, cool stuff as much as the next guy but sometimes it makes more sense for me to admit that I bought someting just because it was fun, rather than necessary. Hopefully that information will be helpful to a fellow rider and will help him in his decision.

Ask way if there is something you are wondering about or have read about and think it should be included.

1 - Minimal Importance - (Only a Nice to Have)
2 - Sort of Important - (Mostly a Nice to Have)
3 - Half Important - (Half Nice to Have/Half Need to Have)
4 - Quite Important - (Mostly a Need to Have)
5 - Very Important - (Very Much a Need to Have)

Larger fuel tanks - two (2). On side to side comparison with a 1200GS on the way to Alaska, we had very similar ranges with the 800 coming up slightly shorter. I don't know for sure, but I'm guessing that extending the fuel range of the 1200 isn't brought up much. For some reason, the small tank has scared a lot of people. I ran the 17 liter tank (again, it's a liter bigger than indicated if you fill to the brim) in North and South America and used the easiest solution, I carried a 10 liter gas can, like almost everyone. I needed it once in Alaska, but a few times in South America, primarily southern Argentina. In Russia and Mongolia, the KLR had a 16 liter tank and I used the spare gas once, on the last day 2 km from town. I think the fear of running out of gas is real, but a bit too much time and money get spent trying to avoid it. Of course this depends on where you ride, for some it is a real concern, but for most, not really.

Items to reduce vibration - (1). Most people, especially if you have ridden a thumper, will find the vibration minimal. If you come from an ultra smooth big bike, then you will notice it but I felt no effects after many long days. Easiest solution is a set of grip puppies, that should pacify all but the most picky riders. Snakes, etc are all solutions for thumpers, not most average riders on this bike. Different bikes do vibrate differently though, depends on what is bolted to it etc., and people's sensitivity due to prior injuries etc. but in general a matter of comfort, not necessity.

Crash Bars - (5) as stated previously.

Skid Plate - (5) as stated previously

Seat Improvement - (2) fine for me as stated previously

Improved Wind Screen - (4), (5) for sustained highway riding.

Rear Lugggage Rack - (4) if you plan on strapping bags or luggage to it.

Anything else out there?

AirDoc · 08-27-2008, 08:13 PM

Hey RTW,

Thanks for a great write-up. I'm still waiting for mine (ordered it last October!). For now I'm riding a weestrom, but can't wait for my 800t to arrive. Your posts have been extremely informative and I know we all appreciate it!

You mentioned that someone would soon make a Supermoto version of the F800GS. No need to wait, it's been done:

http://f800riders.org/forum/showthread.php?t=12870

Enjoy!

Bucko · 08-27-2008, 08:37 PM

Yo RTW,

Thanks for the low-down on the accessories. I like to leave my bikes mostly stock until I get a grip on what they (and I) really need. Partly, I'm cheap; partly I'd rather ride than diddle with the bike; partly I prefer simple over complex. I'll definitely get the protection parts for my new baby, and a rack, then ride and see what needs fixing or enhancing. I've never been a tank pannier fan, but I'll dust off my Wolfmans and give them a go. My one disappointment with the GS8 is the small 'tank' that's made even smaller by the key and electrical outlet. Adios, tankbag!

AngryRed · 08-27-2008, 09:20 PM

The first thing I thought when I started reading this thread was "finally!". Finally some viable and valuable information on this bike I have been lusting over by a real rider none-the-less.

I can't thank you enough RTW.

Actually I have one question for you. If you were to do it all again would you choose the 800GS or another bike?

DoctorIt · 08-28-2008, 05:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RTW Motorcycling

Hey Doc,

Lol, it would probably work like gang busters - it's called the new 650 twin!

Once again, fantastic answers, thanks mate!

I think the 19" front off the 650 could be a popular mod, indeed. Still good enough for off-roading, but not quite so over-bearing. And thanks for pointing out the new 650... I did a side-side comparo on bmwmotorcycles.com just because I didn't know what else was different on the 800. Besides the accessories and front fork, all specs where the same, so why does the 650 have 14 less hp? Same engine right?

AirDoc · 08-28-2008, 06:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DoctorIt

Once again, fantastic answers, thanks mate!

I think the 19" front off the 650 could be a popular mod, indeed. Still good enough for off-roading, but not quite so over-bearing. And thanks for pointing out the new 650... I did a side-side comparo on bmwmotorcycles.com just because I didn't know what else was different on the 800. Besides the accessories and front fork, all specs where the same, so why does the 650 have 14 less hp? Same engine right?

The 650 twin has only one front rotor and the 800 has two, so while you might be able to mount the wheel, you would have to figure out the brake situation. I'm sure a wheel builder could make a 19 inch wheel with the stock 800GS hub, rotors and abs stuff. Won't be cheap, though...

rajelus · 08-28-2008, 07:41 AM

Thanks RTW. This is definitely some of the best information out there on the web right now. You are definitely making my lust after my bike. Calling dealer.....

RTW Motorcycling · 08-28-2008, 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AirDoc

Hey RTW,

Thanks for a great write-up. I'm still waiting for mine (ordered it last October!). For now I'm riding a weestrom, but can't wait for my 800t to arrive. Your posts have been extremely informative and I know we all appreciate it!

You mentioned that someone would soon make a Supermoto version of the F800GS. No need to wait, it's been done:

http://f800riders.org/forum/showthread.php?t=12870

Enjoy!

Thanks AirDoc, didn't take long! Looks pretty cool.

Unloaded and on the stock tires (Battlewings) it was a blast to ride around and feels "supermotardish". It was one of the things that I found a pleasantly surprising, it handled so well and was fun to honk around the city on.

RTW Motorcycling · 08-28-2008, 09:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bucko

Yo RTW,

Thanks for the low-down on the accessories. I like to leave my bikes mostly stock until I get a grip on what they (and I) really need. Partly, I'm cheap; partly I'd rather ride than diddle with the bike; partly I prefer simple over complex. I'll definitely get the protection parts for my new baby, and a rack, then ride and see what needs fixing or enhancing. I've never been a tank pannier fan, but I'll dust off my Wolfmans and give them a go. My one disappointment with the GS8 is the small 'tank' that's made even smaller by the key and electrical outlet. Adios, tankbag!

Hey Bucko,

Thanks for bringing that up, you are very right, the key location even diminshes the available space even further. The seat rides up high on the tank so the avaialble space is really quite small.

FreddyJey · 08-28-2008, 09:29 AM

Hi, Thanks for an informative and good thread. I own a 800gs and I do not understand why every one are talking about changing the front wheel to a smaller one. I see no downsides with it, exept it feels a little nervous in the beginning. After couple of kms you get used to it.

One question from me too. Do you use the stock foot pegs? I get a bit tired after long stretches standing up.

Regards
Freddy

08-27-2008, 10:25 AM	#61
RTW Motorcycling ^OP Gnarly Adventurer Joined: Jun 2008 Location: B.C. Oddometer: 105	Naked Incomplete picture, but here is a pic of the bike partially disassembled. I think it looks pretty fearsome when mostly black, again someone will make a custom black one no doubt. The side panels are an excellent design, the beak comes off, the air filter cover, and the side panels. Very easy access, although most people will never need to remove, you can easily access the air filter and batttery from the top of the faux tank. While I'm at it, here's a pic the rear rack that's on the bike and usually hidden by the soft bag. (I can't take any credit for that rack, it was designed by a person who probably best epitomizes what it means to have the biking spirit and shows it by going out of his way to help fellow bikers. Unbelievable guy.)

08-27-2008, 11:03 AM	#62
RobTheRigger Studly Adventurer Joined: Jul 2008 Location: VA Beach Oddometer: 581	GREAT info, RTW. Thanks for being so thourough and patient with us. -Rob __________________ I can imagine a no more rewarding career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: "I served in the United States Navy." JFK "I rode a lot of dirt bikes when I was younger, so I trust the chain and sprockets more than that newfangled voodoo shaft stuff!" DolphinJohn

08-27-2008, 11:47 AM	#63
DireWolf Knees in the Breeze Joined: Jun 2006 Location: In the Mustard Booyah. Whooop!! Oddometer: 4,720	RTW - Thanks for all the effort. Great thread. __________________ And all you are left with is a vast featureless blancmange de merde. - Bongolia 2003 XR650R (plated) For Sale

08-27-2008, 06:12 PM	#66
RTW Motorcycling ^OP Gnarly Adventurer Joined: Jun 2008 Location: B.C. Oddometer: 105	Farkles - Needs and Wants Like many bikes, there is much debate in regards to the whether each of the stock features on the bike are adequate, or do they need to be replaced with better farkles. When setting up any bike for a long trip, I remember wading through the many discussions and thinking that there were a lot of conflicting opinions. Things that I didn't even know existed now had to be replaced. Eventually, I figured out that for every part, there is someone on the forums that is fanatical about that issue. Therefore, it is almost like the defacto common solution for many items is to replace. Taken as a whole, it is easy to get to the point where you think that the entire bike needs to be replaced. This is of course not true. The solution that worked for me was to approach everything slighty skeptically, first test the stock item extensively and if for my usage it came up short, I would replace it. I would recommend you do the same. In that vein, many people have asked about some standard items and rather than get into a confusing debate about whether it really needs to be replaced or not, I'll try to summarize as to whether it is a want or a need from my perspective and assign a ranking of 1 to 5 (1 being a nice to have and 5 being a need to have). Don't get me wrong, I love buying new, cool stuff as much as the next guy but sometimes it makes more sense for me to admit that I bought someting just because it was fun, rather than necessary. Hopefully that information will be helpful to a fellow rider and will help him in his decision. Ask way if there is something you are wondering about or have read about and think it should be included. 1 - Minimal Importance - (Only a Nice to Have) 2 - Sort of Important - (Mostly a Nice to Have) 3 - Half Important - (Half Nice to Have/Half Need to Have) 4 - Quite Important - (Mostly a Need to Have) 5 - Very Important - (Very Much a Need to Have) Larger fuel tanks - two (2). On side to side comparison with a 1200GS on the way to Alaska, we had very similar ranges with the 800 coming up slightly shorter. I don't know for sure, but I'm guessing that extending the fuel range of the 1200 isn't brought up much. For some reason, the small tank has scared a lot of people. I ran the 17 liter tank (again, it's a liter bigger than indicated if you fill to the brim) in North and South America and used the easiest solution, I carried a 10 liter gas can, like almost everyone. I needed it once in Alaska, but a few times in South America, primarily southern Argentina. In Russia and Mongolia, the KLR had a 16 liter tank and I used the spare gas once, on the last day 2 km from town. I think the fear of running out of gas is real, but a bit too much time and money get spent trying to avoid it. Of course this depends on where you ride, for some it is a real concern, but for most, not really. Items to reduce vibration - (1). Most people, especially if you have ridden a thumper, will find the vibration minimal. If you come from an ultra smooth big bike, then you will notice it but I felt no effects after many long days. Easiest solution is a set of grip puppies, that should pacify all but the most picky riders. Snakes, etc are all solutions for thumpers, not most average riders on this bike. Different bikes do vibrate differently though, depends on what is bolted to it etc., and people's sensitivity due to prior injuries etc. but in general a matter of comfort, not necessity. Crash Bars - (5) as stated previously. Skid Plate - (5) as stated previously Seat Improvement - (2) fine for me as stated previously Improved Wind Screen - (4), (5) for sustained highway riding. Rear Lugggage Rack - (4) if you plan on strapping bags or luggage to it. Anything else out there? RTW Motorcycling screwed with this post 08-27-2008 at 06:25 PM

08-27-2008, 08:13 PM	#67
AirDoc Adventurer Joined: Oct 2006 Location: Sacramento, CA Oddometer: 13	F800GS Sumpermotard Hey RTW, Thanks for a great write-up. I'm still waiting for mine (ordered it last October!). For now I'm riding a weestrom, but can't wait for my 800t to arrive. Your posts have been extremely informative and I know we all appreciate it! You mentioned that someone would soon make a Supermoto version of the F800GS. No need to wait, it's been done: http://f800riders.org/forum/showthread.php?t=12870 Enjoy!

08-27-2008, 11:48 AM	#64
Infallible Into the Wild Blue Yonder Joined: Jun 2005 Location: one and one is two Oddometer: 1,058	I just returned back from my local Beemer dealer. They had one 658 (red) and 800GS just arrived and in the final stages of reassembly. They are both great looking machines, particulary the 800gs which I summed up by saying "holy shit that thing is cool" to which the service tech replied "yup, thats the only way to put it." The pictures do not do this bike justice.

08-27-2008, 08:37 PM	#68
Bucko In a parallel world Joined: Mar 2004 Location: South Coast, CA Oddometer: 800	Yo RTW, Thanks for the low-down on the accessories. I like to leave my bikes mostly stock until I get a grip on what they (and I) really need. Partly, I'm cheap; partly I'd rather ride than diddle with the bike; partly I prefer simple over complex. I'll definitely get the protection parts for my new baby, and a rack, then ride and see what needs fixing or enhancing. I've never been a tank pannier fan, but I'll dust off my Wolfmans and give them a go. My one disappointment with the GS8 is the small 'tank' that's made even smaller by the key and electrical outlet. Adios, tankbag!

08-27-2008, 09:20 PM	#69
AngryRed Lost in Cyber Space Joined: Mar 2006 Location: Vegas, yeah yeah woo... Oddometer: 347	The first thing I thought when I started reading this thread was "finally!". Finally some viable and valuable information on this bike I have been lusting over by a real rider none-the-less. I can't thank you enough RTW. Actually I have one question for you. If you were to do it all again would you choose the 800GS or another bike? __________________ -------------------- 2009 F800GS AngryRed screwed with this post 08-27-2008 at 09:35 PM

08-28-2008, 07:41 AM	#72
rajelus Adventurer Joined: Aug 2008 Location: Seattle Oddometer: 37	Thanks Thanks RTW. This is definitely some of the best information out there on the web right now. You are definitely making my lust after my bike. Calling dealer.....

08-28-2008, 09:29 AM	#75
FreddyJey n00b Joined: Aug 2008 Oddometer: 7	Hi, Thanks for an informative and good thread. I own a 800gs and I do not understand why every one are talking about changing the front wheel to a smaller one. I see no downsides with it, exept it feels a little nervous in the beginning. After couple of kms you get used to it. One question from me too. Do you use the stock foot pegs? I get a bit tired after long stretches standing up. Regards Freddy

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