BMW F 900 R Review 2025

The numbers speak for themselves: With 2,205 new registrations in Germany in 2024, the BMW F 900 R holds the 9th spot in the best-seller list and is the runner-up in success only to the BMW R 1300 GS. Prices in Germany start at €9,400, while our model, complete with the Comfort Package, Sport Design, and Quickshifter, comes in at around €11,000.

But what makes it so successful? Is it just the BMW name, the price, or is there more to it?

If you're looking for an emotionally charged, exhilarating motorcycle, this isn't it. But if you want a bike that's versatile and functional, you might just find it here. BMW opts for a functional yet understated design. The specs are solid but not groundbreaking. Yet, this might be its strength: a motorcycle that delivers practicality without intimidation, catering to a broad spectrum of riders.

For the 2025 model year, BMW has made some minor yet meaningful enhancements:

• Euro 5+ compliant twin-cylinder inline engine (895 cc, 105 hp)
• New "Dynamic" riding mode (standard, more responsive throttle)
• Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) (lean angle dependent, standard)
• Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR) (prevents rear wheel slip)
• New upside-down fork (43 mm, adjustable) (rebound/compression damping & preload)
• Lighter 17-inch cast wheels (-1.8 kg, improves handling & braking performance)
• ABS Pro (cornering ABS) & Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) (standard)
• Lighter battery (-0.8 kg)
• New rear section with integrated indicators
• Revised ergonomics (sportier seating position, handlebars further forward, footpegs further back)

BMW stays true to its roots: small but meaningful updates ensure continuous evolution without altering the proven foundation.

Once you settle into the F 900 R, the comfortable seating position is immediately noticeable. The F 900 R is a classic naked bike that instantly feels like home. The seating position is sporty yet everyday-friendly, ensuring a relaxed ride whether you're in city traffic or on winding country roads. Although the ergonomics have been revised, a direct comparison with a predecessor model would be necessary to truly assess the changes. Nevertheless, you always feel secure and at ease in the saddle of this classic naked bike.

The 895 cc twin-cylinder inline engine with 105 hp doesn't deliver extreme power, but it provides a smooth, accessible power band. The engine is a smooth operator, notably well-suited for both novice and experienced riders. This is partly due to the three riding modes Rain, Road, and Dynamic which adjust the engine's responsiveness to suit various needs. For those seeking even more direct throttle response, which can lead to sharp load changes, the optional Dynamic Pro mode enhances the ride dynamics.

Our model came with the optional Quickshifter. This system significantly enhances the fun during sporty rides, but can be a bit frustrating at lower revs as it requires considerable effort to achieve smooth gear shifts.

The handling is neutral, and the ergonomics are well-balanced. To accurately assess the differences concerning the new adjustable fork, a direct comparison with the predecessor would be necessary. In any case, the ride quality in 2025 is accessible and sportily direct. A particularly positive aspect is that the BMW now offers more adjustment options, enhancing adaptability. The only critique in terms of sporty cornering is that the rear suspension setup of the BMW F 900 R is more oriented towards comfort and everyday usability. This ensures the bike is excellent for long rides and daily use, but there is room for improvement during sporty rides.

In a world full of high-performance bikes with radical designs and extreme power, BMW takes a different approach with the F 900 R: a motorcycle that simply works reliably and blends in effortlessly. But why do actual buyers go for this naked bike? We asked the 1000PS Instagram Community, and the feedback was unanimous: the F 900 R offers a great value-for-money package and provides everything you need.

The F 900 R is geared towards riders seeking a reliable, versatile motorcycle. It's not a head-turner, but it's a sensible choice for evening rides, commutes, or longer tours. Many motorcyclists don't want an extreme bike; they want one that meets their needs. This motorcycle doesn't scream "buy me!", but it sticks in your mind because it does exactly what it's supposed toat a reasonable price.

Looking back in history, these are precisely the success secrets of true bestsellers. The purchasing decision is made with a clear mind and meets specific needs. Whether it's a Toyota Corolla, classic Levi's jeans, or a BMW F 900 R.

And when something just works well and causes no issues, even this approach has its own appeal.

Austrian buyers who order an F 900 R by June 30, 2025, can take advantage of the launch offer. BMW Austria is offering the naked bike at a promotional price of €9,290 instead of the regular €9,990. More information can be found on the BMW Motorrad Austria Homepage.