BMW F 900 R Review 2025

BMW F 900 R Review 2025

Why is the F 900 R So Popular?

The BMW F 900 R ranks among the best-selling naked bikes on the market. But why is that? It’s not a design sensation, nor a power beast, yet thousands choose this motorcycle. Is practicality still the real secret to success in the 2025 model year?

Der Horvath

Der Horvath

published on 01/04/2025

10,611 Views

Sales Figures Highlight the Success of the F 900 R

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?

First Impressions of the F 900 R: No Thrills, Just Solid Engineering

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.

The aggressive front design of the new S 1000 R is not followed. The F 900 R blends unobtrusively into traffic.

BMW F 900 R 2025 - Key Facts

Engine and Drive Train

Bore86 mm
Stroke77 mm
Engine power105 HP
Rpm at Max. Power8500 rpm
Torque93 Nm
Rpm at Torque6750 rpm
Compression Ratio13.1
Throttle Bore48 mm
StarterElectric
Clutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
Transmission TypeGearshift
ValvesDOHC
Can be restricted for A2 licenceYes
Displacement895 ccm

Suspension Front

Diameter43 mm
Travel135 mm
AdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

Shock absorberMonoshock
Travel142 mm
AdjustmentPreload, Rebound

Chassis

Frame typeTwin Tube, Load-bearing engine
Rake64 degree
Trail114 mm

Brakes Front

Diameter320 mm
Technologyradial

Brakes Rear

Diameter265 mm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Anti-slipping control, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Engine drag torque control, Ride by Wire, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre width120 mm
Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameter17 inch
Length2140 mm
Width870 mm
Wheelbase1514 mm
Seat Height760 mm
Seat Height up to835 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)208 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity13 l
License compliancyA
Range309 km
Combined CO2 emissions99 g/km
Combined fuel consumption4.2 l/100km
Stationary noise92 dB

Equipment

EquipmentLED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, TFT display

BMW F 900 R Updates for 2025 - Evolution Over Revolution

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.

Riding Impressions of the F 900 R - No Wow Factor, But No Weaknesses

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.

Ergonomically, the F 900 R is a textbook example of a 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.

Even in Dynamic mode, the BMW places a high emphasis on comfort.

Why Does Practicality Sell So Well?

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 to—at a reasonable price.

The sport design with red rims provides an extroverted look if desired.

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.

BMW Austria Launch Offer: Save on the Purchase of an F 900 R

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.

How much does a BMW F 900 R cost?
Here you will find an overview of the price level of new and used motorbikes!
Der Horvath

BMW F 900 R 2025 - Experiences and Expert Review

Der Horvath

The BMW F 900 R remains the epitome of two-wheeled sensibility in 2025. It doesn't captivate with radical looks or a brute of an engine, but that's precisely its strength. If you're looking for a reliable, versatile, and practical naked bike with solid engineering, modern safety features, and a fair price-performance ratio, this is the right choice. The model updates bring sensible improvements without overloading the proven concept.


Value for money

Riding modes including Dynamic mode as standard

New adjustable fork

ABS Pro and DTC as standard

Revised ergonomics: sporty yet comfortable

Pleasant handling, approachable ride dynamics

Good build quality, solid engineering

Design remains rather understated, not very emotional

Quickshifter is clunky at low RPMs

Rear suspension setup is more tuned for comfort than sport

More from 1000PS Magazine

BMW F 900 R Review 2025 Images

Source: 1000PS

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