When I think of middleweight naked bikes, BMW’s F 900 R is the last model that comes to mind. I could say the same for its relative, the F 900 XR, in the crossover tourer category. The two F-series twins often feel like afterthoughts in those respective conversations, but BMW hopes to flip that narrative with the 2025 F 900 R and F 900 XR.
Here and there
Like many 2025 models, the F 900s now comply with Euro 5+ emissions regulations. That’s far from the only upgrade, though. BMW’s 895 cc parallel twin now produces a claimed 105 horsepower (at 8,500 rpm), whereas the first-gen R and XR were listed at 99 horsepower (at 8,500 rpm). That power increase is due to software tuning, as the engine’s volume, bore, stroke, and compression ratio remain the same. What also goes unchanged is peak torque, which amounts to 68 foot-pounds at 6,750 rpm.
Both 900s feature a newly tuned Dynamic ride mode fitted as standard. They also gain Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control. New tech goes beyond the Loncin-made p-twin. BMW Motorrad ABS Pro offers lean-dependent ABS application while Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) cuts unintended acceleration during emergency braking (see video below).
BMW also paid attention to the F 900 R and F 900 XR’s chassis. Both models already came equipped with a 43 mm USD fork, but now they offer preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustability. The R and XR also nab the five-spoke, 17-inch cast aluminum wheels from the S 1000 R. The German marque says the borrowed wheelset saves 3.96 pounds and contributes to an 6.6-pound weight saving overall.
Special treatment
The F 900 R and XR don’t go without model-specific updates, either. The XR comes standard with Headlight Pro, which includes a daylight running light and adaptive headlight function. A new USB-C charging port, redesigned wind deflectors, hand protectors, and heated grips only speak to the XR’s touring chops.
BMW takes more moderate steps with the F 900 R. The new ergonomic triangle positions the rider closer to the front wheel thanks to slight adjustments to the handlebars, footrests, and foot levers. Other than the new riding position, the roadster also gets paint-matched headlight side trim.
Are BMW's updates enough to move the F 900s to the forefront of the conversation? We'll find out shortly, as both models are scheduled to arrive in dealerships in early 2025. When that happens, the 2025 F 900 R will retail for $8,995 while the F 900 XR will start at $11,995.
2025 BMW F 900 R | 2025 BMW F 900 XR | |
---|---|---|
Price (MSRP) | $8,995 | $11,995 |
Engine | 895 cc, liquid-cooled, eight-valve, parallel twin | |
Transmission, final drive |
Six-speed, chain | |
Claimed horsepower | 105 @ 8,500 rpm | |
Claimed torque | 68 foot-pounds @ 6,750 rpm | |
Frame | Bridge-type frame, steel shell construction | |
Front suspension | 43 mm inverted fork, adjustable for spring preload, compression, and rebound damping; 5.3 inches of travel | 43 mm inverted fork, adjustable for spring preload, compression, and rebound damping; 6.7 inches of travel |
Rear suspension | Monoshock, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping; 5.6 inches of travel | Monoshock, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping; 6.8 inches of travel |
Front brake | Dual four-piston calipers, 320 mm discs with ABS | |
Rear brake | Single-piston caliper, 265 mm disc with ABS | |
Rake, trail | 26.0 degrees, 4.5 inches | 26.0 degrees, 4.1 inches |
Wheelbase | 59.6 inches | 59.9 inches |
Seat height | 32.0 inches | 32.2 inches |
Fuel capacity | 3.4 gallons | 4.1 gallons |
Tires | 120/70ZR17 front, 180/55ZR17 rear | |
Claimed weight | 438.7 pounds (dry) | 454 pounds (dry) |
Available | Early 2025 | |
Warranty | 36 months/36,000 miles | |
More info | bmw-motorcycles.com | bmw-motorcycles.com |