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Common Tread

2025 BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR first look: Improved enough?

Nov 26, 2024

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. 

Three F 900 Rs in Snapper Rocks Blue metallic, Blackstorm metallic, and Lightwhite with Racingblue metallic.
The base 2025 F 900 R will come in Snapper Rocks Blue metallic, while the Triple Black version is available in Blackstorm metallic paint. The Sport version sports a Lightwhite with Racingblue metallic livery. BMW photo.

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. 

The BMW F 900 R's new 17-inch front wheel in bright red paint.
In addition to the lighter wheels, the F 900s now have a lighter battery. BMW also integrated the brake and tail light functions into the rear turn indicators. BMW photo.

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.

The 2025 F 900 XR in in Racing Red, Blackstorm metallic, and Lightwhite with Racingblue metallic.
In standard form, the BMW F 900 XR wears Racing Red paint. The Triple Black trim comes in Blackstorm metallic while the Sport paint scheme consists of Lightwhite with Racingblue metallic. BMW photo.

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.

Four images of the F 900 R and F 900 XR's accessories, including bar-end mirrors, an Akrapovič silencer, soft side cases, and a belly pan.
F 900 accessories include an Akrapovič silencer, axle protectors, luggage, and milled footrests and foot levers. BMW photos.

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

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