R1200s

There is no doubt about it, BMW is on a roll. Even from the bottom and subsequently revised the best-selling R1200 GS was released in early 2004, the Central Bavarian innovation has been pumping great new models one after another - and in succession too fast.

R1200 RT, the R1200 R, the new K series rockets, and now this - a parallel twin of all things - the F800, which was launched in the latter part of last year S & T forms. Produce a brand new machine with a new powertrain, is to think outside the box to say the least, but with the F800S is a truism that once you've turned off down the street BMW has certainly done his homework.

As a journalist bike that had a chance to sample a large number of machines each year, it is easy to fall into the trap of jaded yet another "latest and greatest, but I found the F800 to T one of those cases - one where you start to look rather critically on the bank balance and you think, I really would not mind owning one of these ...'. Obviously, your choice of bike is a very personal thing, but I did not like riding the F800 ST, I loved. Why? Well, let me tell you - but first, look at what distinguishes the F800 ST S.

Basically, the ST is a Sports Tourer and S is the sportier version of the same bike. The S has clip-ons, the ST does not work. The ST also has a slightly larger screen, a little different position care of his journey "bars, alloy wheels, different, more bodywork, and it weighs 5 kg more - and nothing else. They both share the same alloy frame - where the engine is used as a stressed member - the engine itself.

Now, back to the F800 ST, and why it got my bank account changes his weight nervously from one foot to another, and looking a little nervous. In a word, is simply a delight to drive. It is light, agile and relatively agile. It is comfortable, with a riding position, you can live with all day. It's fun, with a punchy engine, lots of zing and brakes superb. And it is - in my opinion - beautiful, with a finish characteristic of BMW luxury from top to bottom.

The new parallel twin engine is a winner. At first, you need to take care not to stall at low revs - it must have a steering wheel light enough - but once you have your head around what it is nice to go "whoa." He has a raspy, vibey feel to it, but it is not awkward or not refined, it just gives a certain character, while the size of the engine itself offers lots of usable torque around the city. There is still enough to continue to operate but for some fun in the sport seriously, and it will happily rev out to its 8500rpm Redline in most of its six gears - if you're in the upper lever of this box, you will to see some pretty fast speeds too.

In fact, this box is one of the few things that impress you immediately. Though effective, lightweight and responsive while you're out in traffic from a standing start is a bit awkward, especially when you engage it first - which is something a character BMW. The clutch can be awkward too - not just rhythm that speeds you can hear the engage and disengage or you pull the lever out. None of these points affect your driving pleasure, but these are things you will notice anyway.

The suspension, for what I look for in a motorcycle, was incredible. It is actually quite basic, being non-adjustable front, but preload and rebound adjustment on the back (both via easy to use wheels), and together, this package offers conduct itself in wonder yet responsive. Straighten things a little backwards if a charge is good sprint on the agenda, and take delight in how well it absorbs shock and holds a line through a corner.

With four-piston calipers, dual disc setup on the front, you will find the brakes are well up to the decision of the F800, and there is certainly not.