BMW G650GS Bike Overview
The G650GS is essentially an updated version of BMW’s G650 and F650GS single. Like its super-popular predecessor, the F650GS, it’s an entry-level adventure bike and one of the most affordable BMW motorcycles ever made.
The single-cylinder motor differs from the F650’s, though. The old bulletproof Austrian-built Rotax unit has been replaced with a Chinese motor from Lonchin. Reliability doesn’t seem to have been affected, despite this cost-cutting measure, but the timing of its arrival — when the far more practical twin-cylinder F800GS was already selling well — has meant that sales were relatively poor and lead to its demise in 2017, just six years after its 2011 launch.
The G650GS a fairly capable middle-weight adventure bike, and feels well balanced on the road, especially round town and in traffic. The single-cylinder motor is a little limiting on longer trips that involve motorway work, though the counter-balanced Chinese engine is smoother than you might expect and delivers incredibly good fuel economy with around 90mpg reported from some owners. Short final gearing is an indication that BMW thought more owners would ride off-road, and can be a pain on faster roads. Changing the sprockets is an easy fix; re-calibrating the speedo possibly less so.
Early models can be had for as little as £3,000, while a good late model will set you back around £5,000.
Look at the BMW G650GS in action…
BMW G650GS Bike Spec
- Top speed105 mph
- Weight192kg
- Engine4 valve, single cylinder, liquid cooled
- Average fuel consumption59 mpg
- Capacity652cc
- Seat height780mm
BMW G650GS Bike Insurance
BMW G650GS Bike Gallery
Owner Reviews
Pros
Suitability for my needs, good all rounder
Cons
Head light
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Comfy, short or long journeys, no passenger carried as yet
Good build quality no issues as yet
As expected, good quality non abs brakes
650 single engine, torquey, medium weight, corners and handles as u would expect an adventure style bike to
Does what I need it to do
Good mpg, parts reasonably priced
Pros
It's a nice bike to ride if you are not going on the motorways. The engine is very smooth, but in my view is not providing enough power. Very good bike for beginners.
Cons
Engine power.
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Very smooth
Engine does not feel powerful. Comparing with other 650cc I've ridden is one of the slowest ones
Engine power.
Haven't done many miles, but for the moment no issues.
Brakes are OK. FR suspension is a bit soft therefor feels a bit strange.