Heels & Horsepower Magazine

New on the Tarmac: Meet the BMW F 900 R & F 900 XR

BMW South Africa has recently launched the dynamic new Roadster F 900 R and the F 900 XR in the Adventure Sport segment.  In so doing, BMW Motorrad is further expanding its product range for the popular mid-range.

Both models offer sporty riding pleasure, straightforward handling and a unique range of equipment options, packaged to offer attractive value for money. Based on a powerful shared backbone, the two models differ significantly in terms of character and positioning.

The new F 900 R – the Dynamic Roadster for purist riding pleasure

Suitable for everyday riding, the new BMW F900 R is a dynamic roadster fashioned for self-confident, sporty and active bikers.   Aimed at experienced riders and newcomers alike, the new F 900 R’s aggressive design, sound, engine output and torque conveys an irresistible sense of freedom.

The new F 900 XR – a genuine “XR” for the mid-range

The F 900 XR boasts sporty riding dynamics combined with upright, GS-like ergonomics, outstanding long-distance and passenger suitability and a design that conveys a powerful sense of character.

The new F 900 XR also benefits from the technology transfer from the upper class: Adaptive Cornering Light and Keyless Ride are unique features in the mid-range.

In addition to sporty riders, the XR is also aimed at newcomers thanks to its low minimum seat height and attractive entry price.

Pic Courtesy of BMW SA

Technology benchmark in the segment

The two new models – the F 900 R and F 900 XR  – currently set the technological benchmark in the mid-range segment with their high-quality standard equipment (Connectivity, LED all round as standard) and their wide range of optional extras – in some cases unique in this class (including Adaptive Cornering Light, Keyless Ride, Dynamic ESA, Riding Modes Pro, Shift Assistant Pro, ABS Pro, engine drag torque control (MSR), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), and RDC.

Adaptive Cornering Light as a component of Headlight Pro, is unique in the mid-range and comes as an optional extra ex works

 

2-cylinder in-line engine along with new engine drag torque control

In the new F 900 R and F 900 XR, enhanced riding dynamics are ensured by the further development of the 2-cylinder in-line engine first introduced in 2018 in the F 850 GS.  While offering a particularly emotional sound, the engine produces 77 kW of power and 92 Nm of torque.

In addition to the standard anti-hopping clutch, the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be fitted with engine drag torque control (MSR) for the first time. MSR prevents the rear wheel from slipping as a result of abrupt throttling or downshifting, thereby ensuring even greater safety.

Pic Courtesy of BMW SA

Two standard riding modes

The new F 900 R and F 900 XR already offer the “Rain” and “Road” riding modes as standard. The standard trim also includes ABS and ASC Automatic Stability Control, which  can be disengaged.

With “Riding Modes Pro” as an ex works option, the sporty characteristics of the new F 900 R and F 900 XR can be experienced even more intensively. The additional riding modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro”, Dynamic Traction Control DTC and banking capable ABS Pro are available, along with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and the new engine drag torque control (MSR).

Even greater safety is offered by the Adaptive Cornering Light as a component of Headlight Pro, which is unique in the mid-range and comes as an optional extra ex works. Here, the rider benefits from improved illumination of the road when cornering for even safer riding at night. All lighting units in the new F models are based on LED technology as standard.

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Readable colour 6.5-inch TFT screen with BMW Motorrad Connectivity 

The BMW Motorrad developers attached great importance to optimum readability for the instrument cluster – even in difficult lighting conditions. In addition, information diversity, display quality and user-friendliness are unmatched. The graphics on the screen are visually adapted to the sporty on-road world. Additional Core screens are available in conjunction with the optional Pro riding modes. The standard BMW Motorrad Connectivity is a unique feature in the mid-range, offering the ability to conveniently talk on the phone, listen to music or navigate while riding.

Cleverly designed ergonomic triangles for dynamic riding pleasure 

As a dynamic roadster, the F 900 R offers a particularly sporty, active seating position.

Meanwhile the F 900 XR offers an impressively active yet relaxed riding position for touring and travelling. The front fairing –  including an adjustable windshield – combines a sporty look with sound rider protection.

Various low and high seats along with the optional lowering feature also allow individual adjustment to various body heights.

Three powerful colour and style variants for an unmistakable sense of character

Three dynamic colour and style variants for the new F 900 R and F 900 XR ensure unmistakable characteristics.

The new F 900 R is available in Blackstorm metallic, San Marino Blue metallic and Style Sport in Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red.

In addition to Light White, the new F 900 XR offers the two Style variants Style Exclusive in Galvanic Gold metallic and Sport in Racing Red.

Prices:

F 900 R        From   R164 700-00

F 900 XR     From    R169 100-00

New Motorbikes On The Tarmac

  1. Suzuki Katana

Well known connoisseur motorcycle manufacturer Suzuki recently unveiled its most beguiling beauty in the form of the new Suzuki Katana.  Paying homage to the GSX1100S Katana of the eighties, the new contemporary motorcycle from Suzuki effortlessly highlights sculptured lines and precisely contoured panels in its bold and intricate structure.  Vertically stacked LED headlight and front position lights accent the sharp lines of the Katana’s distinctive face; and its tail light features a striking lighting pattern.  Sleek, lean and athletic, the new Suzuki Katana promises its ride the thrill of a lifetime thanks to its 1000cc engine.  The new Katana also relies on its 6-speed transmission, back-torque-limiting clutch, Suzuki’s three-model traction control system and new tyres with tubeless structure which have been designed specifically for the Katana. Weighing 215kg and standing at 1,110mm high, the Katana measure 835mm wide and is 2,130mm in length.  The new Suzuki Katana is available in Metallic Mystic Silver and Glass Sparkle Black.

Priced from: R187 500-00

Triumph Rocket 3 R

Triumph has released the all-new Rocket 3 R which reportedly delivers incredible control, comfort, capability and instantaneous world-leading torque. The muscular new Rocket 3 R features distinctive twin full LED headlights including the distinctive Triumph triangle branding.  The sculptured 3-header exhaust is a hallmark style focal point of the new Rocket 3 range while the 20-spoke wheels enhance the Rocket 3’s dramatic look.  Its stylish handlebars, give the rider of this impressive beast a command riding position.  The Rocket 3’s 2,500cc triple is the world’s largest production motorcycle engine, delivering 123kW of power and 221Nm of peak torque paired to a 6-speed gearbox. For rider ease, the all-new Rocket 3 features a TFT multi-functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge,  service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes (rain, road, sport and rider-configurable). The Triumph Rocket 3 has an 18litre petrol tank and is available in Phantom Black and Korossi Red.

Priced from: R299 000-00

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin

The 2020 CRF1100L Africa Twin derivatives from Honda are set to up the ante within the adventure motorcycle arena.  With more power, the new models are more technologically advanced, lighter in weight and equipped with more driver aids than ever before.  There are two Africa Twin motorbikes available being – the standard Africa Twin and the Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES.  Both motorcycles are driven by a 1,084cc engine, firing 75kW and 105Nm, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic dual-clutch transmission. The standard Africa Twin is designed for improved sporting and off-road performance, while the Adventure Sports ES – tailored for comfortable long distance quests – is fitted with heated grips and Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment suspension (EERA).  Both 2020 Africa Twin bikes feature a 6.5-inch TFT (thin-film transistor) colour touchscreen display, which is Apple CarPlay compatible.  New rider aids include wheelie control, cornering ABS, rear-lift control, DCT cornering detection, cornering lights and cruise control as standard. The Honda CRF100L Africa Twin and Adventure Sports ES are available in Rally Red Metallic or Black Matt.

Priced from R210 000-00

BMW S 1000 RR

One glance at the S 1000 RR confirms that is an indomitably spirited high-performance machine. 

The new S 1000 RR features front indicators which have been repositioned from the fairing to the rear view mirrors, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing look as well as improved  visibility. To the rear, the S 1000 RR shows off number plate lighting and the inclusion of LED turn signals in the number plate holder, a design which fuses sex appeal with everyday practicality.  

At the heart of the much anticipated German thorough-breed, is the newly engineered four-cylinder enginespitting a heart-thumping 152kW and 113Nm.  Reaching a top speed of 299km/hr, street superbike is fitted with BMW Motorrad Race ABS (part integral) and has ABS fittings for Rain, Road and Dynamic mode (Note – no ABS in Race mode).  Other standard features include Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Start Control, Shift Assist Pro, TFT display and LED headlight and rear light.   The BMW S 1000 RR is available in Hockenheim silver metallic, Racing red non-metallic and Light white/Racing blue metallic/Racing red.

Priced from R311 400-00