BMW takes F 900 up a notch
The F 900 R and XR are the mid-range models at BMW. In that playing field, competition is fierce. Quite a few brands operate in the 900cc division, where the Yamaha MT-09 and the Kawasaki Z900 are star performers. The latter mentioned invariably mixes in the top 3 in motorcycle sales. So to score, BMW has to stay sharp on the ball. That is now happening with a solid update for the F 900 duo.
BMW F 900 R and F 900 XR: the differences
The F 900 R is a roadster. So a bare bike without a windshield. For the 2025 model year, the R offers a somewhat sportier seating position. The F 900 XR is what BMW refers to as a crossover. Actually, the XR is the more travel-oriented version with a decent windshield and now with handguards in standard equipment. Several side case sets are available from compact to larger ones that can fit a helmet.
What’s different?
Both models of the F 900 are made for nice steering on twisty roads. With 77 kW (105 hp), the 895 cc upright twin delivers enough power to impress on the highway as well. The Dynamic driving mode is also now tuned a tad more aggressively than before. Dynamic Traction Control DTC is standard and so is the engine brake control MSR. This prevents the rear wheel from slipping or bouncing during abrupt throttle withdrawal or downshifting.
3 kg slimmed down
BMW reports a downsizing that leads to 3 kg less weight. The optional sport muffler (in cooperation with Akrapovič) brings the weight down by another 1.2 kg or so. New is the upside-down front fork with thick 43 mm suspension legs. Compression and rebound damping and spring preload are now adjustable.
Brake Assist
New to the standard equipment of the F models is the BMW Motorrad ABS Pro. ABS then operates inclination-dependent, reducing the chance of under braking in corners. Also standard is Dynamic Brake Control (DBC). This system provides even more safety when braking, even in difficult situations, by preventing unintended throttle actuation.
Adaptive cornering light
The BMW F 900 XR gets standard headlights with daytime running lights, adaptive cornering lights and heated grips. It also now has hand guards as standard. With the fairing, the wind deflectors are of a different design to better direct the riding wind around you. According to BMW, that results in less vortex around your helmet.
More front wheel oriented
The F 900 R is the fighter of the two. To add to that character, footpegs are placed a little higher and the handlebars are a little closer. The seating position is more front-wheel oriented, according to BMW. One of those seating positions that you would expect to find on a so-called motard and thus ideal if you want to take smoothly following short turns. According to BMW, the R is a bit more sporty to steer.
Colors?
Also new for 2025 are the color schemes. The BMW F 900 R comes as a base variant in Snapper Rocks Blue metallic. Furthermore, you can choose variant Triple Black in Blackstorm metallic on the Sport variant in Lightwhite uni / Racingblue metallic. On the XR, you can choose from the basic variant in Racing Red uni, the variant Triple Black in Blackstorm metallic and the Sport variant in Lightwhite uni / Racingblue metallic.
