Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1523994
P100 RIDE REVIEW I 2024 BMW F 900 GS Luckily, the F 900 GS's riding position is very relaxed and comfortable, and despite the somewhat tall seat height (34 inches), I could flat-foot the bike at a stop. BMW, however, offers an optional two-inch lower cushion, so seat height shouldn't be too much of a factor for most riders. The 900's 21-inch front wheel might reduce front-end feedback, but it doesn't prevent con - fidence when riding hard on the pavement. The cockpit is well-designed, highlighted by the easy-to-decipher 6.5-inch TFT display showing all necessary information. Smart - phone connectivity is available, and navigat- ing the interface with BMW's traditional multi- controller wheel on the left grip is simple. On the pavement, the F 900 GS offers a plush ride; I felt no need to make any adjustments right away for my 170 pounds. Brakes are sufficient enough, though the initial bite could be better. Fuel range could be better, as well. The F 900 GS holds 3.8 gallons, which is 0.2 gallons less than before. I rode the BMW back home to Southern California and had planned an off-the-beaten-path "shortcut" that really isn't shorter; in fact, it's longer but way more scenic with no traffic. After topping off with fuel, I got about 10 miles into my shortcut, and after calculating in my head how far I had to go (approximately 135 miles from the beginning) to the next gas station, considering the bike's fuel quantity and comparing that to what the bike's range computer was telling me, I suddenly wasn't confident I was going to make it. The BMW's fuel calculator initially said I could (but I don't trust those things anyway). However, 10 miles in, it changed its mind and said I would be cutting it close, so I played it safe and turned around, some - thing I would not have had to do on most other ADV motorcycles that hold more fuel. The off-road portion of our ride was short and not very challenging. It was a rocky, maintained road that offered little variation— just a lot of rocks—loose rocks and rocks that weren't going anywhere. The out-and- Despite BMW's focus on off-road capabilities with the F 900 GS, it still performs excellently on pavement.