Introducing the new range of single-cylinder models, BMW
Motorrad is broadening its model line-up with a clear focus on
additional target groups. Proceeding from the same technical
foundation, the Company has created three new motorcycles
absolutely different in their features and characteristics: the G
650 Xchallenge Hard Enduro, G 650 Xmoto Street Moto, and the G 650
Xcountry Scrambler.
With their outstanding product substance, their purist looks,
and their exceptionally sporting riding characteristics, these
single-cylinder models are filling attractive niches in the market.
And through their low unladen weight of less than 160 kg or 353 lb
according to the DIN standard, they offer dynamic performance for
both the connoisseur and the sports-minded rider.
Market launch of the new G 650 X model series is planned in good
time for the beginning of the season in spring 2007.
These new machines with the smallest engines in the BMW model
range offer particularly the young and young-at-heart motorcycle
rider exactly the right entry into the world of BMW motorcycles,
but are not entry-level bikes in the conventional sense of the
word: On the contrary, the G 650 Xchallenge Hard Enduro will thrill
the customer who wishes to really benefit from the enormous offroad
potential of his machine. The G 650 Xmoto Street Moto, in turn,
with its very impressive active riding qualities, offers the
genuine enthusiast a new dimension in riding pleasure.
The G 650 Xcountry Scrambler, finally, stands for carefree
riding pleasure and nimble performance both on the road and off the
beaten track. Indeed, this unique machine is able to meet all kinds
of requirements and offer virtually all riding qualities ranging
from city use via country roads and small, winding lanes, all the
way to offroad tracks presenting the most challenging
requirements.
The G 650 Xcountry therefore conveys the classic but relaxed
feeling of riding a genuine Scrambler as well as the concept of
"wandering" on your motorcycle into today's world in a most modern
style. And last but certainly not least, riding pleasure is
guaranteed under all conditions and in every situation, since the G
650 Xcountry offers the same outstanding engine and running gear
qualities as its two very sporting "sister models".
All three of these new models are powered by the single-cylinder
carried over from the former F 650 models now optimised for even
better performance and minimum weight: In the G 650 X-models, the
upgraded engine now develops maximum output of 39 kW (53 hp) at
7,000 rpm, reaching maximum torque of 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) at 5,250
rpm. And it almost goes without saying that the engine's well-known
virtues such as superior liability, motoring refinement, economy,
and environmental friendliness have been enhanced to an even higher
standard than ever before.
Yet a further improvement is the even more dynamic surge of
power from the four-valve engine now made possible by the lighter
crankdrive and a number of other modifications. The rear wheel,
finally, is driven on all three model variants by an O-ring
chain.
The bridge-type tubular frame made of steel with cast aluminium
side sections and the bolted-on aluminium rear frame, together with
the rear-wheel swing arm made of cast light alloy and a number of
other high-quality components, characterise the suspension and
running gear concept of the entire G 650 X model series - all
components are the same on all three models.
Intelligent lightweight technology with a high degree of overall
integration of the various components allows particularly low
weight for a motorcycle in this class between 156 and 160 kg (344
and 353 lb), depending on the model (DIN unladen weight with 90 per
cent tank filling). Dry weight, in turn, is between 144 and 148 kg
or 318 and 326 lb.
Various set-ups and versions of the upside-down telescopic fork
as well as the rear suspension elements give each model its own
special character and riding features. The Xchallenge, for example,
comes with a particularly elaborate air damping system, while the
Xcountry features a spring strut adjustable for length. The wheels
and their dimensions, in turn, are tailored to each specific
purpose, the Street Moto featuring 17-inch cast light-alloy rims,
the Scrambler running on 19- and, respectively, 17-inch spoke
wheels, and the Hard Enduro featuring 21- and, respectively,
18-inch spoke wheels highlighting the specific character of each
machine.
The brake systems also differ from one model to another: The
single-disc front-wheel brakes on the Xcountry and the Xchallenge
each measure 300 millimetres or 11.81" in diameter and come in each
case with a double-piston brake calliper, while the Xmoto features
a four-piston brake calliper interacting with a brake disc
measuring 320 millimetres or 12.60" in diameter.
A feature truly unique in the segment of highly specialised
single-cylinder motorcycles - but nevertheless quite natural on a
BMW - is the optional availability of light and compact two-channel
ABS for even greater braking
performance. And it also goes without saying that the ABS anti-lock
brake system does not in any way restrict the ambitious sports
rider wishing to enjoy himself off the beaten track or on special
circuits reserved for racing, since the system may be deactivated
on demand. And naturally, the offroad rider enjoying the Xchallenge
benefits from the same freedom whenever he - or she - wishes.
Again reflecting the usual standard of BMW Motorrad, the G 650 X
models may also be customised by a wide range of accessories and
special features tailored to each model.
Indeed, the new models are not only the successors to the former
single-cylinder machines, but rather round off the range as a
whole, since both the F 650 GS and the F 650 GS Dakar are to remain
in the model line-up in 2007, with production continuing at BMW
Motorrad's Berlin Plant.