In Europe, the BMW F 900 XR is classified as a road trail bike.
A name that suggests a certain thirst for adventure. But in reality, this bike is more of a sporty road bike. I can confirm that it is indeed a road bike designed for urban use. However, it is agile and well built.
Its versatility and easy handling are its greatest qualities.
Mounted on superb 17-inch alloy wheels, it shines with its balance and efficiency. Its fairing is unadorned but effective, both in terms of its look and its protection against the elements.
Agile yet stable, thanks to its steering stabilizer, it naturally falls into the category of mid-range sport touring bikes.
It is an accessible motorcycle that is fun to ride and perfect for weekend getaways and even some longer trips.
An authentic BMW at heart
With its exemplary finish, quality materials, and well-thought-out ergonomics, the F 900 XR proudly displays the BMW logo.
The model I tested was equipped with the Comfort package, which includes keyless system, cruise control, heated grips, and hand guards—small luxuries that enhance everyday comfort but are also greatly appreciated on long rides. It can do all this despite its fuel tank, which could be larger to offer more range.
Underneath the tank is a 105-horsepower parallel twin engine designed in Germany but manufactured in China. It’s the same engine that powers the F 900 GS and F 900 R. The riding mode options on the test model were Rain, Road, and Dynamic.
In Rain mode, the response is smooth and reassuring. It is well suited for riding on wet surfaces.
In Road mode, the power is well balanced, perfect for urban riding.
In Dynamic mode, the engine is more responsive, enough to have fun… but not enough to rival a more aggressive Yamaha MT-09.
Versatility above all
It’s on the road that the F 900 XR reveals its true nature.
It’s a maneuverable, easy-going bike. With a seat height of 820 mm, frequent starts and stops are easy. The bike is compact, which is a definite plus in urban situations. When I took it for a test ride, I had no trouble executing tight maneuvers. So much so that I had fun pushing the limits to see how well I could handle the bike. Being used to large, tall bikes with 21-inch wheels, the F 900 XR felt like a small toy to me because it is so intuitive to use.
It excels in the city, which is where I enjoyed the F 900 XR the most. It also performs very well on winding roads.
Even in Dynamic mode, its engine remains easy to handle. Although the F 900 XR is listed under the “sport” tab on the BMW website, it is not the most exciting bike in its class. You can have fun with it, but don’t expect too much in terms of sportiness. However, its maneuverability will greatly help less experienced riders gain confidence.
On the other hand, the F 900 XR is easy to ride and invites you to take it out for a spin. The model I tested was equipped with luggage racks. This means that with luggage, the F 900 XR can easily take you around the country without overtaxing you, thanks to its versatile rather than sporty temperament.
In short, it’s the ideal companion for those who want a practical, versatile motorcycle that’s enjoyable to ride every day.
In terms of comfort, however, it’s more of a mixed bag.
The riding position is fine, but the shape of the seat limits movement and feels a bit cramped.
It’s nothing dramatic, but after a few hours, you start to want to stretch your legs a little.
The suspension is effective and manually adjustable. There are also two modes that can be selected via an electronic button: Road and Dynamic.
The first mode softens long journeys, while the second firms up the whole for a more sporty ride. This motorcycle, with its 17-inch front wheel, lets you feel the condition of the road you are riding on.
Technology and handling
The transmission is well spaced, the gears shift smoothly, and the clutch is easy to modulate during tight maneuvers.
The BMW Quick Shift, featured on the test model, is effective… when it wants to be.
Rather abrupt and temperamental, it works best when you follow the instructions on the dashboard, which displays a small arrow to indicate the right moment to change gears.
The overall ergonomics are typical of BMW, with familiar controls found on most of the brand’s models.
It’s effective, of course, but you can tell that the design of the switchgear is starting to show its age.
We would like BMW to dare to modernize this aspect, especially on a model so well positioned in its range. But overall, it remains effective and easy for those familiar with the brand.
In terms of protection, the manually adjustable windshield does its job without excelling: it deflects some of the wind without generating any noticeable turbulence.
F 900 XR compared to the competition
To better position the BMW F 900 XR, I compared it to the Yamaha MT-09, which I think is the champion in this category.
Compared to the MT-09, the F 900 XR is more relaxed. Less instant power, less rage in the revs. However, it offers more control and comfort for those who don’t want to tear up every corner. The MT-09 is a beast on the road, in corners, and in terms of thrust, but it’s more demanding and less forgiving on slippery surfaces, or when you want to ride for long periods with a passenger or luggage. In short, the somewhat timid sportiness of the BMW F 900 XR is surpassed by the Yamaha. However, the BMW F 900 XR makes up for this with its accessibility and ease of teaming up with the rider to enjoy the road.
Reason before passion
The F 900 XR is an excellent, versatile, balanced, and well-built motorcycle that is perfect for those who want a comfortable, dynamic, and predictable machine.
It is a reasonable, appealing motorcycle that is very “BMW” in its philosophy: serious, well-made, but a little too sensible for those looking for performance or power.
As such, the F 900 XR can easily fulfil the role of a first motorcycle. Suitable for various situations, it will be reassuring and help you gain confidence, while also having a playful side.
And as for its European definition of ”road trail,” I had to test it to the limit to give you the best review. I can tell you that gravel is far from its favourite playground…
We liked:
- Easy to handle.
- Maneuverable.
- Responsive handling.
- Adequate equipment.
We didn’t like as much:
- A little lacking in power.
- Seat could be a little more comfortable.
- Look a little too plain.
Price of the model tested: $17,500
We would like to thank BMW-Motorrad Canada for making this test possible.
