1999 BMW F 650 GS review from Canada
"When I look at other bikes, I can't find a reason to change machines"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
I replaced the chain at 25,000 km.
The battery has been replaced twice (once because fluid leaked out when the bike tipped over and I didn't re-fill it).
I have installed a brighter headlight and extra driving lights for night driving (country highways).
The exhaust is hot, and I have melted the bottom of the air-box as a result of poor choke use (my fault). To prevent that happening in the future, I have used insulating wrap on the exhaust, and I have used insulating 'tape' on the bottom of the air-box.
General comments?
This motorcycle has been used by me for day-to-day commutes to work, as well as a number of multi-day trips in the mountains of BC, Montana, Idaho and the Pacific Northwest. It handles the highways with me and my gear just fine. On mountain passes (like Lolo Pass) it is a blast to ride.
As an added bonus, when it falls over, it is light enough to pick up easily.
Of all of the motorcycles I have owned, this one is my favourite - by far.
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Acceleration marks | 7/10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Handling marks | 8/10 |
| Braking marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 295 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 26899 kilometres |
| Previous motorcycle | Yamaha XV1100 Virago |
| Date of Entry | 19th September, 2007 |