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BHPian sf-24 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
First Service Update:
I've quickly clocked 1000km, and here's my experience so far.
Things I Like -
Looks and Ergonomics
While looks are subjective, I absolutely love the design. The handlebar, footrest, and seat setup is spot on, and the slimmer profile gives it a much-desired enduro look. The fully-adjustable 43mm Showa fork is a blessing, though I haven't tested it off-road or in detail yet.
Weight
It no longer feels as top-heavy as its predecessor. The 10kg weight reduction is noticeable, and once you get the hang of riding it, it feels incredibly nimble and easy to manoeuver, greatly enhancing the riding and handling experience.
Akrapovic Muffler
The sound, especially in the higher RPM range, is superb (particularly in Dynamic mode) due to the lighter and more attractive Akrapovic muffler. This certainly adds a high-performance feel to the overall ride. Kudos to BMW for including this as standard.
Quick Shifter
I haven't used quick shifters much on other motorcycles, but the one on the F900 GS feels super refined and responsive. It's very intuitive and fun to use.
Metzeler Karoo 4 Tires
Though they're 50/50 tires, their on-road performance far exceeds my expectations. These tires have a speed limit restriction of 160km/h, which is well beyond what I would attempt even on an empty freeway, so no complaints there. They look gorgeous!
Connectivity
If you use a helmet comms unit, you can take calls and manage music via the multi-controller/rocker buttons with the display on the TFT screen. They are super useful.
Below are some items that were not too clear from the BMW Motorrad website and their brochure
What you get in the India-Based GS Trophy Variant - Most of the items from Enduro Pro Package, Dynamic package are included by default; they include
Things that are missing from the Enduro Pro Package listed globally
Upgrades/Accessories Planned
I didn’t get the standard engine guard as I preferred the one offered by Givi, which offers better protection to the tank in addition to the engine. I have budgeted for it and will be placing an order soon.
I also liked the pannier rails and soft luggage options from Givi. They are expensive, so I will need to budget for them soon.
The F900 GS makes a solid case for a one-bike garage. It’s no longer just a baby GS alternative to the 1300; it has its own character. In terms of looks, I prefer it over the 1300, but that’s subjective and no offense to 1300 fans.
First Service or Running-in Check as BMW call it
According to the manual, the first service involves checking the following:
I went over every item on the list with the service advisor. He wondered what I was up to, but the good news is they also had this checklist for all first service schedules. The first service is fully chargeable—no freebies with a BMW. It cost me ₹9.5k.
What Could Be Better Based on My Experience So Far
The Range: With the 14.5 L tank, it was known that the range would be within 250-300 km. On Indian highways, this isn’t a problem, but I’m a bit apprehensive about filling up at an unknown fuel station, something I need to get used to.
Below is the mileage log so far
Aftermarket Accessories: Since it's a new launch in India, all aftermarket accessories are from global brands like Givi, Hepco Becker, Wunderlich, and nothing is cheap.
Other than the above, I don’t have any other complaints.
I have a longer ride coming up in a few days and will share more details based on that experience. Now I’m quite excited as the running-in is done, there are no more throttle limits, I can use the cruise control, and it now has synthetic oil filled in.
Signing off with a pic on my favourite NH75 route.
Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.