Comments on: MD Triple-Tested: 2011 BMW F800R (Bike Reports) (News)

By: Wilson R

Wilson R — Sun, 29 May 2011 12:16:45 +0000

Sounds like a chick bike. Sorry.

By: Tami

Tami — Mon, 23 May 2011 16:58:06 +0000

Speaking of build quality, you might want to take a closer look at the Tiger 800 XC and tell me how you’re going to replace those WELDED on parts if you drop it versus the BOLTED on parts on the BMW GS bikes. That’s just poor off-road bike design on Triumph’s part – unless they never intended it to go off-road in the first place.

By: Charles Corum

Charles Corum — Tue, 17 May 2011 13:50:19 +0000

I have a R1200GS (my 6th Beemer) and love it for loaded long-haul tours; but I needed something lighter and more nimble for around town. I looked at the F800 series (and rode a rented F800GS on a tour in Patagonia), and liked the ergonomics and handling. However, I thought the out-the-door cost of $12K+ was excessive. I also really liked the Triumph Street Triple, but again the cost was a deal-breaker. It’s also a magnet for bike thieves.

I ended with the 2011 Kawasaki KLR650, (which I had owned before) and am very satisfied. It was under $7K out-the-door, has a dry weight of under 400 lbs., a 6.1 gallon tank, and is very nimble and fun to ride. You can also “farkle” (accessorize) to your heart’s content. It has a great reputation for durability, and many have used it for hardcore global tours.

Lastly, the BMW and Triumph, with their on-board computers means you have to take them back to the shop for anything but low-level maintenance, whereas the KLR650 is a breeze to work on.

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By: Rat Patrol

Rat Patrol — Tue, 17 May 2011 09:32:06 +0000

I have had a 1600 kms (1,000 mile) weekend on this bike and my mates on their 1000cc+ bikes didn’t want to hang with me on the tight bits. Any power advantage they have was a mute point most of the weekend.
Fuel range is never less than 380kms per tank, 430 kms if more or less restricted to 100kph speed limit. I’m no doughboy but still weigh in at 200lbs with a rear pack full of gear so that mileage is pretty good.
I guess it’s the most useable bike I’ve had…. an allrounder like we all used in the 60s/70s.
Another mate’s Tiger 800 is equally pleasing but thirstier and obviously heavier. I think the Beemer’s underseat petrol tank providing a low centre of gravity accentuates the feeling of agility. Both great bikes though.

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By: Rat Patrol

Rat Patrol — Tue, 17 May 2011 09:16:12 +0000

Very, very subjective view expressed by this person.

the Tiger 800 and the 800R actually are within a whisker of the same rear wheel 80-81 HP. The Beemer is lighter, more economical and has more range…..all nice traits. Both have equally good torque spread but the BMW doesn’t have to be revved as high to achieve maximum HP.
Having ridden both and liking them both I’d be expressing a fair and educated opinion, not a bias.

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By: MikeD

MikeD — Sat, 14 May 2011 19:24:44 +0000

LMAO. Priceless.

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By: Jim

Jim — Sat, 14 May 2011 17:16:33 +0000

As the owner of an unattractive bike (’09 Versys) I gotta say, that thing is fugly!

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By: Der Mouse

Der Mouse — Wed, 11 May 2011 20:42:38 +0000

Ride any or all of the BMW 800 twins, then ride a Triumph Tiger 800. No comparison. The Triumph is more powerful, smoother and less vibey, has a better torque spread, shifts easier, etc. Add to that the character of the triple and the higher level of build quality. Yes indeed, the British-made Tiger has nicer paint, quality fittings and just plain looks better built. The Beemers win on fuel mileage, period. Is that why you ride?

By: Tom Shields

Tom Shields — Wed, 11 May 2011 18:13:08 +0000

Oh, by the way – my favorite Cream album is…. all of ‘em!

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By: ziggy

ziggy — Wed, 11 May 2011 15:43:49 +0000

yes, change it asap

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