Segment:
Adventure Touring / Dual-Sport Motorcycle
Target Audience:
BMW F650GS owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle enthusiasts.
Class Competitors:
Honda Transalp, Kawasaki KLR650, Suzuki DR650, Yamaha XT660R.
Vehicle Appeal:
Versatile, reliable, fuel-efficient, suitable for both on-road touring and light off-road use.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving time and money, and ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the motorcycle.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all internal components (pistons, rings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, etc.), cooling system, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI) diagnosis and repair, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnosis and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, maintenance, repair, clutch system (friction plates, springs, hydraulic actuation), shift mechanism.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, swingarm bearings, suspension components (forks, rear shock absorber), wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Brake fluid change, brake pad replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake disc inspection and replacement, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, switches, instrument cluster.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe inspection, muffler maintenance, gasket replacement.
Cooling System:
Coolant type and capacity, radiator maintenance, fan operation, thermostat replacement.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, luggage system mounting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake bleeding, coolant flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including torque specifications.
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling all parts and assemblies.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all critical torque values for engine, chassis, and brake components.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting.
ABS:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models/years.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes with twin-piston calipers, single disc rear brake with single-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight.
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame for durability and torsional rigidity.
Handguards:
Standard handguards for protection against wind and debris.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, hazard warning light switch.
ABS Availability:
Optional ABS system, providing enhanced braking control, especially on slippery surfaces.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic port for connecting to BMW's diagnostic software for advanced fault finding and system checks.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually
Air Filter Check:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50, API SG/SH or higher, BMW Motorrad Special (or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 liters (2.9 US qt) with filter change
Coolant:
BMW Motorrad Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 (if hydraulically operated)
Regulator Rectifier:
Early models may experience failure of the regulator/rectifier unit, leading to charging system issues. Upgrade may be available.
Water Pump Seal:
Potential for water pump seal leaks over time. Regular inspection recommended.
Suspension Wear:
Like many bikes of this era, fork seals and rear shock absorbers may require servicing or replacement due to age and mileage.
ABS Sensor Issues:
If equipped with ABS, sensor rings or modules can become fouled or fail, causing ABS warning lights.
Manufacturer:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW)
Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing robust and reliable motorcycles, particularly known for their engineering and touring capabilities.
F Series Introduction:
The F650GS (single-cylinder) platform was introduced to offer a more accessible and lighter alternative to BMW's larger boxer-twin models, while maintaining adventure touring capabilities.
Predecessors:
Based on the F650 'Funduro' and 'Stratos' models.
Manufacturing Location:
Italy (by Aprilia for BMW) for earlier models, later moved to BMW's Berlin plant for the F650GS Twin.
Key Distinction:
This generation is characterized by its single-cylinder Rotax-designed engine, making it distinct from the later twin-cylinder F650GS (which became the F700GS).
