Segment:
Mid-weight adventure touring motorcycle, positioned for riders seeking versatility on and off-road.
Competitors:
Triumph Tiger 800, Yamaha Ténéré 700 (though the T7 is newer), Kawasaki KLR650, Suzuki V-Strom 650.
Engine Platform:
Parallel-twin engine, known for its smooth power delivery and character.
Design Philosophy:
Combines BMW's engineering prowess with a robust chassis and suspension suitable for varied terrain.
Technology Highlights:
Optional ABS, integrated luggage system compatibility, optional heated grips, on-board computer.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive owner's information for the 2008 BMW F 800 GS, covering operation, maintenance, safety, and technical features.
Page Count:
Approximately 200-250 pages (estimated for a typical BMW owner's manual of this era)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Engine:
Engine operation, break-in procedures, oil level checks, coolant checks, fuel recommendations.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gear shifting, chain maintenance (lubrication, tension adjustment).
Brakes:
Brake system operation, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid checks, pad wear indicators.
Electrical System:
Battery care, fuse identification and replacement, lighting system operation, dashboard indicators and warnings.
Suspension Wheels Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel removal and installation basics, suspension adjustments (preload, damping where applicable).
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation basics, seat removal, luggage system attachment points.
Instrumentation Controls:
Explanation of all dashboard indicators, switches, buttons, and their functions.
Safety Features:
ABS operation, hazard warning lights, general riding safety advice.
Comfort Features:
Heated grips operation (if equipped), adjustable windshield/fairing (if applicable).
Routine Maintenance:
Engine oil and filter change, air filter inspection/replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, coolant checks, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake pad inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of warning lights and fault codes, basic problem diagnosis.
Safety Checks:
Pre-ride inspection checklist, tire pressure checks, brake function checks.
Fluid Management:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, chain lube recommendations and capacities.
Tire Care:
Correct tire pressures for various load conditions, advice on tire wear.
Cleaning Care:
Recommendations for cleaning and protecting the motorcycle.
Depth Level:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not cover in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, or complex electrical diagnostics, which would be found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
Parallel-twin, four-stroke
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 75.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
75 hp (55 kW) at 7,500 rpm
Torque:
75 Nm (55 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) via Bosch Motronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Fuel Tank Capacity:
16 liters (4.2 US gallons)
ABS:
Optional BMW Motorrad ABS
Braking System:
Dual disc front brake, single disc rear brake. Hydraulically operated.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame
Hand Protection:
Integrated hand protectors for weather and impact protection.
On Board Computer:
Optional on-board computer providing fuel consumption, average speed, outside temperature, and trip range.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a significant safety technology offered.
Accessories:
Provision for accessory sockets, heated grips, and potentially GPS mounting systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Change Interval:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Check:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,400 miles).
Chain Lubrication:
Every 1,000 km (620 miles) and after washing or rain riding.
Chain Tension Adjustment:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or as needed.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-40, API SG/JASO MA2 specification. Capacity: 2.4 liters with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Advanced Antifreeze or equivalent (ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors). Capacity: Approx. 1.7 liters.
Chain Lube:
Specific motorcycle chain lubricant (e.g., spray or grease).
Common Wear Items:
Chain and sprockets, brake pads, tires, clutch plates (at higher mileage).
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, some early models experienced minor electrical glitches, often related to connectors or battery terminals. The manual will help identify warning lights associated with these.
ABS Sensors:
ABS sensors can be sensitive to dirt and damage; proper cleaning is recommended.
Brand Focus:
BMW Motorrad has a long history of producing robust, technologically advanced motorcycles, particularly known for touring and adventure capabilities.
F Series Adventure:
The F 800 GS introduced BMW's parallel-twin engine into the mid-weight adventure segment, offering a more accessible and lighter alternative to the R 1200 GS.
Manufacturing Location:
Berlin, Germany
Production Years:
The F 800 GS platform was introduced in 2008 and received updates in subsequent years.
Industry Acclaim:
The F 800 GS was well-received for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, often praised for its engine character and handling in its class during its debut.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction, particularly for its intended use as a versatile adventure bike.
Emissions Standards:
Meets Euro 3 emissions standards for its model year.