The new F 700 GS and F 800 GS continue to feature the robust and torsionally stiff steel frame in tubular construction with the engine integrated as a load-bearing element. The rear frame in square steel tubing, the steering head connection via gusset plates and the single-section chill-cast double-sided swing arm made of aluminium also remain unchanged, reflecting the high-quality finish and slim structure of the two GS models.
Double disc brake system for the F 700 GS.
Like the F 800 GS, the new F 700 GS now also has a double disc brake with an effective diameter of 300 millimetres and dual piston floating calipers on the front wheel. The connection between the brake discs and front wheel is floating in both models.
On the rear wheels, both models feature a single disc brake with a disc diameter of 265 millimetres and single-piston floating caliper.
Both models are fitted with new brake fluid reservoirs which fit harmoniously into the overall appearance.
ABS now a standard feature in both models.
Based on the BMW Motorrad principle “Safety 360°”, the latest generation of the BMW Motorrad two-channel ABS will be installed as standard for the first time. The new system is not only lighter but is also more compact in size that the previous generation. What is more, it now has inlet valves which can be infinitely adjusted for an even better response. New wheel sensors automatically monitor the distance between sensor and sensor wheel. As usual, the new standard ABS can be deactivated at the press of the button if the rider so wishes – for example for active riding over rough terrain.
Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA as an ex works option.
On request (ex works option) and uniquely in this segment of the motorcycle market, the rider can conveniently set the rebound stage damping of the rear spring strut on the F 700 GS and F 800 GS at the press of a button on the handlebar. This Electronic Suspension Adjustment – or ESA for short – allows adjustment of the suspension settings with maximum operational convenience, even during travel. The rider selects a damping variant from among “Comfort”, “Normal” and “Sport” and the electronic control system measures the appropriate damping rate based on optimum parameters stored in the data memory. Damper settings can be changed simply at the press of a button while riding, with a small, light stepper motor carrying out the commands. A symbol appears in the cockpit accordingly. The adjustment of the spring mount is made manually by means of an optimised, easily accessible hand wheel.
Automatic Stability Control ASC as an ex works option.
Another unique feature within the market segment of the new F 700 GS and F 800 GS is the availability of the BMW Motorrad rider assistance system ASC – one of the most popular ex work options for BMW motorcycles.
ASC prevents unwanted spinning of the rear wheel while accelerating, which would result in the loss of lateral grip and thus break-out of the rear wheel. By comparing the rotational speeds of the front and rear wheel obtained via the ABS sensors, the electronic system detects spin in the rear wheel and cuts back engine torque accordingly by reducing the ignition angle as well as adapting injection via the engine control system.
In this way ASC makes for more efficient power transmission and therefore increased safety. If regulatory intervention by the electronic system is not desired – on the race track for example – the rider can simply deactivate it at the press of a button, even during travel.
