To say the BMW F800GT is a brilliant first big bike is to do it a huge disservice – so, with apologies with to Bavaria’s finest…
The BMW F800GT really is a brilliant first big bike.
It’s a little over 12 months since I passed my test and for much of that time it’s been my two-wheeled friend – faultlessly guiding me through those all-important early days.
Having done my direct access training at BMW’s excellent rider school in Royston, hopping on to this bike was a logical and, importantly, safe progression.
Your first few months out on the road on your own are thrilling and liberating but naturally a little intimidating too.
The F800GT is certainly a more grown up bike than the F700GS I learned on, but the familiarity was undoubtedly a huge help.
The thing I have realised very quickly about riding bikes is that one is never enough. In an ideal world you need about five different styles.
Of course, in reality, most people have to settle for choosing one machine at a time and so decisions have to be made.
Is your bike just for Sunday morning fun or is it a day-to-day commuter?
If, like me, the answer is a bit of both then certain things become more desirable – a comfy riding position and a screen for starters. Here the F800GT scores well.
It’s easy to imagine sitting on it all day as you cruise across Europe but it is also nimble enough to make coping with commuter traffic really manageable. And it looks great in the process.
The engine is good for 90bhp so progress is swift without being manic.
My BMW learner bike had a 75bhp version of the same engine (don’t be fooled by the 700 moniker) – another reason why it makes an excellent first choice.
It may not make the sexiest sound but the power delivery is smooth and reassuring.
Many of my miles were spent on motorways but whenever possible I would head for the slip road and go in search something a little more stimulating.
This combination allowed me to quickly discover what an excellent all-rounder the F800GT is. The bike, and therefore its rider, was equally at home in either environment.
The brakes are very good (but nothing like the VFR1200 I had on test for a few weeks – more on that and its extraordinary stopping capabilities later) and it comes with ABS.
Handling is excellent – the blend of comfort and agility is spot on.
I like this bike. What will be interesting is how I will feel about it after trying other machines.
My gut feeling is that it will always have a special place in my heart.
For newbies and experienced riders alike, this really is a damn good bike – and I’m missing it quite badly.