Last October we reported on the first sightings of the new BMW G650X range. We have now had the chance to test-ride all three of them: the Challenge, Country and Moto.
These test rides took place in Portugal, in the area between Quinta de Lago and Cahopo, north of Faro. This area has many kilometres of off-road tracks and twisty roads, ideal for these kinds of machines. We enjoyed bright sunshine and the 16 degree temperatures.
In BMW-speak, they talk of the "G650 Cross"' which makes it sound a bit like a range of mongrels. All three machines use the same basic frame, engines, controls and exhaust systems. All weigh in at 144-148kg.
The first variant we tried was the G650X Challenge. This is styled like an enduro machine but whilst it is not what enthusiasts would regard as a hardcore enduro, it is well capable of handling rough terrain. It has the look and all the features to make for a great deal of off-road fun. Both front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable. BMW are using the same type of air-damped shock as on their HP2. Unlike oil-damped shocks, which can lose their efficiency if the oil gets too hot as a result of constant rebounding, air-damped shocks are unaffected.
Colour choice on the Challenge is limited - you can have any colour scheme you like so long as it is blue and white. The one drawback we found was the 920mm saddle height. It is far from easy to mount or re-mount after a spill, a likely occurrence when off-road. This saddle is also very firm and narrow, although most of the time off-road you would be standing on the footpegs. In recent times BMW seat heights seem to be increasing somewhat faster than homo sapiens are evolving.
The next variant to be tested was the G650X Country. This is a much more versatile kind of bike; more of an on-road bike but with good off-road capability, in some respects a somewhat more sporty, lightweight version of BMW's F650GS. It has a much more comfortable seat with a lower height and it can also accommodate a pillion passenger. Thoughtfully, there is an exhaust heat shield to help save your passenger from burning when reaching back for the grab rails or luggage rack.
The Country is thoroughly practical for everyday use. Sadly the design of the exhaust system, the same mistake BMW made on the now discontinued F650CS, is such as to mitigate against fitted panniers. Instead you have to make do with a topbox and fabric bag on the pillion seat. The mirrors vibrate a bit, but no more than one would expect from a single-cylinder engine. The brakes are very good. There is no screen, something that would make for more comfortable year round riding in our climate. It should be a popular first bike.
Last in the line-up was the Moto. This motard-style bike is a stylish fun machine which would not be a first choice for everyday use. The saddle is very firm and thin and whilst there is a passenger footrest kit as an accessory, carrying a passenger is not this model's forte. It is a nimble, performance-orientated, exhilarating machine which would be enormous fun on the track. Let it loose on the road and your licence would soon start to smoulder. First rate, firm suspension, good brakes and a smooth gear change complete the picture. Cast-alloy wheels enhance its stylish appearance.
Challenge; Country; Moto
Factfile
ENGINE: 652cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC 4-valve 4-stroke, 39kW(53hp) @ 7000rpm, 60Nm(44lb-ft) @ 5250rpm, 11.5:1 compression, fuel injection, 3-way catalytic converter, 5-speed, chain
CHASSIS: Steel bridge tubular frame. USD telescopic forks 45mm dia. Alloy swinging arm. Air damping system. Gas pressure spring strut.
Spring travel mm: 270/270;
240/210; 270/245
Wheelbase mm: 1,500; 1,498; 1,500
Front disk dia: 300; 300; 320
Calliper pistons: 2; 2; 4
Rear disk dia: 240; 240; 240
Wheels: Spoke; Spoke; Cast
Front: 1.60x21; 2.50x19; 3.50x17
Rear: 2.50x18; 3.00x17; 4.50x17
DIMENSIONS:
Seat height mm: 930; 840-870; 920
Dry weight kg: 144; 148; 147
Fuel ltrs: 9.5; 9.5; 9.5
PERFORMANCE:
0-60 km/h: 4.01; 4.01; 4.03
Top speed km/h: 165; 170; 170
PRICE: €10,300; €9,800; €10,900
Includes VAT, VRT, delivery charges, PDI, full tank of fuel, number plate and labour charges for first service.