BMW unveils F 800 R roadster

The 1200cc Lo-Rider concept may have been the big story to emerge from the BMW Motorrad camp at last week's EICMA 2008 Milan Motorcycle Show, but it wasn't the only new kid on the block. Set to join the F800S and ST in the company's mid-market line-up from May 2009, the new F 800 R naked roadster sports an 87hp in-line 2-cylinder engine, F800GS-style headlights, chain drive and a new light alloy cast double-sided swingarm.

Designed as a smaller sibling to the K 1300 R, the new naked gets an acceleration boost via shorter gear ratios from fourth to sixth and will be available with an ABS option that includes a newly developed pressure sensor for finer regulation. Optional add-ons to the standard model will include a sport windshield, radiator trim panels, a pillion passenger cover and an engine spoiler.

The F 800 R naked will surface in the UK later this month at the International Motorcycle Show in Birmingham. When it hits the road in the UK next year pricing is expected to be in the sub-£6000 range.

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