BMW's new range of 650 singles

The new Single-Cylinder BMW G 650 X Model Series. BMW Motorrad’s new range of single-cylinder models clearly show it is broadening its model line-up with a clear focus on additional target groups and proceeding from the same technical foundation, the Company has created three new motorcycles absolutely different in their features and characteristics: the G 650 Xchallenge Hard Enduro, G 650 Xmoto Street Moto, and the G 650 Xcountry Scrambler. With their outstanding product substance, their purist looks, and their exceptionally sporting riding characteristics, these single-cylinder models are filling attractive niches in the market. And through their low unladen weight of less than 160 kg or 353 lb according to the DIN standard, they offer dynamic performance for both the connoisseur and the sports-minded rider. The new G 650 X model series is planned for Q2, 2007.

These new machines with the smallest engines in the BMW model range offer particularly the young and young-at-heart motorcycle rider exactly the right entry into the world of BMW motorcycles, but are not entry-level bikes in the conventional sense of the word: On the contrary, the G 650 Xchallenge Hard Enduro will thrill the customer who wishes to really benefit from the enormous offroad potential of his machine.

The G 650 Xmoto Street Moto, in turn, with its very impressive active riding qualities, offers the genuine enthusiast a new dimension in riding pleasure. The G 650 Xcountry Scrambler, finally, stands for carefree riding pleasure and nimble performance both on the road and off the beaten track. Indeed, this unique machine is able to meet all kinds of requirements and offer virtually all riding qualities ranging from city use via country roads and small, winding lanes, all the way to offroad tracks presenting the most challenging requirements.

The G 650 Xcountry therefore conveys the classic but relaxed feeling of riding a genuine Scrambler as well as the concept of “wandering” on your motorcycle into today’s world in a most modern style. And last but certainly not least, riding pleasure is guaranteed under all conditions and in every situation, since the G 650 Xcountry offers the same outstanding engine and running gear qualities as its two very sporting “sister models”.

All three of these new models are powered by the single-cylinder carried over from the former F 650 models now optimised for even better performance and minimum weight: In the G 650 X-models, the upgraded engine now develops maximum output of 39 kW (53 hp) at 7,000 rpm, reaching maximum torque of 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm.

And it almost goes without saying that the engine’s well-known virtues such as superior reliability, motoring refinement, economy, and environmental friendliness have been enhanced to an even higher standard than ever before.

Yet a further improvement is the even more dynamic surge of power from the four-valve engine now made possible by the lighter crankdrive and a number of other modifications. The rear wheel, finally, is driven on all three model variants by an O-ring chain.

The bridge-type tubular frame made of steel with cast aluminium side sections and the bolted-on aluminium rear frame, together with the rear-wheel swing arm made of cast light alloy and a number of other high-quality components, characterise the suspension and running gear concept of the entire G 650 X model series – all components are the same on all three models.

Intelligent lightweight technology with a high degree of overall integration of the various components allows particularly low weight for a motorcycle in this class between 156 and 160 kg (344 and 353 lb), depending on the model (DIN unladen weight with 90 per cent tank filling). Dry weight, in turn, is between 144 and 148 kg or 318 and 326 lb. Various set-ups and versions of the upside-down telescopic fork as well as the rear suspension elements give each model its own special character and riding features.

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