BMW's new range of 650 singles

The Xchallenge, for example, comes with a particularly elaborate air damping system, while the Xcountry and the Xmoto feature a spring strut adjustable for length. The wheels and their dimensions, in turn, are tailored to each specific purpose, the Street Moto featuring 17-inch cast light-alloy rims, the Scrambler running on 19- and, respectively, 17-inch spoke wheels, and the Hard Enduro featuring 21- and, respectively, 18-inch spoke wheels highlighting the specific character of each machine.

The brake systems also differ from one model to another: The single-disc front-wheel brakes on the Xcountry and the Xchallenge each measure 300 millimetres in diameter and come in each case with a doublepiston brake calliper, while the Xmoto features a four-piston brake calliper interacting with a brake disc measuring 320 millimetres in diameter.

A feature truly unique in the segment of highly specialised single-cylinder motorcycles – but nevertheless quite natural on a BMW – is the optional availability of light and compact two-channel ABS for even greater braking performance. And it also goes without saying that the ABS anti-lock brake system does not in any way restrict the ambitious sports rider wishing to enjoy himself off the beaten track or on special circuits reserved for racing, since the system may be deactivated on demand. A

nd naturally, the offroad rider enjoying the Xchallenge benefits from the same freedom whenever he – or she – wishes. Again reflecting the usual standard of BMW Motorrad, the G 650 X models may also be customised by a wide range of accessories and special features tailored to each model. Indeed, the new models are not only the successors to the former singlecylinder machines, but rather round off the range as a whole, since both the F 650 GS and the F 650 GS Dakar are to remain in the model line-up in 2007, with production continuing at BMW Motorrad’s Berlin Plant.

The most important features of the new G 650 X model series at a glance: • Sporting and emotional design characterised in particular by lightweight features. • Fast-revving single-cylinder power unit developing maximum output of 39 kW (53 hp) at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm. • Crankshaft running in anti-friction bearings and an even lighter alternator reducing free mass forces. • DOHC valve drive with cup tappets and four valves. • Liquid cooling with an aluminium radiator. • Electronic BMS-C II engine management with intake manifold injection and dual ignition. • Stainless-steel exhaust system with three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor. • Dry sump lubrication with the oil tank positioned appropriately for an ideal centre of gravity. • Close-increment five-speed gearbox with secondary chain drive. • High-quality running gear components, eloxy-plated aluminium attachments. • Torsionally-rigid tubular bridge frame with bolted-on aluminium rear frame. • Stable upside-down telescopic fork, fixed-position tube measuring 45 millimetres in diameter. • Light and highly stable two-unit cast-aluminium swing arm. • Top-quality spring struts at the rear. • Low unladen weight between 156 and 160 kg (344 and 353 lb). • Conified aluminium tubular handlebar. • Foot brake and gearshift levers made of forged aluminium. • Fuel tank positioned beneath the seat for an ideal centre of gravity, with good access to the filler pipe. • High-performance brake system with on-demand ABS as an option. • Model-specific range of accessories and optional features.

The new single-cylinder models were developed under the leadership of BMW in cooperation with Aprilia and the machines are manufactured by Aprilia in its North Italian Scorzè Plant. And as on the F 650 models, the power unit comes from Austrian specialist Rotax, again following the specifications and requirements made by BMW Motorrad. In their overall concept, the three new models, using largely the same parts and components on the engine and frame as well as the same main features, seek to offer a very different and distinctive character in each case.

Optimised in weight, power and performance – the single-cylinder power unit.

The truly convincing single-cylinder power unit already featured in the existing BMW F 650 model series – to this day the benchmark in its class in terms of refinement, smoothness, fuel economy, and emission control – sets the foundation for the engines in all new G 650 X models.

...continued