Introducing the new range of single-cylinder models, BMW Motorrad is broadening its model line-up with a clear focus on additional target groups. 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. Market launch of the new G 650 X model series is planned in good time for the beginning of the season in spring 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. 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 or 11.81´´ 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 or 12.60´´ 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. And 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 outputof 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 (1.77´´) 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.
Technical Basis
The new single-cylinder models were developed under the leadership of BMW in cooperation with Aprilia S.p.A., Noale, Italy (Piaggio Group). Production is by Aprilia in their North Italian Scorzè Plant, naturally fulfilling all of BMW's strict quality standards. 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.
The technical distinctions and unique features characteristic of each model are described in greater detail in Section 2.2.
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.Reflecting the different sporting requirements and demands made of each model, a number of components have been modified to reduce the weight of the new motorcycles by approximately 2 kg, enhancing the engine's fast-revving response and performance and boosting engine output by 2 kW. As a result, the power unit not only offers maximum output increased to 39 kW or 53 hp at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 60 Nm or 44 lb-ft at 5,250 rpm, but also even more dynamic performance and a greater athletic character in every respect. Even lighter than before, the alternator minimises the free mass weight of the entire crankdrive system running in anti-friction bearings, giving the single-cylinder even more spontaneous and athletic performance. The balance shaft serving to optimise smoothness and running refinement has been retained, with the new starter and alternator cover made of magnesium making a significant contribution to the lower weight of the engine. The redesigned four-valve cylinder head, finally, serves mainly to connect the power unit ideally to the frame and suspension as a load-bearing element.
Engine management is provided by BMW BMS-C II electronic engine control responsible not only for the concept of manifold injection, but also for the dual ignition system. Indeed, BMS-C II engine management even features model-specific control maps tailored to the various motorcycle concepts. And thanks to the all-new stainless-steel exhaust complete with its oxygen sensor and three-way catalytic converter now moved higher up than before, as well as the precise engine set-up, the short-stroke power unit significantly outperforms the EU 3 emission standard.
The proven valve drive system with its timing chain, two overhead camshafts and cup tappets, as well as the aluminium radiator cooling system, all remain unchanged. The gearbox likewise remains the same as before, while the final drive ratio on the chain sprocket has been modified, with a 15-tooth pinion and a 47-tooth sprocket on the G 650 Xchallenge providing a shorter ratio than on the other two G 650 X models with their longer 16:47 ratio. The different roll circumference on the rear tyres, finally, also affects each model's riding dynamics.
Yet another new feature is the dry sump oil tank to the left behind the cylinder, contributing to the perfect concentration of masses around the motorcycle's centre of gravity and thus promoting the unique handling of each model to an even higher standard.
Ease of maintenance with service intervals of 10,000 kilometres or 6,000 miles unusually long in this segment remains at the same high level as before.
Highly stable lightweight frame made of steel and aluminium.
The particularly light frame is the same on all three models in the G 650 X series and is made up of four highly stable modules: The welded main frame made of steel profile sections, aluminium castings bolted on to the main frame around the swing arm mounting point, the aluminium lower section holding the engine in position, the forged aluminium auxiliary frame serving to take up spring strut forces, and the aluminium frame bolted on at the rear.
With its appropriate use of materials specifically chosen at each point and tailored precisely to load requirements, this concept makes a significant contribution to the minimisation of overall weight
which is precisely why the various models weigh a mere 156 kg/344 lb (Xchallenge, the lightest model) to 160 kg/353 lb (Xcountry, the heaviest model) with a full tank according to the DIN standard.The intelligent mix of materials on the frame offers a number of other benefits: The aluminium castings around the swing arm mounting point the rider is bound to touch with his boots are eloxy-plated to prevent any such contact from leaving behind unwanted marks. At the same time the swing arm mounting point has been modified in its configuration, the swing arm now pivoting exclusively on the main frame and not on the engine block, and being positioned relatively close to the pinion. This not only serves to provide even faster drivetrain response, but also reduces the tolerance (less slackness) of the drive chain.
Light rear frame and lower section made of aluminium.
The rear frame is bolted on to the main frame, allowing easy and low-cost replacement in the event of damage. To make the rear frame resistant to even the highest loads, high-strength aluminium forgings are welded into the ends of the eloxy-plated aluminium frame tubes bolted on to the main frame. The lower frame section holding the power unit at the front boasts the same very special lightweight technology.
Double swing arm made of cast light alloy.
The extremely stable, double aluminium swing arm also comes with topquality eloxy-plated surface finish. Made of cast aluminium, the double swing arm is heat-treated in the production process in the interest of even greater strength and stability provided by the more consistent grain structure of the material.
Wheel guidance on all models in the BMW G 650 X range is provided by a spring strut pivoting at the top on a forged aluminium mount. This ensures smooth and consistent distribution and flow of forces, since the forged aluminium support rests itself on two points
first, on the side sections of the frame, and second, on the cylinder head itself through a bolted connection and, in the immediate vicinity, on the stable connection linking the cylinder head and the frame of the motorcycle.Upside-down telescopic fork with different spring travel on each model.
The upside-down telescopic fork (USD fork) is one of the suspension components identical on all three models in the new BMW G 650 X model range. The different character of each model is borne out by different spring travel, a different set-up, and differences in design and configuration around the wheel mounting point. A further feature on the Xmoto and Xchallenge is adjustment of the telescopic fork both inbound and outbound.
With tube diameter of 45 millimetres or 1.77´´, forged aluminium fork bridges, and wheel axle diameter of 20 millimetres or 0.79´´, the telescopic fork is extremely strong and torsionally resistant, ensuring supreme directional stability at all times.
Tank fitted in the frame triangle for optimum weight distribution and concentration of masses.
The position of the fuel tank in the frame triangle beneath the seat, a concept already proven on the F 650 GS, has been carried over to all three single-cylinder models on account of its obvious benefits, with optimum concentration of masses near the motorcycle's low centre of gravity. Made of a special plastic material, the fuel tank has a capacity of 9.5 litres or 2.1 imp gals and is filled from the right through the lockable tank filler pipe. Even though this fuel capacity may appear to be relatively small at first sight, it is sufficient for a cruising range of up to 250 kilometres or 155 miles, since the single-cylinder power unit is very fuel-efficient.
Light and modern two-channel ABS
quite unique in this segment.As an option, the G 650 X models are available straight from the plant with new two-channel ABS from Bosch, the latest generation of BMW Motorrad ABS already featured on the F 800 S/ST and the R 1200 S. The particular advantages of this anti-lock brake system are not only compact dimensions and low weight of just 1.5 kg or 3.3 lb, but also a high standard of precision and quality in controlling the brakes: The pressure modulator masterminds optimum brake pressure in the ABS mode via intake valves with linear control, keeping the control intervals very fast and precise. And a further advantage of the modern valves with their infinitely variable cross-sections is that the rider feels only a very weak pulse effect in the brake levers.
Enhanced diagnostic functions round off the benefits offered by this modern and sophisticated ABS control system. The wheel speed sensors, for example, automatically monitor their distance from the sensor wheel and thus contribute to the supreme standard of safety offered by the system. To ensure an optimum and consistent pressure point at all times, the brake system comes with steel-reinforced brake lines even on models not fitted with ABS. A further point is that the rider is able to deactivate the ABS anti-lock brake system when riding offroad under particularly sporting conditions or when enjoying his machine on a closed circuit. And last but not least, all models fitted with ABS come complete with a 12-V power socket.
Features and equipment
giving great attention to each and every detail.The lightweight concept is also maintained consistently with all the motorcycle's attachments and auxiliary units revealing great attention to detail: The footbrake and gearshift levers are made of light, forged and therefore highly stable aluminium. The gearshift lever comes complete with a springloaded, folding boom at the side, the footbrake lever, through its rolled mounting, allows particularly sensitive operation of the rear wheel brake of particular significance on the Street Moto.
The side-stands on the Xchallenge and Xmoto are made of forged aluminium, the numberplate supports and direction indicators can be easily removed for sports riding on a closed circuit. And again last but certainly not least, wide, zig-zagged footrests ensure safe support and stability.
The high-strength light-alloy tubular handlebar comes in conical design for maximum surface contact at all fastening points despite minimum weight. The handlebar supports varying in height on all three models are mounted on rubber holders in the forged fork bridges as a solution efficiently absorbing any unpleasant vibration without reducing the direct feel of the handlebar so important to the demanding rider.
The cockpit is intentionally purist in design and configuration, with clear and easy-to-read instruments informing the rider at all times of his speed, the time of day, and the distance he has covered. Two trip counters may be activated at the touch of a button, and the cockpit also presents a battery charge reading. In the interest of enhanced flexibility, the instruments may be converted by an authorised workshop to either miles or kilometres, whatever the rider requires. The rear lights come in cutting-edge LED technology ensuring a rapid response, above-average service life, a high degree of light intensity, and power consumption kept to a minimum. The direction indicators come as standard with white lenses.
Reflecting the technology usual in this class, electrical energy supply and the cables in the electrical system retain their conventional technical features. The battery is readily accessible behind the handlebar unit to the right beneath the fairing.
All models in the G 650 X series are registered for riding with a passenger. The passenger kits available as special equipment on the G 650 Xchallenge and G 650 Xmoto are made up of special handles and high-quality, forged footrest supports. And a final advantage is that converting the machines for riding with a passenger does not require an entry in the motorcycle's homologation documents.
BMW G 650 Xmoto
enjoying fast bends on the road.Even at a standstill, the Street Moto clearly proves that this very special machine focuses on one highlight in particular: sheer riding pleasure on country roads. Small 17-inch wheels, the aluminium handlebar fastened i position by extra-short mounting clamps, the front wheel cover complete with its colour-highlighted tube protectors fitted close to the tyre, as well as the headlight fairing finished in twin-tone Graphitane metallic matt and Red clearly change the proportions of this special model, giving the G 650 Xmoto an even more muscular and athletic look, even though many of the fairing components as well as the asymmetrically designed headlight are the same as on the Hard Enduro.
The Street Moto nevertheless stands out significantly from its "sister models" in terms of its suspension set-up, with the smaller cast-aluminium 17-inch wheels running on sports tyres with very good grip ensuring optimised handling in every respect. Measuring 120/70 at the front and 160/60 at the rear, the tyres reflect the muscular look and character of the machine, allowing use of the latest sports tyres on the rims measuring 3.5 and, respectively, 4.5 inches in width.
Apart from lower gyro-forces on the front wheel, the shorter camber also enhances the motorcycle's handling and agility on the road. The forward-leaning seating position also helps to make long and winding bends as well as serpentines a truly outstanding pleasure on two wheels, optimum directional stability on straight passages in between again leaving nothing to be desired.
One of the improvements made to optimise the motorcycle's suspension geometry is the opening for the front axle moved further back, again in the interest of almost playful but nevertheless safe handling for significant benefits also in city traffic.
Both the springs and dampers are specifically tailored to the Street Moto with its particular requirements and riding qualities. While the upside-down telescopic fork offers 270 millimetres or 10.6´´ spring travel like on the Hard Enduro, the fork is even firmer and tauter all round in its inbound and rebound motion. Particularly the sporting rider will be happy to enjoy the sensitive, incremental adjustment of the damper in both directions, ensuring an individual, personalised set-up at all times.
Rear-wheel suspension, in turn, is firmer and shorter, with spring travel at the rear of 245 millimetres or 9.65´´.
The Street Moto boasts the most powerful brake system of all models in the G 650 X line-up: At the front a four-piston fixed calliper interacts with a 320-millimetre (12.60´´) brake disc in floating arrangement, interacting with high-grip radial tyres for exceptional deceleration benefiting in particular from the very high torsional stability of the USD telescopic fork with its main tubes measuring 45 millimetres or 1.77´´ in diameter.
With its 240-millimetre (9.45´´) brake disc and floating-calliper configuration, the rear-wheel brake is the same as on the other two models.
Final drive on the G 650 X Moto conceived for road use comes with a ratio of 16 : 47 teeth, that is somewhat "longer" than on the Enduro version.
Optional extras and special equipment.
Tailored to the specific features and requirements of each model in the G 650 X range, the special equipment offered by BMW Motorrad can be fitted ideally on the spot by the customer's motorcycle dealer. The only optional extra offered straight from the factory is BMW Motorrad ABS always fitted together with a 12-volt power socket.
