BMW has become the first motorcycle manufacturer to launch a range of models that can be ordered with lowered suspension – to provide customers with lower seat height options.
Feedback from female, novice and shorter riders confirmed that controlling a machine can be difficult at slow speeds, especially when riding motorcycles with a higher seat height. BMW Motorrad already offers a lower seat as a factory-fit option for most of its models (at no extra charge), but some riders require their seat to be lower still. Motorcyclists feel more secure when they are able to place their feet firmly on the ground, especially under stop-start conditions. BMW’s new lower suspension bikes will ensure that more riders are able to do this - naturally, comfortably and safely.
As an example, the lowered suspension option currently available on the F 800 S and ST bikes, reduces the seat height from the standard 840mm to 760mm. This option was launched in 2007 and a staggering 45% of BMW customers have since taken advantage of this opportunity when ordering their new machine.
The six models that can be ordered with lowered suspension are: the sporty F 800 S, its sports touring derivative the F 800 ST, the ‘naked’ R 1200 R roadster, the top selling R 1200 RT touring machine and the new F 650 GS and R 1200 GS enduros.
All of the BMW factory-engineered lowered suspension bikes come with a low seat, but the actual lowering modification from the standard machine varies from model to model. Bikes such as the F 800 ST come with a shorter rear shock absorber and front forks which have been lowered through the yokes. Boxer engined models, such as the R 1200 RT and R 1200 GS, achieve the lower positioning by adding a shorter strut to the front and rear shock absorbers. The Telelever settings have been changed.
For further information on seat height reduction, or the range of BMW Motorrad motorcycles that will feature this option, please visit www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk, or visit your local BMW Motorrad dealership.
