BMW F650 CS (2002 - 2005) review

New riders who like the look should take a test ride on one, as long as most of their riding is either in town or commuting
Easygoing, with well thought out features. Very under-rated city bike.
Not very powerful and the looks are a bit suspect

Initially you don’t want to like the BMw F650 CS because of its ‘interesting’ looks, but spend some time on it and it’s a surprisingly good machine.

In typical BMW fashion, everything is well thought out and it all works together well. Aimed at first time riders who have just passed their test, it has a responsive, if not very powerful Rotax engine, belt drive and a range of pannier options.

Other neat bits include pillion grab rails on the tank and a storage rack. A good first time bike that new riders will really appreciate.

Initially you don’t want to like the BMw F650 CS because of its ‘interesting’ looks, but spend some time on it and it’s a surprisingly good machine.

In typical BMW fashion, everything is well thought out and it all works together well. Aimed at first time riders who have just passed their test, it has a responsive, if not very powerful Rotax engine, belt drive and a range of pannier options.

Other neat bits include pillion grab rails on the tank and a storage rack. A good first time bike that new riders will really appreciate.

Length (mm)2142
Width (mm)915
Height (mm)1158
Dryweight (kg)170
Seats0
Seat Height (mm)780
Suspension FrontTelescopic fork, stanchion diameter 41 mm
Suspension RearDie-cast aluminium single-sided swinging arm
Adjustability RearRear wheel axle adjustable via Excenter, central strut controlled by means of lever system
Wheels Front3.00 x 17
Wheels Rear4.50 x 17
Tyres Front110/70 ZR 17
Tyres Rear160/60 ZR 17
Brakes FrontSingle disc brake, diameter 300 mm, double-piston
Brakes RearSingle disc brake, diameter 240 mm, 1-piston float
Tank Capacity (litres)15
ChassisBridging frame consisting of steel profiles with integrated oil tank and rear frame fastened with screws
Cubic Capacity (cc)652
Max Power (bhp)50
Max Power Peak (rpm)6500
Torque (ft/lb)44
Torque Peak (rpm)5000
Bore (mm)100
Stroke (mm)83
Valve GearDOHC
Compression Ratio11.5
Valves Per Cylinder4
CoolingWater cooled
Fuel DeliveryElectronic intake pipe injection
Stroke TypeFour Stroke
DriveBelt