BMW introduced the F 450 R this Thursday, presenting the naked version based on the 450 platform, which was previously revealed with the adventure motorcycle F 450 GS. The model name, which had already been speculated by international media outlets, was officially confirmed. As suggested by the promotional material, the bike retains several components from its off-road sibling, such as the engine, while receiving the necessary adjustments to suit the naked format.
The manufacturer stated that the F 450 R's design follows the aesthetic of the S 1000 R, which is considered the most powerful naked bike offered by the brand.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The parallel twin engine has a capacity of 420 cm³ and features liquid cooling and a six-speed transmission. It generates 48 hp at 8,750 rpm and produces a torque of 4.38 kgf·m at 6,750 rpm, figures identical to those of the F 450 GS. Although BMW indicated that the engine was recalibrated for asphalt use, this change is noticeable in behavior and sound, not in the official technical data.
The company declared that 80% of the torque is accessible from 3,000 rpm. To help reduce vibrations, the bike uses an engine with 135° phased pins and a balance shaft. The official fuel consumption is 26.3 km/l, and with a 14-liter fuel tank, the range reaches 350 km. The exhaust system, made of stainless steel and equipped with two catalytic converters, complies with Euro 5+ standards; maintenance should be performed every 10 thousand kilometers.
Structure and Components
The steel tubular chassis is shared with the GS, keeping the engine integrated into the structure, but the F 450 R has specific adjustments and wheelbase distances to optimize both urban and highway use. At the front, there is a 43 mm KYB inverted fork. The rear is supported by a cast aluminum swingarm, which works together with a KYB central shock absorber, allowing adjustment of spring preload and rebound.
Only the Sport version, which is not part of the entry edition, offers compression and rebound adjustment on the fork. The 17-inch alloy wheels use tubeless tires sized 110/70 in the front and 150/60 in the rear. The braking system includes a 310 mm disc with a four-piston Brembo caliper at the front and a 240 mm disc with a single-piston ByBre caliper at the rear.
Technology and Versions
With a curb weight of 175 kg, BMW states that the F 450 R offers one of the best power-to-weight ratios in the A2 category, intended for riders with less experience, according to the European license. All models come equipped with ABS Pro, which functions even in curves, and DTC traction control, which minimizes rear wheel slip. Additionally, it includes DBC, which prevents unwanted acceleration during heavy braking, and MSR, which manages engine braking during downshifts to prevent rear wheel lock-up.
Rain, Road, and Dynamic riding modes are standard, as is the 6.5-inch TFT display, which offers connectivity for navigation, music, and calls. Other standard features include full LED lighting, dynamic brake light, and a USB-C port. Heated grips are also supplied from the factory, which is unusual for motorcycles in this price range. The seat height is 790 mm, adjustable to 775 mm or 810 mm with optional seats. Footpegs and side supports are made of forged aluminum, and the gear shift pattern can be reversed for track use. The Quickshifter and automated clutch are available only on the more expensive versions.
Availability
The F 450 R will be marketed in four distinct versions. Those who purchase the entry editions can add the quickshifter and ERC later as original accessories. BMW has not yet released prices or launch markets for the F 450 R, and there is no confirmation that this naked bike will reach Brazil. In Brazilian territory, the brand has only confirmed the F 450 GS, which will be manufactured in Manaus (AM), but without a defined price or launch date. Although it is likely that the naked bike will use the same assembly line, this remains only a local enthusiast expectation.