{"id":14126,"date":"2022-05-18T00:34:22","date_gmt":"2022-05-18T00:34:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/a-middleweight-with-many-hats\/"},"modified":"2022-05-18T00:34:23","modified_gmt":"2022-05-18T00:34:23","slug":"a-middleweight-with-many-hats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/a-middleweight-with-many-hats\/","title":{"rendered":"A Middleweight With Many Hats"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<p>The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/tag\/bmw\/\">BMW<\/a><\/strong> F 900 XR received its last major update in 2020, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/this-is-why-the-bmw-f-900-xr-is-a-great-allround-sports-tourer-\/\">we noted the new model\u2019s all-around capability in our first look review<\/a>. We\u2019ve spent the last two weeks putting the 2022 model, and our words, to the test, dutifully slicing through the traffic on the milk run, the canyons on a Sunday morning, and even putting in some two-up cruising on the back-roads. In short, we found that the F 900 XR is rather good at everything.<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #1! --><!-- No winning ad found for zone: Below First Paragraph! --><!-- No winning ad found for zone: mid intro! --> <\/p>\n<p>Okay, it isn\u2019t rip-your-face-off fast, and the 17-inch front wheel does not invite off-road adventuring. Nonetheless, it is a pretty credible contender for just about everything else. Although <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmwmotorcycles.com\/en\/models\/tour\/r1250rt\/technicaldata.html#\/section-technical-data\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">BMW lumped it in with the Adventure models<\/a>, I suspect categorizing the F 900 XR presented a challenge to the Germanic sense of order. It has one foot firmly planted in their Tour lineup and a solid toe in the Roadster class, and for that matter, we\u2019d take it over a scooter for Urban Mobility every day of the week (but maybe that&#8217;s just us).<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><\/p>\n<div class=\"w-review-item\" id=\"review-item-1\">\n<div class=\"w-review-item-img\">\n<div class=\"swiper-container gallery-top gallery-top-1\">\n<div class=\"swiper-wrapper \">\n<div class=\"swiper-slide review-item-gallery-img gallery-1-img\" id=\"gallery-top-1-image-0\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img img-size-review-item\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpresshttps:\/\/static0.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-800-XR.jpg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"2400\" height=\"1600\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 800 XR Sport red\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static0.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-800-XR.jpg\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"review-item-details feat\">\n <strong class=\"review-item-sub-title\">Key Features<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>6.5-inch Color TFT display<\/li>\n<li>Two Selectable Rider Modes (Four with Options Package)<\/li>\n<li>4-Piston Brembo Brakes<\/li>\n<li>Optional Seat Heights<\/li>\n<li>Adjustable Windshield<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"review-item-details sepcs\">\n <strong class=\"review-item-sub-title\">Specifications<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Model:<\/strong> F 900 XR<\/li>\n<li><strong>Engine\/Motor:<\/strong> 895cc Water-cooled Parallel-Twin Engine, Four-Valves per Cylinder<\/li>\n<li><strong>Horsepower:<\/strong> 99 hp @ 8,500 RPM<\/li>\n<li><strong>Torque:<\/strong> 68 lb-ft @ 6,750 RPM<\/li>\n<li><strong>Drivetrain:<\/strong> O-Ring Chain with Hub Damping<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transmission:<\/strong> 6-Speed with Optional Quickshifter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"review-item-pros-cons\">\n<div class=\"review-item-details\">\n <strong class=\"review-item-sub-title\">Pros<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"pro-list\">\n<li>Incredible agility and handling<\/li>\n<li>Solid touring credentials in a sporty package<\/li>\n<li>Characterful engine provides ample power in lower gears<\/li>\n<li>Optional electronics add confidence in all conditions<\/li>\n<li>Excellent ergonomics for rider and pillion<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"review-item-details\">\n <strong class=\"review-item-sub-title\">Cons<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"con-list\">\n<li>Engine loses its zing in the higher gear ratios<\/li>\n<li>Centerstand not included as standard equipment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><!-- No winning ad found for zone: native in content! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"model-history\"> Model History<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.566151526574%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act8.jpeg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"2653\" height=\"1766\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR black arai_helmet\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act8.jpeg\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>BMW first launched the F-series of parallel twin-powered motorcycles in 2006, opening up a new middleweight market for the Bavarian manufacturer. The F 800 GS and GSA developed a loyal following as capable, lower-priced, and lighter alternatives to their big \u2018R\u2019 boxer-powered siblings. Nonetheless, the innovative Rotax engine never quite matched the competition on the street and the F 800 ST and later GT sport-touring models came and went, leaving only the portly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/one-feature-of-the-bmw-f-800-r-stands-out-from-the-rest\/\">F 800 R roadster<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #2! --> <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"related-single\">RELATED: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/the-2022-ktm-1290-super-duke-gt-is-the-ultimate-sports-tourer-for-hooligans\/\">The 2022 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Is The Ultimate Sports Tourer For Hooligans<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>In 2020 BMW introduced their newly developed 895cc, DOHC, 4-valve-per-cylinder parallel twin. It had a far more purposeful character stemming from an increased capacity and the 270-degree firing order, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/heres-how-the-2022-ducati-multistrada-v2-stacks-up-against-the-bmw-f-850-gs\/\">introduced in the F 850 GS<\/a> models in 2019. Fitted to the newly minted F 900 R and XR, they had a more raucous exhaust note and improved performance. The updated twin also benefited from new cylinder heads, forged pistons, a higher 13.1:1 compression ratio, and thanks to dual counter-balancers, engine vibration remained negligible. BMW claims the 2022 F 900 XR puts out a solid 99 horsepower, with a healthy torque curve, maxing out at 68 lb-ft at 6,750 RPM.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #3! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-versatile-middleweight-with-character\"> A Versatile Middleweight With Character<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.592592592593%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-actlead.png\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"1350\" height=\"899\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR with ESA Semi-Active Suspension\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-actlead.png\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>Much like its larger cousin, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/2022-bmw-s-1000-xr-review\/\">S 1000 XR we recently reviewed<\/a>, the F 900 XR exudes versatility and offers a healthy suite of standard and optional electronics but delivers them in a more accessible package. The base model has an MSRP of only $11,695. The powerband is less apt to punish over-exuberant inputs, and the available saddle configurations take the seat height from an imposing 34.5 inches to just 31.<\/p>\n<p>The F 900 XR uses a steel bridge frame, making the engine a stressed member of the chassis. A bolt-on subframe helps to bring the maximum payload up to 483-pounds. An aluminum double-sided swing-arm and massive 43mm, non-adjustable fork cradle sporty cast-aluminum 17-inch wheels, equipped with Michelin Road 5 GT tires. A 120\/70 front and 180\/55 at the rear. The monoshock is fully adjustable. Dual, 320mm, ventilated floating discs with 4-pot Brembo radial calipers handle braking at the front, and a single-piston caliper combines with a 265mm disc at the rear. Control levers are adjustable, as is the windshield, which has two height settings, easily altered with one hand on the fly.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #4! --> <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"related-single\">Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/triumph-tiger-sport-660-offers-the-tridents-engine-in-a-middleweight-sport-tourer\/\">Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Offers The Trident\u2019s Engine In A Middleweight Sport-Tourer<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>What distinguishes the BMW F 900 XR from its sister model, the F 900 R? Not a lot on paper. Both models share the same engine, chassis, and equipment. Nonetheless, the R\u2019s racier ergonomics, marginally lower stance, and slightly shorter wheelbase promise sportier handling, which combined with its naked styling, definitively place it in the middleweight naked-sports class. The upright XR\u2019s fairing, windshield, and larger 4.1-gallon fuel tank add long-distance credibility and the additional 17-pounds don\u2019t put much of a dent in its sports credentials.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #5! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"electronics-rider-aids-and-options\"> Electronics, Rider Aids, And Options<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.622428666224%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-actlead3.jpg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"1507\" height=\"1004\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR black w. Premium Package\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-actlead3.jpg\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p> The excellent 6.5-inch color TFT display carries over from the 2020 model, and standard features include two riding modes (Road and Rain) and BMW\u2019s proprietary ASC traction control technology, a welcome addition in wet-weather. ABS and BMW\u2019s Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC) also come standard, improving stability when emergencies or poor judgment threaten to unsettle the bike. Emergency braking can lead to pulling hard on the brake lever before fully rolling off the throttle, engaging DBC, which will inhibit throttle inputs helping the brakes do their job. Dumping the throttle, especially mid-corner, can lead to rear-wheel slip, and the EBC system regulates throttle response, optimizing grip.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #6! --> <\/p>\n<p>A host of optional electronic aids adds to the XR\u2019s usability and final price. Our test bike benefits from the Premium Package option, adding $2,400. The Select Package ($950) includes ABS Pro and Ride Modes Pro\u2013enabling Dynamic Engine Brake Control and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC). In addition, it also includes cruise control, side-bag mounts, heated grips, and a factory-installed BMW GPS mount, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmwmotorcycles.com\/en\/individualisation\/accessories\/navigation-and-communication\/navigator-vi.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">compatible with the new Navigator VI system<\/a>. ABS Pro is BMW\u2019s intelligent system and processes data received from an IMU sensor to account for the bike\u2019s lean angle when calculating intervention levels, especially useful in wet and slippery conditions. Ride Modes Pro adds Dynamic and Dynamic Pro to the rider mode menu. These enable reduced and programmable dynamic EBC and ASC intervention, allowing the good and the brave to drift and pop wheelies with abandon.<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #7! --> <\/p>\n<p>The Premium Package includes all the features of the Select with the addition of Dynamic ESA, a tire pressure monitor, keyless ignition, quickshifter, adaptive headlights, and a center stand. The two standout elements are the adaptive headlights, additional LEDs that employ IMU lean angle data to activate, illuminating the road ahead through the turns, and Dynamic ESA, which actively controls the mono-shock, adjusting spring, and damping to suit conditions and road surface. It also works in tandem with the chosen rider mode to reflect riding style and road conditions, and enables the selection of preset options from the handlebar, adjusting preload for luggage and\/or a passenger.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #8! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sport-bike-styling-on-stilts\"> Sport Bike Styling On Stilts<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.469719350074%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act3.jpg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"1354\" height=\"900\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR matte black\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act3.jpg\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>At first glance, the F 900 XR seems a tad lofty for that 17-inch front wheel, and if loud and proud is your m.o., its understated styling may not be to your taste, but it won over our affections and is one of BMW Motorrad\u2019s more appealing designs. The XR&#8217;s windshield is reasonably effective, especially in the elevated position, and yet, retains its sporty character. The fairing adds adequate protection without making the bike appear bulky. The high-quality finishing is typically BMW and our test machine came in Triple Black, a $250 option that makes it look like something a villain might ride in an action movie. BMW also offers optional color-matched hard cases with a combined volume of 63 liters and a 30-liter top case, with remote locking when integrated with keyless ignition. Alternatively, there is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmwmotorcycles.com\/en\/models\/adventure\/f900xr\/individualization.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">a selection of soft luggage and many other accessories<\/a> to choose from.<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #9! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"riding-the-f-900-xr\"> Riding The F 900 XR<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.666666666667%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act5.jpg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"2100\" height=\"1400\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR adventure \" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-act5.jpg\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>Maybe as a result of stepping off the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/2022-kawasaki-zx-6r-review\/\">Ninja Six we just reviewed<\/a>, and straight on to the F 900 XR, but the handlebar feels particularly wide. Overall, the ergonomics are superb. With the broad bar in easy reach, an upright stance, and a comfortable bend at the knee. The body position is ideal for distance or the daily commute. The windshield deflects a reasonable portion of the wind, and the contoured seat offers excellent comfort and support. The growling exhaust note is a far cry from the buzzy F 800&#8217;s, and the improved power is notable under hard acceleration through the lower gears. Although, it does lose some luster in the higher ratios.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #10! --> <\/p>\n<p>It is only when you get out on an open winding road that you can fully appreciate the F 900 XR\u2019s most rewarding attribute, its extraordinary agility, which confounds expectations and belies its size and weight. The handling is comparable to the little <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/triumph-tiger-sport-660-offers-the-tridents-engine-in-a-middleweight-sport-tourer\/\">Triumph Tiger 660 we tested<\/a>. The chassis is wonderfully-balanced and the suspension assured. The ride feels planted and composed, even when the road is less than perfect. With Dynamic rider mode and ESA suspension selected, a firmer setup provides more feedback through the seat and has you heading into turns with increasing conviction. Before long, you\u2019ll be trying to outdo your best lean-angle on the meter displayed in the Sport view. We loved having a lean-angle meter but wondered if it might become a safety issue in the wrong hands (ours, for example).<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #11! --> <\/p>\n<p><span class=\"related-single\">RELATED: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/these-adventure-bikes-offer-the-best-value-for-money-in-2022\/\">These Adventure Bikes Offer The Best Value For Money In 2022<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>The XR does require an aggressive right hand to get the most out of the 895cc twin, the exciting part of the rev range is between 4,500 and 6,500 RPM, but when you\u2019re confidently flitting from side to side as you carve your way along your favorite twisty road, it\u2019s hard to fault. The Michelin Road 5\u2019s offer excellent grip. The Brembos provide plenty of progressive stopping power, and thanks to the ABS, EBC, and DTC systems, you get all the exhilarating drama without the crisis. On the highway, a mechanical lever raises the windshield just over two inches from its sporty position, making an appreciable difference at higher speeds. The BMW cruise control system, common across its touring lineup, has always done a solid job. Just as well, because it will probably be a while before their new adaptive cruise control system, currently only<a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/2022-bmw-r1250-rt-facts-features\/\"> available on the R 1250 RT,<\/a> finds its way onto the middleweights.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #12! --> <\/p>\n<p>BMW has given some thought to the pillion passengers destined to grace the XR\u2019s elevated rear seat. Rear grab handles are standard, and the pillion pegs are mounted on an extended bracket also attaching the rider\u2019s pegs, which makes them lower for a comfortable bend at the knee. The adaptive headlights add welcome illumination in the turns at night, providing an extra moment to react to wildlife or some other unseen danger, a feature that should be standard on all bikes fitted with an IMU sensor. After two weeks spent ripping around on the new XR, we would recommend adding the Select package, for anyone with serious touring aspirations, but if you can, go all-in and add the Premium package. The ESA System is worth it.<\/p>\n<p> <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #13! --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"f-is-for-fun\"> F Is For Fun<\/h2>\n<div class=\"body-img landscape\">\n<div class=\"responsive-img expandable img-article-item\" style=\"padding-bottom:70%\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-action1.jpg\" data-modal-id=\"single-image-modal\" data-modal-container-id=\"single-image-modal-container\" data-img-caption=\"&quot;Via: Ira Goodberg&quot;\">\n<figure><!--[if IE 9]&gt;--><br \/>\n <video><!--[if IE 9]&gt;<\/video>&lt;![endif]--><img width=\"2000\" height=\"1400\" class=\"lazyload\" alt=\"2022 BMW F 900 XR sport_tourer\" data-img-url=\"https:\/\/static1.hotcarsimages.com\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/2022-BMW-F-900-XR-action1.jpg\" \/><figcaption class=\"body-img-caption\">Via: Ira Goodberg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>There are some great options in the middleweight adventure\/sport-tourer category. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/this-is-why-the-yamaha-tracer-9-gt-is-the-most-versatile-touring-motorcycle\/\">Yamaha\u2019s Tracer 9 GT has received worthy attention<\/a>, but the F 900 XR compares extremely well, and from a daily use perspective, gives the Tracer a run for its money. The BMW does run out of zing once you\u2019ve wrung the throttle out, but if it is significantly more power you\u2019re after, there\u2019s an S 1000 XR for that. Most of us don\u2019t need 165 (or more) horses, and the middleweight category is fun because it&#8217;s approachable and allows more of us to experience a modern motorcycle&#8217;s full potential. The BMW F 900 XR is one of those rare bikes that immediately feels familiar and inspires confidence, giving you all the conviction you need to go thrash the heck out of it on the back-roads, on the milk run, or a multi-day tour.<\/p>\n<p><!-- Zone: character count repeatable. --><br \/>\n <!-- No winning ad found for zone: word count #14! -->        <\/p>\n<p>                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    <!-- No winning ad found for zone: above next button! --><\/p>\n<p>                                                <!-- No winning ad found for zone: below next button! --><br \/>\n        <!-- No winning ad found for zone: below sharing options! --><\/p>\n<p>About The Author<\/p>\n<div class=\"w-article-author-bio\">\n<div class=\"author-bio-img\">\n<p>                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\" - Bio 2.jpg?fit=crop&amp;w=100&amp;h=100\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"author-bio-text\">\n<p>            <strong class=\"bio-title\">Guy Pickrell<br \/>\n                                    <span class=\"amount\">(14 Articles Published)<\/span><br \/>\n                            <\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"bio-desc\">\n<p>Guy started riding motorcycles aged 21 and bought a Kawasaki ZX-6R the day after passing his road test. He was a sportbike enthusiast for many years until, in 2010, the Long Way Round television series inspired him to organize an adventure moto-tour. Since then, he has traveled thousands of miles across the US, Chile, Argentina, Canada, and the UK on various adventure bikes.<\/p>\n<p>He attended adventure bike school with the BMW Performance Academy, completed enduro training with Off-Road Skills in the UK, and recently brushed up his sportbike skills at the renowned California Superbike School. He spent a year in amateur endurance car racing and has attended Skip Barber and Dirtfish driving schools.<\/p>\n<p>Guy has previously been the Road Test Editor at Rider Magazine, and his stories were also published in Adventure Bike Rider, ADVMoto, and DRIVETRIBE. In 2020, Guy was one of three winners of Moto Guzzi&#8217;s &#8220;Spirit of the Eagle Rideaway&#8221; competition. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>                            <a class=\"bio-btn icon i-arrow-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hotcars.com\/author\/guy-pickrell\/\">More<br \/>\n                    From Guy Pickrell<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>                <!-- Zone: below the author. --><\/p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The BMW F 900 XR received its last major update in 2020, and we noted the new model\u2019s all-around capability in our first look review. We\u2019ve spent the last two weeks putting the 2022 model, and our words, to the test, dutifully slicing through the traffic on the milk run, the canyons on a Sunday [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14126","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14126","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14126"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14126\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14127,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14126\/revisions\/14127"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14126"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14126"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advwisdom.com\/a\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14126"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}