BMW F 800 GS - ready for your adventure
No question, the BMW F800 GS is a great touring bike, but anyone who wants to embark on an extreme journey may want to reinforce the twin for a real adventure.Since the launch of the BMW F800 GS three years ago, the bike has made its mark in the community of bike travellers. Even long-time African Twin fans already gaze longingly at the Bavarian twin. The F has something going for it that Honda held back from fans in the legendary desert bike – more power.
The fact that the Bavarian twin is a few pounds lighter adds to its positive characteristics. But the 800 was missing a certain something that would eventually win an adventurer’s heart: it’s fuel range. The original tank capacity of 4.2 gal (16 litres) may be sufficient for urban rides, as it’s good for about 225 miles (362km), but it’s not quite enough for rides far from civilization.
A rugged pannier system was missing and the original skidplate clearly had its limits once you’re off the road.
It wasn’t long before the need for action was realised in the Black Forest. Within one year Touratech got the Desierto F going, the adventure version of the F800.
A large tank, a fairing, a pannier system and a strong skidplate are the essentials of the re-modeling. An important aspect was to increase the fuel range without making the polymaide tank look chunky. With the additional tank the enduro bike can cover distances well over 400 miles (645km) without having to refill.
Thanks to these modifications the BMW transforms into a long-haul adventure-touring bike. The original chassis already deals well with most bumps in the road. The progressive Hyperpro suspension fork, as well as the Ohlins shock adapted to the F 800, are great for extreme excursions.
Touratech’s re-modeling makes the F800 a first class travel bike.
Headlight Guard
When riding off-road it’s a good idea to protect your bike from rocks and other dangers. Touratech has come up with numerous protective accessories for the F800, like this headlight guard, to effectively prevent the impact of even the biggest rocks.
It consists of a strong metal grid with welded support framework, and is completely powder-coated. Assembly is as straightforward as you would think, and it is bolted directly to the headlight bracket of your BMW. This part is recommended for off-road use.
Article number 048-0255
BMW Engine Guard Toolbox
There are things you won’t need often, but that are nevertheless essential. A tyre repair kit and tyre levers, for instance, should go on tour with you. Just in case. The engine guard toolbox is a perfect place to carry tools or heavy items low. It’s easy to access and safe for storage. The box is made of 2mm anodised aluminium and mounts onto the original BMW engine guard. A lock makes its valuable contents theft-proof. The lid can be secured with two quick release clamps.
Article number 048-0165
Tank Bag “High End”
This tank bag is ideal for storing small bits and pieces that you need to have at your fingertips. Its standard capacity of about 14 litres expands quickly and easily to about 20 litres. It was designed especially for the F800.
There are numerous options for storage. There’s a small pocket on the left for a multi-tool. The rubber strap on the right comes in handy when you quickly need to stow your gloves. The large map pocket provides a good geographic overview without having to refold the map. It’s fixed to the top of the tank bag with Velcro. Fitting the tank bag is easy with the two buckles at the front and straps at the back. A strong carrying handle and two straps for converting the tank bag into a rucksack are also included.
Article number 055-1164
Xeon (HID) Headlights
Understandably, night time riding isn’t very popular with most bikers. It’s not that safe. Sometimes, however, there’s no avoiding it and in that case it’s a good idea to have enough light. The Xenon headlights turn night into day. Although they require a much smaller amount of power than conventional Halogen headlights, their output is much greater. Our Xenon headlights increase the riding safety considerably at twilight and even more in the dark. They are supplied with all attachment parts and detailed instructions. In order to survive off-road excursions, all Xenon control units are protected against strong vibrations.
The auxiliary lights come in two versions: as fog headlights and also as Xenon lights.
Fog Lights (left) 048-0262
Xenon Lights (left) 048-0273
Fuel Tank
Although it was quite a challenge to increase the F800’s total volume to 9.5 gallons (36 litres), the developers in Niedereschach, Germany, succeeded. In addition to the original 4.2 gallons (16 litre) under the seat, another 5.3 gallons (21 litres) of fuel were placed between the handlebars and the seat.
This second tank, that installs in the normal motorcycle tank position, is made of virtually indestructible Polyamide Nylon. It integrates well into the design of the F800 and if one didn’t know better, it could be mistaken for standard equipment. The tank can be painted to further personalise the look.
The new total volume of 9.5 gallons (36+ litres) provides a range of 400+ miles (645km). By installing this second fuel tank the F800 GS transforms into a true long-distance bike that will overcome a dry spell without running out of fuel.
Article numbers:
048-0382 (dark magnesium)
Desierto 3 Fairing
This screen takes care of your comfort on long rides. Unlike the original equipment, Touratech’s weather protection makes your ride much more enjoyable. The developers succeeded in combining shapely design with utility.
On one hand, the Desierto 3 perfectly rounds off the overall picture of the F800, and on the other hand the high screen, with its adjustability, optimally protects from head wind, thus ensuring a more comfortable ride with less fatigue for long days in the saddle.
Article number 048-1002
Pannier System
For a long-haul adventure ride, you need to be able to carry a load on your bike. This is where the ZEGA PRO, the second generation of the legendary Touratech panniers, come into play. They are 100% made in Germany from 1.5mm aluminium. The lid and bottom of the case are welded on the edge to increase stability, making them the best choice for extreme tours.
The Zega Pro comes in three different sizes: 31, 38 and 45 litres and by request, also with adonised finish. Check out our entire Zega Pro product line. There are many more accessories.
Article number 052-3101(Zega Pro)
Luggage Rack Aluminum
Two cases alone wouldn’t provide enough storage space for a big trip. Anyone who plans to be on the road for longer can’t help but strap one or two dry bags onto the rear. The aluminum luggage rack offers many options for storing luggage of almost any shape and size. Thanks to the many slits and recesses you can safely attach your belongings to your bike. With this generously-sized platform, even large items can be secured with ease.
Article number 048-0101
The luggage rack is also available as an even stronger stainless-steel construction
Article number 048-0104
Off-Road Passenger Footpegs
We at Touratech take care of the pillion rider, too. Riding on the back of a bike in difficult terrain isn’t always easy. When it’s wet, the rubber of the original foot-pegs can get slippery. Studded rear foot-pegs make things right. The firm grip puts an end to the passenger’s worry about riding boots slipping off. Thanks to the wider foot base, long distances can be covered comfortably.
A special mechanism keeps them folded up when they are not required. Made of high-quality stainless steel.
Article number 048-0250