BMW Motorrad has introduced the new F 450 R, a middleweight naked motorcycle designed to offer a more road-focused setup compared to its adventure-oriented sibling, the F 450 GS. The F 450 R features styling inspired by BMW's larger S 1000 R model. Its sport suspension setup includes a 43mm KYB upside-down front fork and a KYB central rear shock absorber, allowing for adjustable rebound and compression.
The F 450 R is powered by a 420cc fuel-injected parallel-twin engine, producing 35kW at 8,750rpm and 43Nm at 6,750rpm. According to BMW, 80% of the engine's maximum torque is available from 3,000rpm. The motorcycle has a claimed fuel consumption of 3.8 l /100km, giving it a claimed range of more than 350km. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox that drives the rear wheel via an X-ring chain.
The F 450 R features a range of innovative technologies, including Shift Assistant Pro, which allows clutchless up- and downshifts. This feature is standard on most models, but can be specified as an option for the base version. An optional Easy Ride Clutch automatically operates the clutch according to engine speed, making low-speed riding and manoeuvring easier. The motorcycle also comes with three riding modes — Rain, Road and Dynamic — as well as ABS Pro and Dynamic Traction Control.
In terms of braking, the F 450 R features a 310mm floating front disc with a Brembo four-piston monobloc calliper, and a 240mm disc with a ByBre single-piston calliper at the rear. The motorcycle also features a range of safety features, including Dynamic Brake Control and engine drag torque control. ABS Pro allows ABS intervention while the motorcycle is leaned over.
The F 450 R comes equipped with LED lighting and a 6.5-inch TFT instrument display, offering BMW's Pure Ride screen. Models fitted with Riding Modes Pro gain additional Sport screens showing information such as traction control intervention and lean angle. The TFT system can also be used for phone calls, music, and navigation when connected to a compatible smartphone.
The BMW F 450 R will be offered in four variants, including the base model finished in Cosmic Black, and the Exclusive version with Shift Assistant Pro and Sport Suspension. The M Sport and M Sport with Innovation Package variants are finished in Snaefell White/M Motorsport colours and include Riding Modes Pro and Shift Assistant Pro. The Innovation Package adds the Easy Ride Clutch.
The BMW F 450 R is set to launch in South Africa in the second quarter of 2027, with pricing to be announced closer to the time. The motorcycle is expected to offer a new level of performance and innovation in the middleweight naked segment.
Key points
- The F 450 R features a 420cc fuel-injected parallel-twin engine producing 35kW at 8,750rpm and 43Nm at 6,750rpm.
- The motorcycle comes with a range of innovative technologies, including Shift Assistant Pro and Easy Ride Clutch.
- The BMW F 450 R will be offered in four variants, with pricing to be announced closer to the launch date.
