There, I said it, and I'm surprised to say it. Granted its detuned engine produces 10 horsepower less than the BMW F800GS, but to offset that the BMW F800GS is six kilo's lighter. When you ride it, it seems to have the same sort of acceleration as the BMW F800GS (despite slightly taller gearing), but more importantly for me, it feels more like a road going motorcycle.

Of course you can still use it off road, but it's not as pitchy as the BMW F800GS. The more conventionally sized 19”cast front wheel helps. Chuck the BMW F800GS on its side and it leaves you a little unsure of the front, where the BMW F650GS doesn't make you think at all (apart from the limits of the tires). In fact I had more fun buzzing along on the BMW F650GS in one hour than I did all day on the BMW F800GS. It put me in the same from of mind as when I used to chase my friend on his 125cc two-stroke. You really feel you're master of the motorcycle, and even though you're wringing its neck, you not going scarily fast.

Of course it probably shouldn't be this way. BMW is aiming this motorcycle below the BMW F800GS. Actually, the kept mentioning first time big bikers and ladies when they mentioned the F650GS. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't choose the BMW F650GS over a more conventional sportsbike it I could only chose one motorcycle, but it's a really well put together, and provides safe entertainment.