BMW Motorrad is set to debut the new F 450 R in South Africa during the second quarter of 2027. This middleweight standard bike joins the F 450 GS in BMW’s lineup, featuring a road-oriented frame and design elements inspired by the larger S 1000 R. The chassis is engineered for straightforward handling and immediate rider feedback, distinguishing it from its adventure-oriented counterpart.
Technical specifications and suspension
The F 450 R utilizes a performance-oriented suspension system equipped with a 43mm KYB inverted front fork and a KYB monoshock rear absorber. The fork provides adjustable rebound and compression damping, while the rear shock allows adjustments for spring preload and rebound force. Five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels are fitted with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tires. The standard seat height stands at 790mm, while optional seats can adjust the riding position upward by 20mm or downward by 15mm.
The motorcycle is driven by a 420cc fuel-injected parallel-twin engine delivering 35kW at 8,750rpm and 43Nm at 6,750rpm. BMW notes that 80% of peak torque is accessible from 3,000rpm. The power unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox and an X-ring chain drive. Its claimed fuel consumption reaches 3.8 liters per 100km, enabling a range exceeding 350 kilometers. The high-mounted aluminum handlebar is positioned close to the rider, while the 14-liter fuel tank is contoured to support the knees during riding.
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Features and riding modes
Braking performance relies on a 310mm floating front disc paired with a Brembo four-piston monobloc caliper, and a 240mm rear disc with a ByBre single-piston caliper. Standard features include LED lighting and a 6.5-inch TFT instrument cluster presenting the BMW Pure Ride display. Models equipped with Riding Modes Pro offer additional Sport screens displaying traction control intervention data, braking force metrics, and lean angle indicators. The TFT system also supports smartphone connectivity for calls, music control, and navigation.
Standard equipment encompasses three riding modes, Rain, Road, and Dynamic, along with ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control, and engine drag torque control. M Sport variants include Riding Modes Pro, which introduces a customizable Dynamic Pro mode. Shift Assistant Pro, allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts, is standard on all models except the base version, though it can be added as an option. An optional Easy Ride Clutch automates clutch engagement based on engine speed, easing low-speed maneuvering and urban riding. When combined with Shift Assistant Pro, this system permits gear changes without the clutch lever, though manual operation remains possible.
