| BMW's single cylinder F650
has been in for an upgrade and the new CS model Funduro offers increased
versatility and many changes. Only the engine and transmission remain the same as previously but more attractions for the commuter have been added in to the design. Even though the Rotax engine is internally unchanged small modifications to the exhaust and airbox have resulted in a marginal performance increase. However some big changes have been made in the way the drive is transferred to the rear wheel. The new F650CS is the first motorcycle in the world to utilise a single sided swingarm in conjunction with a toothed belt drive system. BMW claim that the belt will have at least double the life of a conventional chain, I don't know about that but I must admit that the lack of a need for lubrication is a definite bonus. Of course the belt would not withstand the rigours of off road use so the belt system will only be used on the street focussed CS model while the F650GS will retain a conventional chain drive.  A new and innovative
storage system is now offered and is nothing like the hard luggage we have
come to expect from BMW. As the fuel tank resides under the seat there is
a useful void where the tank otherwise would be, BMW have used this space
to great advantage. A recess can hold optional accessories which include
the standard 12 litre soft bag, a larger front bag, a hard case lockable
system or even a stereo system! For carrying big loads BMW offer a large
rear mounting soft luggage system that can swallow up to 62 litres of
gear.The 17-inch three-spoke cast aluminium wheels finished in silver paint are also a new addition to the F650. The brake disc and belt drive sprocket are both housed on the right-hand side. Like the F 650 GS, the F 650 CS comes
with a single-disc brake at the front measuring 300 mm in diameter with a
two-piston floating caliper and sintered metal brake linings. Brake power
at the rear is also provided by a single-disc brake, in this case
measuring 240 mm in diameter. ABS is an optional extra on the F650CS. |
