Fancy a BMW motorcycle, but don’t need a liter-class machine to make the ride interesting? The Bavarians have two new options for you. Joining the F family we have explored through the F 900 R and XR are the BMW F 450 R and F 450 RR. Mind that extra “R.” One is a naked roadster; the other arrives fully dressed for the racetrack.
The F 450 R takes its styling cues from the S 1000 R, with exposed mechanicals and a high, close-set handlebar for a more upright riding position. The RR looks to the S 1000 RR, complete with fairings, winglets, and clip-on handlebars. Its chassis geometry and tuning suit the sportier assignment, too. This isn’t simply a wardrobe change.
Same Displacement, Different Intentions
Despite the “450” badges, both use a 420 cc parallel-twin producing 48 hp at 8,750 rpm and 43 Nm (32 lb-ft) at 6,750 rpm. Some 80 percent of that torque is available at 3,000 rpm, so you won’t have to wring its neck whenever you want to get moving.
A six-speed gearbox sends power rearward through an X-ring chain. Both meet European A2 license requirements, with the R weighing 175 kg (386 lb) ready to ride and the RR adding just 2 kg (4.4 lb).
Each carries 14 liters (3.7 US gallons) of fuel, good for a claimed range exceeding 350 km (217 miles). Enough for a decent outing before the conversation turns to finding a gas station.
Small Bikes, Proper Hardware
Both roll on 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels wrapped in 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tires. A 43 mm KYB upside-down fork handles the front, while a KYB shock works with an aluminum swingarm behind. Braking comes courtesy of a 310 mm front disc with a four-piston Brembo caliper and a 240 mm rear disc.
Cornering ABS, traction control, heated grips, a 6.5-inch TFT display, and USB-C are standard. The RR gets Rain, Road, and Race modes, while the R substitutes Dynamic for Race.
Shift Assistant Pro lets you change gears without working the clutch lever. Add the optional Easy Ride Clutch, and the bike handles that part when pulling away and stopping, too. You still pick the gears; your left hand gets a break. Think of it as the motorcycle world’s version of a rally car’s sequential gearbox.
Price and Availability
The duo will not be available until June 2027, but we do have the MSRPs in Germany, so you can start prepping the dough. The F 450 R will start at €6,490 [DE], and the F 450 RR is expected to command €7,250 and up [DE].
Images: BMW Motorrad [DE].
