F650CS
From 001 to 2005, the BMW F650CS was a standard motorcycle made by BMW Motorrad. CS stood for city street. The CS was the third-generation in the F650 single series, after the 1993–2001 F650, and 2000–7 F650GS. It was known for its unique styling intended to attract new motorcyclists. It ⎼ like many BMW vehicles ⎼ tends to be a reliable vehicle, but if you’re experiencing difficulties with yours make sure you have a BMW F650CS service manual
with you to do the job right the first time around.
The F650CS was designed by American David Robb, designer of the R1100RT, K1200RS, R1200C, R1100S, and K1200LT. It was the result of a partnership betwix Aprilia and BMW. Many elements of the design, such as the colors used for the coordinated body panels, the Space Age instrument panel, and translucent passenger grab handles. It came in golden orange metallic, azure blue metallic, and beluga blue.
To help captivate the more buyers, the F650CS had the choice of unique colors for the side panels and a choice of two seat colors. This modularity was expanded to include the multi-use top storage compartment, which came with a diminutive removable soft bag or a hard plastic case which could have added an audio system with a CD player. The ignition key locked and unlocked each of the aforementioned compartment options. Moreover, the sound system was integrated with the speedometer so that it automatically increased the bass at low speed and increased the music volume at higher speeds.
While the F650CS was likened to the GS launched in 2000, it had several interesting amenities including a modular soft case baggage, single-sided swing arm, toothed belt drive, and a storage area in what would typically be the top tank of the bike. The fuel tank was placed under the rear half of the seat, with the fuel filler cap on the right-hand side of the rear of the bike.
A toothed belt drive was quieter, responsive, and cleaner than a chain drive, and requires less maintenance, but has greater power losses. Traditionally, BMW preferred shaft drive, but for the f650CS, they chose belt drive due to its advantages in weight and cost over the traditionally favored shaft drive. Moreover, it didn't require the frequent lubrication, cleaning, and adjustment of roller chain drive. Though belt drive does tend to have increased power loss when compared to chains, they don't suffer from chain lash.
The Rotax single-cylinder engine was underpowered compared to the liter-class superbikes that were available for comparable prices at the time. But when considered on its own, the bike's 44.2 hp was more than adequate for riding in an urban environment, and the 59.9 N⋅m (44.2 lb⋅ft) rear-wheel torque allowed for smooth acceleration. Testers found the handling light and quick. Acceleration was recorded at 0 to 60 mph in 4.72 to 5.47 seconds and 13.07 seconds to the ¼ mile at 99.9 mph. Braking 60 to 0 mph was 116.5 to 118.5 ft.
Initially, reaction among motorcycle critics was positive. However, in 2002, Motorcyclist magazine described the F650CS's sales as an ""unmitigated flop,"" which had dropped much like others in its class that consumers found too expensive. Three years later, in 2005, the F650CS production was ceases, and the F800 series was introduced in 2006. However if your F650CS is in need of TLC, grab yourself a BMW F650CS repair manual and get to work.
