Opinion of the F650CS?

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

I'm thinking about getting a F650CS (or Scarver, as BMW would like us to call it...) - has anyone had a go on one and what did you think? I don't mean the styling, because that's down to personal opinion and since I'm a bit odd, I like it.

I know the seat is relatively low, but just how low? I'm 6 feet tall and mostly legs and I don't want to be squished.

I also know it's no flying machine (only 50bhp) but then I don't want something mental. Do you think it will be fast enough to keep my interest, at least for while? I have to do a few long distance (motorway + dual carriageway) runs but I mostly buzz around the Peaks.

Thumbs Up

to anyone who can give me some feedback Smile

____________________
Monster m600
Web, blog, Bikepics page
An optimist will tell you the glass is half full. The pessimist, half empty. The engineer will tell you the glass is twice the size it needs to be.

Zoffo · Brolly Dolly Joined: 01 Feb 2005 Karma :

Typical BMW, ugly as sin, over priced, but will ride well and be built to last.
If they ever learn to make esthetically pleasing machines the Japs had better watch out
____________________
https://hyperbikes.forumsplace.com/

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

tatters · Exxon Valdez Joined: 05 Jan 2004 Karma :

BMW,s reilable, shaft drive and will last forever, but are very boring bikes.
____________________
Past:NRG50,AF1125(x2),NSR125RR,ZZR250,CX500,VFR400,KR1S,ZZR600(x2),CB400N,YZF1000(x2),KH125,Z200,FX400R,CBR954RR(x2)GPZ500S,GT550,VFR750F(x2),RD350N,XR650R,CBR600F,CB250,KDX250,YZF750R,CRM250,400EXC,KLR650,TTR600RE,DR350S,R100GSPD,RGV250,VMAX1200,DL650,KZ750 Present:G650XC,C12,CRF450X,1190ADV

mr.z · World Chat Champion Joined: 04 Feb 2004 Karma :

As far as i know its a chain drive, belt drive versions were made also... (cs i think is belt driven, gs is chain driven, not 100% sure tho)

In the peaks it will own, perfect for twisty roads huge fun to be had, city roads will be no probelm either... on the motorway it will suck, it will do it but not as well as a "normal" road bike.. when you say long distance how far are you looking at in one go?

They will do 90, cruse at 80ish, which is enough if you just want to get there...

They are quite pricey however when you go to sell it (presumeing nothing bad happens) you'll be able to sell it on, bmws carry a hefty second hand price chances are you'll be able to sell it for the same you paid, which you dont get on many bikes...

Work out how much millage you are going to be doing on which roads and then decide imo, also get a test ride, you may hate it, you may love it, but its better to find out before you spend the money!
____________________
>RidingSkills<->Tech Tips<->MyBikes<

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

mchaggis · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2004 Karma :

Can you say comfortable? Wonderfully so. I presume the tank is under the seat, so the weight should be easy to manage. The suspension should be great for town work too. Assuming the seat is the same (height) as the 650 ST, you should be fine. They have quality through and through. I can't remember any painted components other than plastics on my mum's, everything is powder coated or made of stainless.
____________________
I must not be a troll...
Mmmm, Guinness
Discovering the delights of Hammerite and a 3/4" brush. Very Happy

Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :

I would try the CS first as at 6 foot you might find it a bit cramped, I had one as a loaner when my bike was in for service and it wasn't comfiest bike due to the seat being low (I am 6'2" tall).

It may be worth considering the GS instead but they are chain drive. Both are very good and reliable bikes.

Specs....

F650CS

F650GS
____________________
Andy Sez....
F.Y.Y.F.F.

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

Yeah, the seat height does worry me a bit. I was interested to see on that specs page that a higher than standard seat is available - may come in handy (I only thought a lowered seat was available).

I'm not keen on the GS to be honest. I think I prefer the styling and extra practicality of the CS.
____________________
Monster m600
Web, blog, Bikepics page
An optimist will tell you the glass is half full. The pessimist, half empty. The engineer will tell you the glass is twice the size it needs to be.

Finglonga · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Jul 2004 Karma :

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

Ohhhh yes. How geeky is that?! Very Happy

*crawls back in his corner*
____________________
Monster m600
Web, blog, Bikepics page
An optimist will tell you the glass is half full. The pessimist, half empty. The engineer will tell you the glass is twice the size it needs to be.

beach · L Plate Warrior Joined: 18 Jul 2005 Karma :

What did you decide to do? I'm thinking about getting one myself but have the same concerns. I found a 2003 model with very low mileage for about $7,000 (shipped).

impaler · Crazy Courier Joined: 04 Sep 2004 Karma :

Erm, I had a slight change of plan... see my signature... Smile

____________________
Monster m600
Web, blog, Bikepics page
An optimist will tell you the glass is half full. The pessimist, half empty. The engineer will tell you the glass is twice the size it needs to be.

beach · L Plate Warrior Joined: 18 Jul 2005 Karma :

Sorry about that, should have looked closer.

I found a used "Scarver" and I am curious what everyone thinks about the deal. Its a 2003 model with ABS, 1,700 miles, and a GIVI topcase for $6,700 USD... also. it will take about $550 to ship it. I can get a new one here at my local BMW dealer for $10K but that does not include tax, etc. Just not sure what to do... Neutral

-Beach

ratcliffe · Scooby Slapper Joined: 19 May 2004 Karma :

I can answer that, as I own one and have done nearly 18000 miles on it so far. It is a fantastic bike. Very comfortable, thumps along forever (so far) I've even taken it on a trackday which was fun, albeit with a lack of top speed along the straight Very Happy

It is a very reliable, economic bike which is pretty cheap to insure, and the very light front end makes it a scream if you want to play on the twisties.
I can't help you with the pricing for a Scarver in the USA as I don't know how prices are over there. But as a bike I would heartily recommend it. Just make sure you get a buttpad for it, if you intend to do too many long journeys, as the seat is a little thin. Thats the only negative point I've found on it.

Milo · World Chat Champion Joined: 08 Feb 2002 Karma :

I test drove one and it was great fun, though it seemed to run out of revs very quickly.
Was fun, comfy and I personally love the look of it. I'm not a fan of chain drives either so the belt was a big plus in my book.

Overprived though, so I'm unlikely to ever have one.
____________________
Shaft drives rule. Razz