Automobile
BMW F 450 R breaks cover with 48hp twin-cylinder engine: Looks like a baby S 1000 R, but there’s more…
The new BMW F 450 R combines a 420cc parallel-twin engine with S 1000 R-inspired styling, a 6.5-inch TFT display, multiple riding modes and advanced electronic aids — but its India launch remains unconfirmed.
BMW Motorrad has expanded its middleweight motorcycle family with the unveiling of the new BMW F 450 R, a road-focused naked motorcycle aimed at riders looking for a combination of everyday usability, sporty performance and premium technology.
At the heart of the new roadster is a 420cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine producing 48hp, while its aggressive styling takes clear inspiration from the much more powerful BMW S 1000 R.
The motorcycle has a claimed ready-to-ride weight of 175kg and comes equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT display, three standard riding modes and a comprehensive package of electronic safety systems.
However, Indian enthusiasts will have to wait a little longer for the most important details, as BMW Motorrad has not yet announced an India launch date or price for the F 450 R.
420cc twin-cylinder engine produces 48hp
Powering the BMW F 450 R is a 420cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine.
BMW claims the engine develops 48hp at 8,750rpm and 43Nm of peak torque at 6,750rpm. It features a 135-degree crankpin offset along with a balance shaft.
According to BMW, around 80% of the available torque is accessible from 3,000rpm, which should help provide usable performance during everyday city riding as well as quicker acceleration on open roads.
Power is transmitted through a six-speed gearbox, with a chain handling the final drive.
More than 350km claimed range
BMW quotes fuel consumption of approximately 3.8 litres per 100km.
Combined with a 14-litre fuel tank, those figures theoretically translate to a riding range of more than 350km, although actual range will naturally vary depending on riding conditions, speed and riding style.
S 1000 R inspiration is hard to miss
Visually, the new F 450 R follows BMW’s roadster design philosophy and takes noticeable inspiration from the larger S 1000 R.
The aggressive front section, muscular bodywork and compact proportions give the smaller motorcycle a distinctly sporty appearance.
Underneath the bodywork sits a tubular steel space frame, with the engine functioning as a load-bearing component.
Suspension duties are handled by a 43mm KYB upside-down fork at the front, while the rear uses a double-sided aluminium swingarm paired with a KYB central spring strut. Sport suspension is also offered depending on the chosen variant.
175kg weight and 790mm seat height
The motorcycle rides on 17-inch cast-aluminium wheels, fitted with a 110/70 front tyre and 150/60 rear tyre.
BMW lists the F 450 R’s ready-to-ride weight at 175kg.
The standard seat height stands at 790mm, while optional 775mm and 810mm seats will allow riders to choose a setup better suited to their height and preferences.
6.5-inch TFT brings navigation and connectivity
Technology is another major part of the F 450 R package.
A 6.5-inch TFT instrument display comes as standard and supports navigation along with smartphone and music functionality.
BMW has also equipped the motorcycle with LED lighting and a USB-C charging socket.
Three riding modes Rain, Road and Dynamic are included as standard.
Those looking for additional adjustability can opt for Riding Modes Pro, which adds a Dynamic Pro setting and provides further control over the motorcycle’s riding characteristics.
BMW packs in several electronic safety features
The F 450 R also gets a substantial electronics package for its class.
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Standard systems include ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control, Dynamic Traction Control and Engine Drag Torque Control.
These electronic aids are designed to assist riders under braking, acceleration and changing road conditions, although they do not replace appropriate rider inputs and safe riding practices.
Four versions will be available
BMW plans to offer the F 450 R in four configurations Base, Exclusive, M Sport and M Sport with Innovation Package.
Equipment varies depending on the version.
Higher-spec variants can be equipped with features such as Shift Assistant Pro and Sport suspension, while the Innovation Package adds BMW’s Easy Ride Clutch.
Brembo brakes up front
Braking duties are handled by a 310mm front disc paired with a Brembo four-piston monobloc caliper.
At the rear, the motorcycle gets a 240mm disc with a ByBre single-piston caliper.
Combined with ABS Pro and the motorcycle’s other electronic aids, the setup underlines the sporty positioning of the new roadster.
But when will the BMW F 450 R launch in India?
That remains the big unanswered question.
BMW Motorrad has not announced the F 450 R’s India launch timeline or pricing yet.
If the motorcycle eventually reaches Indian showrooms, its price will play a crucial role in determining how it competes in the increasingly crowded 400-450cc performance motorcycle segment.
For now, though, the formula certainly looks interesting: 48hp, twin-cylinder performance, 175kg ready-to-ride weight, premium electronics and styling inspired by the S 1000 R all packed into BMW’s new middleweight roadster.
