800gs

[afhrnfa1]

Today I learned that the new 800 GS is not coming to the states until maybe September 2008. WHY? weak dollar!!!!!!!!!:dunno

[Motorradfahrer]

Visited my dealer to make sure that he ordered my F800GS with ABS. To my dismay I relinquished the order because the bikes will not show up in dealer show rooms until September at the latest. I was planning on doing the Canadian maritimes including Labrador this summer on this new model. BMWNA has decided not to ship the bikes until sometime in the fall of 2008 due to the tremendous demand in Europe and the US. High demand in the US seems to cause BMWNA to lose too much money due to the weak dollar/Euro. I'll be looking at a R1200GS instead. Can anyone dispell this dealer announcement from BMWNA? Call your dealers and verify.:scratch :dunno

[afhrnfa1]

What you have heard is true the 800 GS will not be here until Sept

[Beemerdons]

As we speak, I have a call into good guy David Slepak at BMW Motorcycles of Scottsdale. He faithfully gave me the party line information that BMWNA was giving him on November 8 when I placed my $500 deposit for a new BMW F800GS.

I was told two months ago NOT to expect my F800GS in March, but to realistically expect delivery of my new motorrad in April, or perhaps May at the very latest.

Based upon the information, dutifully delivered by David as told to him by BMWNA, I've planned a month long expedition thru Baja California and down to Guatemala.

I'd a nice opportunity to sell my Kawasaki KLR650 to a co-worker at my company.

So, I have a fully planned out four week trip with no dual sport bike to ride it on!

When David contacts me on my cell phone, I will immediately respond to this site!

[Beemerdons]

This situation is exactly as afhrnfa1 and Motorradfahrer have described. BMWNA has fully told their F800GS "waiters" to pound sand and then go bark up a tree!

I will still have David and his dealership service my remaining BMW's, but after 40 years and almost 500K miles worth of riding BMW I doubt if I will ever buy another.

I intend to buy a KTM LC4 640 Adventure for my summer trip; to Hell with BMWNA!

[henzilla]

Have order for first gray one here,#2 on list... heard that same thing today from dealer...was supposed to be here in March , now September. Who knows?:scratch

[PAULBACH]

Today I learned that the new 800 GS is not coming to the states until maybe September 2008. WHY? weak dollar!!!!!!!!!:dunno

Canada is just up the road. Their's come in March 8th.

[Polarbear]

A lot of bang for the buck and quite a few changes as well:). At 6 grand, these can be had at two for one vs. the new F800GS! The new KLR650 is nice looking indeed. No F650 twins coming here either, so go figure. BMW is well behind the curve on this one. Everybody else, all over the world has NO problem shipping '08's over here and have had theirs here for "months" already. I have to go test ride the new '08 KLR to see how good it might be! Its not the KLR we knew, they say....improvements all around:). The KLR is 21 years in the making and the no. 1 in the world, dual sport bike sales, might make for another look by me. :usa Randy13233

[adsinger]

I'm cancelling my order (I was #1 at ny dealer).

I'm going to take a hard look at the Kawi Versys. I can buy a new KLX with the leftover funds. Also, I expect that by September Triumph will have 675 Tiger.

At least I didn't sell my R1200GS yet.

alan.

[Visian]

hey all... moved a thread on the same topic from the clubhouse to here, and then merged the two threads.

ian

forum liaison

[MCMXCIVRS]

Canada is just up the road. Their's come in March 8th.


Not according to the dealer and BMW reps I spoke to at the show last weekend. None there on display because they are not coming to Canada as an 08 model now. They will be here in September (or later) as 09 models.

[merkinmuffley]

I watch the value of the dollar with some interest - and I hate to tell you, but it's likely to get much worse before it improves. If the Fed cuts the rates again, which they have said they're going to do - the dollar will have tremendous pressure on it and is expected to go much lower relative to other currencies.
I don't know what BMW is waiting for, but if they're hoping for a stronger dollar it could be a very long wait.

[bikerfish1100]

fwiw- neither the Versys nor the new KLR look to be nearly as off-road capable as the 800GS. I have a '99 KLR, and am seriously considering upgrading it to the GS- (more power, lighter weight, more dirt oriented, better components, etc). sounds like I'll just have to push my time frame back a bit. oh well.

[Buzzez]

This situation is exactly as afhrnfa1 and Motorradfahrer have described. BMWNA has fully told their F800GS "waiters" to pound sand and then go bark up a tree!

I will still have David and his dealership service my remaining BMW's, but after 40 years and almost 500K miles worth of riding BMW I doubt if I will ever buy another.

I intend to buy a KTM LC4 640 Adventure for my summer trip; to Hell with BMWNA!


The lc4 is as smooth as a paint shaker. Really, it's only good for local riding.
After about 400 miles you're going to want to turn around and go home...

[dlearl476]

I intend to buy a KTM LC4 640 Adventure for my summer trip; to Hell with BMWNA!

That'll show 'em. My guess is he called one of the three people on the waiting list as soon as he hung up the phone.

[Beemerdons]

Of the six people that had placed deposits at BMW of Scottsdale all but two have asked for, and gotten, their $500 deposits back. I had an opportunity to talk to another "waiter" and he is also going with another brand; probably Kawasaki.

I do want to put in another solid plug for Good Guy Dealer David Slepak of BMW of Scottsdale. David stepped up to the plate without even being asked to and he returned my money with absolutely no hassle. What has him baffled is BMW has not given him anything in writing to tell disgruntled customers what is going on.

Buzzez: You Sir, on the other hand, definitely do know what you are talking about.

I went to my own clubs forum under the GS section and asked my AZ Beemers friends for help in finding another dual sport, other than BMW, for myself by May.

Two KTM owners in AZ Beemers used your exact phrase in describing their LC4 "as smooth as a paint shaker." They both, and others, recommended waiting for the new and improved 690 Adventure that is in the pipeline. But I'm still waiting.

A lot of my AZB friends recommended the Honda XR650, but with the "L" street kit installed before I purchase it, so I can get it through Arizona MVD as street legal.

A large number of www.azbeemers.org/forum recommended the new and improved 2008 Kawasaki KLR 650. However, that is just a lateral move; since until last Sunday I had a 2006 Kawi KLR 650 sitting here, until it was sold!

Isn't this a real taste of irony. If the announcement here on www.bmwmoa.org had come out last week, I would have squelched the sale of the KLR to my friend.

The largest response from my Beemer Buddies is to find a good used R100GS to tide me over until my summer exploration trip is completed. Since I started out forty years ago on a R60/2, going back to an Airhead is not the end of the world.

However, I then am going back to twenty year old technology and I am still dealing with the weight issue. After my heart attack in 2005 and now hitting 60, I just don't want to fight the weight of a RGS down the Baja West Side Highway!

Oh well, I still have 5 months left to find a suitable dual sport. Guys, wish me luck!

[PAULBACH]

This is a duplicate of a post from another F800GS thread. Complaining here will accomplish little, if anything, of value. Here is one suggestion of what to do:

The Customers Communication number at BMW is:
1-800-831-1117

Better yet, send a letter to:

Corporate Communication
BMW Motorrad USA
PO Box 1227
Westwood, NJ 07675

But, complaining here will not get us any soup or motorcycles.

And politeness will go much further. If someone comes up with a nice draft letter to share why not post it here for others us to copy and paste?

[podsobinski]

Sometimes it just feels good to get it off our chest and vent to other people and find out that other people feel the way we do. Comfort in numbers and re-affirm what we are all thinking. . .then send a letter and call. My old war horse 02 GS will be replaces next year around this time and these comments will help me decide on a replacement.

Gpodzo

[Beemerdons]

Brother Paul, You and I've met before at BMW Rallies and I want to preface my post saying that you are the best and you have done so much for Owners News!

However, as a forty year purchaser of BMW Products and Services; I now intend to simply let my wallet do the talking in regards to BMW Motorrad AG and BMWNA.

Besides "Ingrid" a 2005 R1150RT, I also own "Mi Mexico Mule", my 1996 R1100GS.

I bought my single spark GS in October of 1995 and by the next summer I, along with hundreds of others, wrote to both BMW Motorrad in Germany and BMWNA regarding the fact that my R1100GS always "surged" at constant throttle settings.

I am one of the "fortunate" few that received the stock letter back that I did not know how to properly operate my GS. At that point in time I had 375,000 miles in the seat of BMW Boxer Twins. I now have 500,000 miles on Boxer Twins and guess what? Ingrid with her twin plugs does not surge, and, El Mule still surges.

So, my personal experience with writing to BMW is akin to teaching a pig how to sing: It's a complete waste of your time and it annoys the living hell out of the pig!

[PAULBACH]

Brother Paul, You and I've met before at BMW Rallies and I want to preface my post saying that you are the best and you have done so much for Owners News!

However, as a forty year purchaser of BMW Products and Services; I now intend to simply let my wallet do the talking in regards to BMW Motorrad AG and BMWNA.

Besides "Ingrid" a 2005 R1150RT, I also own "Mi Mexico Mule", my 1996 R1100GS.

I bought my single spark GS in October of 1995 and by the next summer I, along with hundreds of others, wrote to both BMW Motorrad in Germany and BMWNA regarding the fact that my R1100GS always "surged" at constant throttle settings.

I am one of the "fortunate" few that received the stock letter back that I did not know how to properly operate my GS. At that point in time I had 375,000 miles in the seat of BMW Boxer Twins. I now have 500,000 miles on Boxer Twins and guess what? Ingrid with her twin plugs does not surge, and, El Mule still surges.

So, my personal experience with writing to BMW is akin to teaching a pig how to sing: It's a complete waste of your time and it annoys the living hell out of the pig!

I agree - I would let my wallet do the walking if I were buying one of these machines.

But I hate to let the pig off of the spit without a bit of displeasure shown. BMWNA had printed up posters with the March 8th date. They quoted March 8th as release date as recently as December 28th in NYC.

Dealers had taken deposits based on the word of BMWNA.

Very much torn on this one. Should corporate leaders be given a pass? :scratch

In physics for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Does the same apply in human relations?

[merkinmuffley]

So, my personal experience with writing to BMW is akin to teaching a pig how to sing: It's a complete waste of your time and it annoys the living hell out of the pig!

If you're going to take the time to write them - be sure to do it on some of that special paper that comes on a 2 ply roll. That way, your letter can be used for something constructive once it arrives. BMWNA will appreciate it.

[ultracyclist]

I just talked to my local dealer...get ready for this:

1.) They do not expect to have any F800gs's until year end.

2.) There will not be an 800gs at the Chicago International Motorcycle Show.:scratch

3.) My local dealer is in a very unhappy place right now.

I wonder if the 800gs will be in Canada?:dunno

[lensuz]

I was one of those on the delivery list, numero uno at my dealer, with aspirations of spring riding through the hills of New Mexico and Colorado...not to mention Utah. I even have a bunch of stickers advertising “Unstoppable 3.08.08" relating to the much anticipated delivery date of the 800GS. Yes, I even signed up for the give-away contest were the winner would be announced in a live Web broadcast. That’s me, hook, line and sinker. Now it sounds like all the excitement and anticipation is the result of a cruel hoax. Of course I have the proper perspective...it’s only a motorcycle and not the end of the world. But I can’t seem to shake the feeling of being had. Oh, well. :violin

[Motorradfahrer]

lensuz....I have the same bunch of stickers advertising “Unstoppable 3.08.08", relating to the much anticipated delivery date of the 800GS", but come to think, if these placards were printed in Germany by BMW then the dates are correct for August delivery. You see in the US we indicate our dates in this order: month/day/ year while in Germany it is: day/month/year. So the dates on the stickers is 3.08.08 with periods(.) indicated. This is German, so the August dates for delivery is correct. No error on BMWNA's part, more of dealer and our misreading??:german

[Beemerdons]

http://unstoppable.bmwmotorcyclesus.com/

I lived in Augsburg, Germany for two years courtesy of my Uncle Sam and thanks to six years of German from St. John's Lutheran Parochial School in Orange, California: Ich spreche Deutsche. And you are so absolutely correct about the European date orientation and indications! However, the dates on everything that BMWNA has produced related to the Worldwide Unstoppable Open House is Events being on March 8, 2008; whether it is in Berlin, Paris or Scottsdale, Arizona.

I'm on the electronic mailing lists of the three Arizona BMW dealers: Mister John Cartwright of Iron Horse BMW in Tucson, Rick Hall of Victory BMW in Chandler and David Slepak of BMW Motorcycles of Scottsdale. Every one of the dealers got the same info from BMWNA / Motorrad AG and sent them out to all of their customers!

Unbelievably, David has still not received anything in writing about what he is supposed to be doing on March 8 for customers! So he still has everything in the works, music-food-seminars-raffles-Hootergirls, for a bike that won't even be there

What's truly amazing is the link above is still on the BMWNA web site as I write this. One part of their organization is shutting down deliveries of the F800GS to North America, while simultaneously the advertising department is still promoting!

I also have a half dozen of the stickers, but I also have the large poster and it is printed here in Estados Unidos. I think that ultracyclist is correct, nobody in NA is going to see a F800GS until December. My bet is they will now ask $3K more for it.

My Fellow F800GS "Waiters": The comments of "cruel hoax" and "being had" from lensuz really struck a nerve with me. I have accepted that PAULBACH is right, BMWNA is not getting to get off the spit without my expressing my displeasure.

As soon as possible I am going to draft a nice and polite letter of complaint to NA.

One thing is for sure, when we are all at Gillette, Wyoming together this summer for the BMWMOA International Rally you will certainly be able to pick out and spot Beemerdon's bike parked at the CamPlex: It will be the KTM 690 Adventure with the Arizona license plate and the AZ Beemers license plate ring; and adorned with "Unstoppable 3.08.08" stickers on the panniers, tank, windshield and fender.

[podsobinski]

Sounds like a good idea for the national rally. Maybe you'll find me on a V-Strom or I am waiting for that Buell Ulysses to put the Rotex engine in it.

gpodzo

[Beemerdons]

gpodzo: Would you like to be my co-conspirator in a movement to have all of the F800GS "Waiters" show up on their "other" new dual sport machinery at Gillette with "3.08.08"? Sometimes you just have to laugh; otherwise, you would cry! Ha!

[ultracyclist]

I do not blame you at all for wanting to vote with your dollar. Ever since my Chevrolet Vega blew up at 29k miles, I swore that I would never own another GM car.

I think this situation is unforgivable. Period.

(small rant follows): At the 2008 Chicago I had planned on throwing a leg over the F800gs. I am sure many others had that same idea. Now we learn that there will not be an F800gs at any of the shows. I think this is a terrible betrayal given all that has happened.

How on Earth will BMW ever get more market share if it does crazy stuff like this?

After my Vega, I bought a Toyota. I then wrote a letter to the VP at Chevrolet who said that my engine had "normal wear and tear", and I said "good-bye".

(small rant ended)

Thank you.

[SheRidesABeemer]

So far no one has nominated this bike for this year's Motorcycle Bloggers International (http://www.mbiweb.org/2008/nomlist.html)awards. I don't know enough about it...if you do, maybe you can add it, or any other BMW...as there are NONE on the list yet! :dunno

[Beemerdons]

Since I'm also a member of www.fjrforum.com and Harley Owners Group I've a unique perspective from where I can safely say that BMW owner/enthusiasts are the most brand loyal customer/consumers that have ever existed in motorcycling!

And yet it seems that every time that you turn around BMWNA and BMW Motorrad AG both always seem to conspire to dump on we individuals as hard as they can!!

At both of the other clubs that I belong to, a stunt like this would have everyone up in arms. But even with the final drive fiascoes, the tranny troubles, the spline screw-ups, the sorry surging, and now the failure to deliver on deposited product that we would finally rise up and tell BMWNA and Motorrad to screw themselves!

I've just reached a point after 40 years that I'm not sending any money to Munich!

[ultracyclist]

May I suggest that BMW at least have the 800gs at the motorcycle shows. I am sure that you (we) could come up with at least 3 hard hitting reasons to do this.

Now would be good time to over-night that letter to the Fatherland.

Does anyone know what the RA is doing?

[erickson9502]

I do not blame you at all for wanting to vote with your dollar. Ever since my Chevrolet Vega blew up at 29k miles, I swore that I would never own another GM car.

You actually got 29k out of the Vega now that is impresive:laugh

[ultracyclist]

:brow :rofl

[henzilla]

lensuz....I have the same bunch of stickers advertising “Unstoppable 3.08.08", relating to the much anticipated delivery date of the 800GS", but come to think, if these placards were printed in Germany by BMW then the dates are correct for August delivery. You see in the US we indicate our dates in this order: month/day/ year while in Germany it is: day/month/year. So the dates on the stickers is 3.08.08 with periods(.) indicated. This is German, so the August dates for delivery is correct. No error on BMWNA's part, more of dealer and our misreading??:german

YIKES! That makes too much sense now...and right on timeline info from dealer now :dunno still gonna wait, being pissed off is in my control and I ain't goin' there...disappointed, but have other bikes to ride until then.

[Beemerdons]

Dear ultracyclist: You are a smart guy, with many good suggestions; please keep them coming. I had actually asked David if he at least was going to have one F800GS at the "Unstoppable 3.08.08" event so that I also could check it out in person. But his answer was no, and that sealed the deal that I wanted my money back. Since I already loved the specifications, an actual field inspection may just have kept me onboard with my $500 deposit as a disappointed "waiter".

Dear Henzilla: I am enjoying my lunch here in my office in Phoenix, staring at the saguaro cactus outside of my window and pondering your most recent posting.

Ach du Lieber, Mein Gott im Himmel! Was ist los? As first glance I thought that Motorradfahrer had to have just misinterpreted the BMWNA web site and many Internet advertisings that were here on our BMWMOA forum and in Owners News.

But, after seeing your latest post and re-digesting Der Motorradfahrer's postings, this just possibly could be the true story. Can you imagine if this was something so blindingly stupid as for BMWNA and BMW Motorrad AG not being able to read a freaking 2008 calendar? If this is indeed the case, as a businessman myself, I would send everyone involved in for drug/alcohol testing. I know that we in the Southwest have mota y poppies coming up from Sonora, but I had no idea that narco y drogas were making it all the way to New Jersey and Bavaria. Holy Cow!!

That'd certainly explain why none of our AZ Dealers can get a written response!!

[Kutcher]

Ach du Lieber, Mein Gott im Himmel!



HEY! My grandmother used to say that all the time!!!!

She just left out the "Mein"...


Hey, why not look for a good used twin spark 650GS for the time being?!
few pounds less than the 800GS (and quite a bit less ponies) but a great bike none the less!?

Kutch

[PAULBACH]

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g264/PaulBach/Big%20GIG/1228BIGGig083.jpg

More horsepower (1125cc), lower cost, made in America (except for the rotax engine)

[PAULBACH]

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g264/PaulBach/Big%20GIG/1228BIGGig083c2.jpg
A close up!

[ultracyclist]

Thank you for the compliment.

I do believe the european dating system is in play here. But didnt a memo go out at least to the dealers?

But I find this corporate BMW thing hard to fathom. The smart marketing move would be to have bikes at least on display at key US (and Canada?) locations in 2008.

For what it is worth, Triumph IS coming out with a Tiger 675 (middle weight touring bike-about 80-85hp) in 2009. Triumph Rat Net members are anxiously awaiting that bike like we are waiting for the F8GS.

Kawa has the new Versys out, and Honda has a new CB9?? (1000?) due late '08 or early '09.

The new Honda will have kindler ad gentler ergo's like an H-D Super Glide-they have targeted that market, ala the Triumph Bonny. The pic of the bike is a bit retro.

Hmmmm. Now let us see...just thinking out loud...middleweight+easy ergo's.
Do ya think there may be a shift in the buying motorcycle population of the US?

Maybe BMW wants to bring out the 800 when other companies launch their new middleweights?

Why we could speculate on this for a long time!

[Beemerdons]

Guys: Thanks for all of your excellent input regarding my finding another dual sport by May and I will come up with something. I just wanted that new F800GS!!

gpodzo and Paul mentioning the Buell Ulysses will have me checking out when they will become available with the Rotax engine. Ulysses currently has the Sportster 1200 mill and I already have a "Milwaukee vibrator" motor in my garage in my H-D 2002 FXD. I test rode a Ulysses last year and I do like the ergonomics.

Kutch recommended the BMW F650GS and I need to go back and give these a second look. I rode Andalucia, Spain in February of 2006 with my AZ Beemers buddy Uri Schumm. It was with Edelweiss Tours and Uri had a F650GS and I was riding a BMW 1150 Rockster. We swapped bikes for half a day in the area around Ronda and I couldn't wait to get my butt back on the twin, and off of that single.

But that was not a valid off road test of the F650GS and I need to check them out.

What is done, is indeed over and done with, in regards to Corporate BMW; they are not going to change a thing to the benefit of the BMW customers/consumers.

It is baffling that BMW Motorrad AG was advertising the F800GS meaning August 3, 2008 and BMW North America was telling their NA Dealers to go out and sign up contracts with buyers while accepting their $500 deposits for May bike deliveries!

[PAULBACH]

Guys: Thanks for all of your excellent input regarding my finding another dual sport by May and I will come up with something. I just wanted that new F800GS!!

gpodzo and Paul mentioning the Buell Ulysses will have me checking out when they will become available with the Rotax engine. Ulysses currently has the Sportster 1200 mill and I already have a "Milwaukee vibrator" motor in my garage ... .

This is the new 1125. It is not the Ulysses and it lacks the vibrator motor. It has a two cylinder ROTAX engine.
The 72 degree angle of the v-twin also helps reduce vibration, because it is closer to the perfectly balanced (in terms of primary vibrations) 90 degree layout. Since the engine is rigidly mounted as a stressed member of the chassis, Buell took the extra step of fitting three balance shafts -- two to reduce any remaining primary vibrations, and a third to balance the rocking motion generated by the v-twin power pulses.
It is available at a HD dealer today or at least the Buell dealers have them on the floor right now. Might be worth a look see. But it is a sport bike, unfortunately not a GS ride.

A review from Motorcycle Daily (http://www.motorcycledaily.com/27august07_2008buell1125r.htm)

[Motorradfahrer]

Sehr Geerter Herr Beemerton ... Ich hoffe dass Sie dieses lesen können. Schließlich sind Sie vielleicht zum Schluss gekommen, dass die Daten in der Tat wahr sind? Auch wenn es nur um eine Vermutung ist. So jetzt wird BMWAG moeglich sagen das BWNA alles missverstanden hat ueber die tatsächlichen Daten. Ich hoffe dass BMWMOA und BMWRA ueberzeuge BMWNA um das weitere zeigen dem F800GS auf der verbleibenden Motorrad Messe zum Wohle aller enttäuschte Amerikaner.:german :usa

[111009]

The timing for the release of the latest bikes have had alot of glitches lately the K1200S was delayed several times and the F800S and ST dates were also pushed back. I would say take a hard look at the spec sheet and then wait till one has arrived before making final decission . I bought a F800ST to slot in with My K1200RS after waiting for a test ride and love the bike. Keep thinking that A GS of some type would be good for my fleet and the 800GS looks like it might be a good fit. But I will deffinitly wait to see one in person. Good luck waiting and they may not be here by October if things slip again.

[32232]

I originally had thought about holding out for a F800GS when the 800's first came out last year. Rumour had it that the GS would be chain drive so I bought a F800ST last spring. It is quite simply the best motorcycle I have ever owned, realizing that what suits me won't suit everyone. Light and nimble for twisties and commuting, plenty of room and power for touring two up, smooth as silk engine, stunning gas mileage and low maintenance.

I have a dedicated dirt bike (Honda CRF230F with street light kit) but it isn't suitable for any distance on road. I have a vintage bike (1956 BMW R50) for casual riding, but I use it a lot and it is maintenance intensive. Solution: sell the pair and get a Triumph Scrambler. I'll be down to two bikes for the first time in 25 years, but I'll have an F800 and something for the dirt roads. Should be a 'does-all' pair.

[ultracyclist]

I sent you a PM.

[akcirque]

I sat on the F800GS at the Seattle show and loved it. Probably will be the replacement for my F650 Dakar in a few years. Local NW Washington dealer last Saturday says he will have one on March 8th as a demo. Who knows?

For what's it is worth, the two F650 Dakars in my garage were ridden two-up around Patagonia and Tierra Del Fuego, stomping KLRs and DRs. The dakars and thier slightly shorter GS cousins are great long distance rides if the you need to venture off-pavement sometimes.

[Beemerdons]

Gruss Gott Motorradfahrer! Wie gehts du? Ihr Deutsch ist vollkommen und ich denke, dass Sie in diesem Sein eine Annahme durch BMWNA Handler korrekt sind.

What Motorradfahrer and I are discussing auf Deutsch is "Annahme" which literally translates as assumption or acceptance in the English language.

When you'd speak to a Bavarian describing what you wanted to buy, or wanted to look for, or how you could get somewhere; a response is Annahme. Elsewhere in Germany vermutung or vermunftig lets a person "know that you know a fact".

What we believe is that BMW North America simply assumed or accepted, that with the inaguaration of the BMW Motorrad AG "Unstoppable 3.08.08" campaign, that they were being given carte blance to solicit contracts and accept deposits.

Motorradfahrer, and also stated by ultracyclist, makes a good point auf Deutsch regarding what a morale booster it would be if BMW makes good on getting at least one F800GS into the showroom of each North American dealer as a show of good faith to their NA customers and consumers. This'd certainly mend fences!!

32232 got me intrigued with his reference to the Triumph Scrambler and so I checked out its specs: surprisingly it has a wet weight similar to a BMW F800GS.

Paul, that 1125 Rotax twin cylinder does seem outstanding; it just has to get into the Ulysses for me to be interested in buying it. Otherwise I do like the Buell line

akcirque: Wow, that is an impressive recommendation! Two up riding around Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego is a spectacular endorsement. In regards to stomping KLR's, that doesn't take much; Ha, ha! As dependable as my KLR was, and it never failed me even one time, its measly 35 horsepower was a real joke!

Guys, what I'm looking for is a light bike that'll carry me from Puertecitos to Laguna Chapala alongside Mar de Cortes with a small amount of muss and fuss.

Those of you that have ridden Baja and have stopped for a Coca-Cola with Senor Coco of Coco's Corner will know what I am talking about. Mostly many kilometers of loose gravel, soft dirt and clinging sand that can easily be negotiated. But, like the rest of the Golfo de California routes there'll always be an occasionally nasty stretch, like Tres Hermanas hill near Isla El Muerto where you need Dakar abilities.

[Mika]

Here is a portion of a BMW PressClub release from BMW Germany that was posted today.

On 08 March celebrates BMW motorcycle to the official season start. On this day, the new twin-cylinder models BMW F 800 GS and BMW F 650 GS selling their debuts. The arrival of the new middle-class travel Enduro BMW F 800 GS, an all-rounder with excellent terrain-and long-haul characteristics, is eagerly awaited. The new F 650 GS, worthy successor of the popular single-entry-model, has now also advanced in its design and unique parallel twin.

Also from 08 March is the BMW HP2 the hearts of sports fans of all boxers beat. The framework of the long-distance race developed, real motorcycle racing technology on the road, and the first time over a dohc cylinder head.

In the second half of 2008, the new BMW sports G Enduro 450 X model round



It would seem that it is the G 450's release that is being delayed until September.

[GlobalRider]

Today I learned that the new 800 GS is not coming to the states until maybe September 2008. WHY? weak dollar!!!!!!!!!:dunno

Probably because they're still trying to figure out the piston problems.

The last MOTORRAD issue had a 50,000 kilometer long term test of the F800 GS (thats 30,000 miles).

After the long term test, the engine/transmission were torn down for inspection. It did very well in all areas but one; the pistons were well beyond the extreme end of the service limit and extremely scored.

[Visian]

After the long term test, the engine/transmission were torn down for inspection. It did very well in all areas but one; the pistons were well beyond the extreme end of the service limit and extremely scored.

wow... very interesting. very un-rotax-like.

did they have any analysis as to why?

ian

[PAULBACH]

Is this not the same engine as in the F800s and F800ST?

[GlobalRider]

wow... very interesting. very un-rotax-like.

did they have any analysis as to why?

ian

Ian, I just got the issue last night and other than the data sheet, I didn't have time to get into the article. I'm packing to head south...wanna meet me for a beer near Fort Myers?

This must be the first time I've seen piston measurements taken at that end of the scale...the very end.

[GlobalRider]

Is this not the same engine as in the F800s and F800ST?

Exactly what went through my mind.

So the very first thing I did was go to the on-line microfiche catalog and see if all F800 pistons are the same. They are on the S and ST, but there is no on-line parts listing for the GS yet so I couldn't verify the part number for that model.

Anyway, I doubt it would have a shorter skirt or be any different from the S and ST pistons.

I doubt the testers didn't keep an eye on the oil level.

[AZ-J]

http://unstoppable.bmwmotorcyclesus.com/

One thing is for sure, when we are all at Gillette, Wyoming together this summer for the BMWMOA International Rally you will certainly be able to pick out and spot Beemerdon's bike parked at the CamPlex: It will be the KTM 690 Adventure with the Arizona license plate and the AZ Beemers license plate ring; and adorned with "Unstoppable 3.08.08" stickers on the panniers, tank, windshield and fender.


Hey you, you're going to Gillette?

I think you owe me an apology. Remember this post of yours, after I invited any AZBeemers to join me going there?


Gillette, Wyoming in July? Puta la maji, that is going to be one hot, dry, dusty and windblown mutha out there! I wonder what the MOA has been smoking to put this rally in Gillette? Coming from Phoenix in July that is going to be just going from the frying pan into the fire! Plus, if there are any twisty mountain roads in Eastern Wyoming my motorcycle and I have never found it yet.

I usually attend all MOA International Rallies, but I think I will pass on this one; I would rather ride back to Vermont and Maine again! Wowser, with all of the places in North America to hold a rally; why on earth pick Gillette?

[Beemerdons]

Hi Tweety1, Good to hear from you! Have your shoulder & back problems healed themselves, and are you feeling better these days? I knew that you were hurting at New Year's when you couldn't go on the AZ Beemers Club ride to Winkelman.

"I think I will pass on this one;" meant that I'd think about it and I have thought!!

I am going to Gillette to have fun with these wonderful BMWMOA friends. I have had a ball at every single International MOA Rally that I've ever been to and I'll have a blast in Wyoming too. I still think the Rally Site Selection Committee was smoking some really muy bueno Oaxaca mota when they picked Gillette though!

I still think fondly of the Vermont rally with those incredibly sweet twisty NE roads!

Hey, what is your take on the piston wear in the F800 motors? I am good friends with Alex - Global Rider through our mutual interest in riding the Alps; actually, Alex GR had been my guru and mentor in providing me with inside Alps riding info!

I'm very interested in reading Alex's synopsis on the F800 piston wear. I'm also going to pick up a copy of that particular issue of MOTORRAD. I'll translate it from German if you wish, if you wanted to talk to David of BMW Scottsdale about this.

[AZ-J]

Hi Tweety1, Good to hear from you! Have your shoulder & back problems healed themselves, and are you feeling better these days? I knew that you were hurting at New Year's when you couldn't go on the AZ Beemers Club ride to Winkelman.

"I think I will pass on this one;" meant that I'd think about it and I have thought!!

I am going to Gillette to have fun with these wonderful BMWMOA friends. I have had a ball at every single International MOA Rally that I've ever been to and I'll have a blast in Wyoming too. I still think the Rally Site Selection Committee was smoking some really muy bueno Oaxaca mota when they picked Gillette though!

I still think fondly of the Vermont rally with those incredibly sweet twisty NE roads!

Hey, what is your take on the piston wear in the F800 motors? I am good friends with Alex - Global Rider through our mutual interest in riding the Alps; actually, Alex GR had been my guru and mentor in providing me with inside Alps riding info!

I'm very interested in reading Alex's synopsis on the F800 piston wear. I'm also going to pick up a copy of that particular issue of MOTORRAD. I'll translate it from German if you wish, if you wanted to talk to David of BMW Scottsdale about this.

Hello, Beemerdons! Great that you are going to Gillette! Maybe we can get a chain gang ride together to it?

With a well-traveled friend, I have made a MapSource route of a trip with as little of interstates as possible that is less than 1,200 miles. It traverses a several US parks.

There was an extremely detailed article on the F800 engine in the first Englsh version of BMW Motorcycle Magazine, and they detailed out how cast iron the engine is, so Alex's report would be very interesting. Please translate it from German so I can talk to David about it. I hope Alex agrees with BMW Motorcycle Magazine because while I have seen some complaints via the forums (though I have had few issues) piston issues was not one of them.

Keep the rubber-side down!

Thanks, and I hope to see you on the way to Gillette!

[henzilla]

Exactly what went through my mind.

So the very first thing I did was go to the on-line microfiche catalog and see if all F800 pistons are the same. They are on the S and ST, but there is no on-line parts listing for the GS yet so I couldn't verify the part number for that model.

Anyway, I doubt it would have a shorter skirt or be any different from the S and ST pistons.

I doubt the testers didn't keep an eye on the oil level.

I recall reading the engine cylinder angle is different on the GS model. Might have been in the link on the home page. Wondering what internal parts were changed to accomodate that?

[henzilla]

here is what I read from the specs :

The engine is the parallel twin from the F 800 S modified for the new usage, with its cylinders now only inclined 8.3 degrees forward

[henzilla]

a little more:
Modified two-cylinder.
The parallel twin familiar from the F 800 S/ST models forms the basis for the GS drive. For the new usage, however, some aspects of the engine have been modified. In order to allow long spring travels with a wheel spacing that remains moderate, plus an ideal distribution of weight, the cylinders are
now only angled forward by 8.3 degrees instead of the 30 degrees with the F 800 S/ST. This solution has been made possible by a new design for
the lower engine housing section made from die-cast aluminum. It contains application points for the engine protection plate and provides the ideal working conditions for the semi-dry sump lubrication. In addition, the cylinder head has been reinforced in the area of the frame connection at the front
on the right. The GS engine has a modified clutch cover which creates more space in the footrest area and more room for a new oil dipstick and a changed clutch release shaft. Finally, the water pump housing and cooling hose connections have been adapted to the new position of the engine.
The side-effect of these modifications is that the engine is a kilogram lighter than the unit used in the S/ST model series.

[CourtFisher]

Probably because they're still trying to figure out the piston problems.

The last MOTORRAD issue had a 50,000 kilometer long term test of the F800 GS (thats 30,000 miles).

After the long term test, the engine/transmission were torn down for inspection. It did very well in all areas but one; the pistons were well beyond the extreme end of the service limit and extremely scored.

Alex,
Not to put too fine a point on it, but that MOTORRAD long term test in issue 2008/ 2, is of an F800 S, not a GS:
http://www.motorradonline.de/archiv/motorraeder/dauertest-abschlussbilanz-bmw-f-800-s.272138.htm
(Run your own translator)
Of course, some of the same 'issues' may wind up on the GS motor. But I'd be real surprised if anyone other than Touratech's Herbert Schwarz has put 50K km on an 800 GS yet.

Court

[lensuz]

Anybody hear anything about BMW NA doing "something special" for those who had placed a deposit on the F 800GS? I caught a wiff of such a rumor today.

[Motorradfahrer]

Just came back from the International Motorcycle show in Atlanta, GA. Saw all motorcycles and especially lurked by the BMW grounds. All makes were there except the old F650GS nor the F650 twin. Am glad that the F800GS was present. The F800GS is a whopping 120# lighter than the R1200GSA and only about 50# lighter than the R1200GS. It's a tall bike, looks skinny, bare of what I am used to:R1200RT; R1200GS, not too much bigger than a F650GS. It didn't look too attractive if that is what you might want. I did find it a bit "cheap" in regard to refinements compared to the bigger GS brothers. It's in my opinion a true 60/40 or 70/30 (off-road/slab) bike. You can tell by its bigger 21" front and 17" rear tire. Two-up rear seats are kind of small. It can get crowded for two-ups like the F650GS. It's a good single rider bike.

Regarding the Deutsche Motorrad magazine report on the F800 cylinder scorching and wear after 50k km. This was primarily on the F800S and not the GS. I think this has been alleviated by shifting the engine piston angle forward as reported by you guys. The BMWNA guys here candidly admitted that the weak dollar is the cause as well as production underestimation of how many the US wanted. Europe, Africa, the land of Oz came first all due to better monetary return. The demand in the US was so great that BMW would lose too much money so as you might guess...it will come in the fall with a higher price tag unless the dollar prevails:thumb

[bikerfish1100]

Anybody hear anything about BMW NA doing "something special" for those who had placed a deposit on the F 800GS? I caught a wiff of such a rumor today.
:lurk I loooove rumors. Especially motorcycle rumors. Even most especially internet based motorcycle rumors. :banghead

[henzilla]

we get a die cast model to drive around the desk top???:laugh :laugh :laugh

[merkinmuffley]

The demand in the US was so great that BMW would lose too much money so as you might guess...it will come in the fall with a higher price tag unless the dollar prevails

I think I can safely predict the dollar will be lower in the fall - the interest rate cut(s) Bernake is touting will put a lot of pressure on the already depressed dollar and it is expected to trade lower - those holding lots of dollars (China) are saying it'll trade a lot lower.

[AZ-J]

I think I can safely predict the dollar will be lower in the fall - the interest rate cut(s) Bernake is touting will put a lot of pressure on the already depressed dollar and it is expected to trade lower - those holding lots of dollars (China) are saying it'll trade a lot lower.

So what you are saying is we either will not see the F800GS in the Fall as announced, or it will arive priced much higher, as many of the other bikes may be by then. Got to love the World economy!

[ultracyclist]

I will bet you that prices on all foreign goods will be higher in the fall.

Based on the opening of the foreign markets today, they are betting on a global recession caused by the US. The sell off is global and sharp.

If we do hit a recession, BMW may delay the introduction of the GS because it will not want inventory sitting around on showroom floors for 6 months (the dealers do want that either.). Why bring out a model to sit around and then have to worry about clearing them out for the 2009's?

[merkinmuffley]

So what you are saying is we either will not see the F800GS in the Fall as announced, or it will arive priced much higher, as many of the other bikes may be by then. Got to love the World economy!

I don't have a clue what BMW will do - the US is their biggest market, my guess is they'll be willing to accept smaller profit margins to sell the bike. They don't have a lot of options, raise the price and reduce market share - or price it as announced and accept lower margins. I'd bet on the latter.

[AZ-J]

I don't have a clue what BMW will do - the US is their biggest market, my guess is they'll be willing to accept smaller profit margins to sell the bike. They don't have a lot of options, raise the price and reduce market share - or price it as announced and accept lower margins. I'd bet on the latter.


Meanwhile, BMW has disenfranchised many F800GS buyers with a big SO WHAT! That spreads quite far and quickly.

[mikem57x]

HEY !!!

I'm just wondering if anyone has heard what the price is for the new 800GSA !!!

THANKS,
MIKE M.:usa

[rkasal]

:lurk I loooove rumors. Especially motorcycle rumors. Even most especially internet based motorcycle rumors. :banghead

Just like the proverbial Lance Cpl. hotline. :laugh

[rkasal]

I don't have a clue what BMW will do - the US is their biggest market, my guess is they'll be willing to accept smaller profit margins to sell the bike. They don't have a lot of options, raise the price and reduce market share - or price it as announced and accept lower margins. I'd bet on the latter.


I don't know what their profit margin is, but they could sell at a slight loss and make it up in Farkle sales. Kind of like grocery stores with their loss leader ads to lure people into the stores who then buy lots of stuff they don't need.

I'm not saying we all don't NEED farkles. LOL

[kpinvt]

Just saying, is all.

[Beemerdons]

Below is a verbatim post from Mr. David Slepak, Owner of BMW Motorcycles of Scottsdale. Everyone in my BMWMOA Chartered Club AZ Beemers has been wanting to know what was currently going on with the "UNSTOPPABLE" 3/08/08 sales campaign of BMW North America and BMW Motorrad AG. David was kind enough to share with us what he knows of the situation. David is BMW Dealers Representative for the Western US, so this is no doubt the latest and greatest:


Good Evening Don,

Thank you for your phone call today, I am glad that I was able to reach you on the way home this evening. Read your post on the AZ Beemers website and wanted to make sure that you and your fellow club members have all of the correct information.

As of right now, BMW has communicated to us that plans will continue for a “National” sweepstakes to win an F800GS, entry for this to be connected via the BMW Motorcycles Website and forms to be validated at local BMW retailers.

You had asked me if we will be having an open house on the 8th of March. While we will not be able to show a bike that isn’t available in the US til September we are in the process of trying to identify a value added event to the local BMW community some time this spring. I am working with several different ideas that would speak directly to the growing GS community in Arizona. Both Josh and I have worked extremely hard to offer several wonderful opportunities like Helge Peterson (Spring 2006), Andy Sills (Summer 2007), sponsored viewings of “The Fastest Indian,” Jim Hyde GS School and more. As this becomes a reality I will keep you in the loop.

While Victory and Iron Horse will obviously not have F800GS motorcycles on display I can’t confirm or speak for them as to what their plans are for March 8th event. I would suggest calling Rick or John directly to determine what their plans include if any.

I hope that this provides you with some clarification as to the plans in the coming months, while confusing & ever changing please feel free to email me or phone any time. I again thank you for your support and friendship.

Warm regards,


David J. Slepak

Dealer Principal / General Manager

Euro Motorsports Scottsdale

BMW Motorcycles of Scottsdale

Ducati Scottsdale

Vespa North Scottsdale

MV Agusta Scottsdale

Triumph Scottsdale

_____________________________________

14870 North Northsight Blvd Ste 100

Scottsdale Arizona 85260

Phone: (480) 609-1800

Fax: (480) 609-1801

www.euromotorsportsllc.com

Don't forget to join our e-newsletter for the latest events, specials and more!

[PGlaves]

I don't have a clue what BMW will do - the US is their biggest market, my guess is they'll be willing to accept smaller profit margins to sell the bike. They don't have a lot of options, raise the price and reduce market share - or price it as announced and accept lower margins. I'd bet on the latter.

I'm curious as to the source for the "US is their biggest market" comment. The last numbers I saw Germany was their biggest market and even Italy had more BMW motorcycle sales than the US. It varies a little by model. The US was big in K1200LTs, but South Africa bought more GSs.

[lkchris]

If the USA is indeed BMW's biggest market, they are in a bit of trouble because of the weakness of the dollar.

Perhaps BMW simply wants to sell F800GS in markets where they don't lose money.

Perhaps the delay is to given everyone a chance to forget the price originally floated.

[Mika]

Paul as far as I know you are correct, the US was the thrid largest BMW market in 2007. The following article is from Dealer News and was widely reported elsewhere. I have not been able to confirm the numbers yet.

dealernews.com (http://www.dealernews.com/dealernews/Breaking+News/BMW-Reveals-Top-Markets/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/486393?contextCategoryId=2704)
BMW reveals top markets

Everything that I have been reading in the European sites I follow have the F800GS coming out as scheduled in Europe and South Africa.

[Mika]

PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS AWAITING ARRIVAL OF BMW's F 800 GS
01/25/2008

New Adventure Bike Expected to Arrive at Retailers This Fall
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - January 24, 2008... Motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the arrival of BMW's new F 800 GS will need to be a bit more patient, as production of the middleweight dual-purpose enduro will be delayed due to worldwide demand for the popular F 650 GS. The F 800 GS is expected to be available at US BMW Motorrad retailers in Fall 2008, making it a 2009 model.

Fulfilling a need for a pure off-road oriented motorcycle that still has all the power, handling and reliability required for long-distance adventure touring as well as on-street handling, the F 800 GS is perfectly positioned as a middleweight dual-purpose enduro. The bike, representing yet another market segment in BMW's dual-sport category, follows in the footsteps of its highly acclaimed "older brother" - the R 1200 GS - which traces its roots back to the early 1980s when BMW won the grueling Paris-Dakar rally four times with its trailblazing dual-purpose R 80 G/S.

The F 800 GS, BMW's latest dual-purpose enduro, features an asymmetrical double headlight and a look that is sleek, trim and 100% aggressive. With a compact 85-horsepower parallel twin engine, lightweight steel trellis frame and double-sided swingarm, along with a chain drive and longer front and rear suspension travel, there has never been a BMW dual-purpose machine offering such a unique blend of power, comfort and off-road muscle.

The 2008 BMW Motorrad GS line features the upgraded R 1200 GS and GS Adventure models, which will arrive in dealerships this Spring. Since their debut in 2004, the versatile R 1200 GS and its rugged companion, the R 1200 GS Adventure, have earned praise from motorcycle enthusiasts and the press for their exceptional performance both on and off the road.

The R 1200 GS has earned award after award, including Cycle World's Best Open Class Street Bike and the International Journalist's Panel "Best Bike in the World." For 2008, this go-anywhere motorcycle has several enhancements that meet the demands of serious motorcyclists on both dirt and pavement. A new aluminum handlebar which can be mounted in two positions offers increased ergonomics, making its seated (or standing while off-road) position even more comfortable. Its engine offers 5% more power and its new transmission ratios also mean quicker acceleration and better low-speed traction.

The R 1200 GS Adventure - named "Best Adventure Bike" three years in a row by editors of Motorcyclist Magazine - also offers a number of significant features that make it even more adept at riding to the ends of the earth. In addition to new design elements, including two-part, two-color hand protectors, the new 2008 R 1200 GS Adventure provides a taller windshield, adjustable seat and extra wide foot pegs making long days in the saddle both comfortable and enjoyable. A generous 8.7 gallon fuel tank allows the rider to cover vast areas of territory easier and optional ABS enhances braking safety when required.

The most significant technological development found on both the 2008 R 1200 GS and GS Adventure models is optional enduro ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) technology (a first-time offering for BMW off-road bikes) with three damper settings - Sport, Normal and Comfort -- giving riders the option of customizing both front and rear suspensions to his or her specifications. Whether they are navigating the urban jungle or touring off the beaten path, these GS models have set a new standard for the entire adventure bike category.

Motorcycle enthusiasts got a preview of all three new GS models at Cycle World IMS shows this winter

[CourtFisher]

Paul as far as I know you are correct, the US was the thrid largest BMW market in 2007. The following article is from Dealer News and was widely reported elsewhere. I have not been able to confirm the numbers yet.

dealernews.com (http://www.dealernews.com/dealernews/Breaking+News/BMW-Reveals-Top-Markets/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/486393?contextCategoryId=2704)
BMW reveals top markets

Everything that I have been reading in the European sites I follow have the F800GS coming out as scheduled in Europe and South Africa.

"...confirm the numbers" [?] The dealernews.com report is nothing more than a repackaging of an official BMW AG Motorrad press release on 01/18/2008, reprinted among other places in your very own:kiss Morning Reads here:
http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/showthread.php?t=23071

Yes, according to year-on-year unit sales data released by BMW Motorrad over the last decade, the US fell from 2nd to 3rd place (now behind Italy, and perennial leader Germany) as of 2006.

Today, BMW NA Motorrad's own Roy Oliemuller finally issues an 'official' press release apology & explanation for delay of the 800gs:
In the BMW Group PressClub
"PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS AWAITING ARRIVAL OF BMW's F 800 GS
01/25/2008
New Adventure Bike Expected to Arrive at Retailers This Fall
Woodcliff Lake, NJ - January 24, 2008... Motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the arrival of BMW's new F 800 GS will need to be a bit more patient, as production of the middleweight dual-purpose enduro will be delayed due to worldwide demand for the popular F 650 GS. The F 800 GS is expected to be available at US BMW Motorrad retailers in Fall 2008, making it a 2009 model...."

Now of course whether that's an accurate/ complete explanation of the delay is a question we can churn forever.

[Mika]

:dunno Sometimers:dunno

Sometimes I remember what I post sometimes I just drool into my cup.:wave

[dlearl476]

Anybody hear anything about BMW NA doing "something special" for those who had placed a deposit on the F 800GS? I caught a wiff of such a rumor today.
I was under the impression that this entire thread was about the "something special" BMW did for those with deposits on F800GS'.:)



Meanwhile, BMW has disenfranchised many F800GS buyers with a big SO WHAT! That spreads quite far and quickly.

:scratch And this surprises you? How? (Can you say "final drive") IMO, for every "disenfranchised" prospective F800GS owner, BMW will find 1.5 willing to take their place and slap down cash the instant they're available.


If the USA is indeed BMW's biggest market, they are in a bit of trouble because of the weakness of the dollar.

Perhaps BMW simply wants to sell F800GS in markets where they don't lose money.

Perhaps the delay is to given everyone a chance to forget the price originally floated.

IIRC, I saw a press release from BMW at EICMA that stated they were tying their accounting/bookeeping, (whatever, I'm not a CPA so I don't know) to the dollar instead of the Euro for these very reasons. Which, AFAIK, means that they wouldn't be affected by a "weak" dollar, but actually stand to make more money in other markets if their pricing was attached to the dollar.

I think the most plausible explanation is that they haven't fulfilled worldwide orders for F650GS' and consequently can't get GS production up to speed to meet worldwide demand. Couple that with the red tape invovled with federalizing a new MC and there you have it.

[Mika]

Natural hedging and purchasing in US dollars to be expanded

In order to strengthen independence from currency fluctuations, the BMW Group will strategically step up natural hedging as well as purchasing, primarily in US dollars. By 2012, production capacity of the US plant in Spartanburg will be increased from 140,000 at present to 240,000 units. Plans for the expansion are already underway.

The BMW Group will also raise the Oxford MINI plant's capacity to 260,000 units per annum, without making additional investments. In addition, the company plans to take the first step to increasing capacities in China from 30,000 to 44,000 units a year.

[Beemerdons]

So, am I to understand freund Roy that if I take my $500 F800GS deposit moto money that was refunded to me somewhere else, such as for an Austrian KTM 690 Adventure, because BMW Motorrad AG und BMW North America cannot deliver the product that they promised me, I am somehow less virtuous? Gott im Himmel!

[GlobalRider]

Alex,
Not to put too fine a point on it, but that MOTORRAD long term test in issue 2008/ 2, is of an F800 S, not a GS.

Court

Hi Court,

I don't have the issue in front of me, but it may have been the S.

Are the motors different? I don't know...someone mentioned something about a different cylinder angle. No matter...its unacceptable unless it was caused by the tester(s)....forgot to add oil or something. I doubt it though. In all my years subscribing to MOTORRAD, never have I seen pistons at that limit in all the tests I've browsed over.

The sun down here in Flordia is getting to be a bit boring. I'm glad I don't own a bike down here. The roads are too damn flat and straight.

[CourtFisher]

Congrats to Vince/ BMW ON for getting the online press review(s) rolling...and for sending Rob Nye to do it:;)

http://www.bmwmoa.org/features/F800GS_SA_taste.htm

[Visian]

http://www.bmwmoa.org/features/F800GS_SA_taste.htm

excellent!

his story about alan cathcart reminds me of when i helped mark hoyer of cycleworld get out from under his fallen GSA.

can't wait to read the rest of the story... especially what this bike is like when ridden hard.

ian

[SIBUD]

Congrats to Vince/ BMW ON for getting the online press review(s) rolling...and for sending Rob Nye to do it:;)

http://www.bmwmoa.org/features/F800GS_SA_taste.htm

Darn shame Rob had to go all that way to ride the new GS. :laugh

[Kutcher]

So, am I to understand freund Roy that if I take my $500 F800GS deposit moto money that was refunded to me somewhere else, such as for an Austrian KTM 690 Adventure, because BMW Motorrad AG und BMW North America cannot deliver the product that they promised me, I am somehow less virtuous? Gott im Himmel!


You mean something like this?

[Kutcher]

Or taking the "rally" edition and modding it to this...?

Notice the dual rear saddle tanks...?

[Kutcher]

Its sitting in someones garage....Yours?:laugh

[Beemerdons]

I would be proud and happy to own any of those KTM's, I've reached the point where I couldn't care less if my motorcycles now have a Roundel on the gas tank!

I did have a recent turn of good luck, in a bad news & good news sort of odd way.

The good news is that I was able to buy back my 2006 Kawasaki KLR 650 from my company's young purchasing agent so now my summer Mexico adventure trip is no longer in jeopardy due to rat BMW screwing me over by yanking the F800GS.

The very bad news is that our company was bought out by a huge multi-national massive conglomerate! That is the reason that my young friend panicked and he sold me back my KLR. He has a non-working wife and two young children and he was concerned about his job during the new transition. I've been there for over twenty years and I know where all the bodies are buried. Ha! I'm safe for now!

I hope that the new ownership doesn't start to cut me back on my motorycle trip time. "Work is the Curse of the Motorcycle Riding Class!" - Das Kapital, Karl Marx.

[Kutcher]

Beemerdons,



...Enjoy the "ride"...Whatever it may be.

[Kutcher]

Another ride report...

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/main.jhtml?xml=/motoring/2008/02/23/nosplit/mfbike123.xml

[Beemerdons]

PAULBACH, SIBUD, Kutcher, M1ka, Visian, dlearl476, Global Rider, Court & others,

Pack of AZB went to see Long Way Down on Thursday night and the 800gs topic raised its ugly, little pointed Teutonic head. And here is our question to all of you:

Did anyone in the United States actually win an F800GS back on March 8, 2008???

Of the dozen AZ Beemers that went to see Ewan and Charley tackle Africa, all of us had entered the "UNSTOPPABLE 3/8/08" BMWNA Raffle Drawing last February!

Since we discussed this, I've tried to discover through the Internet who the lucky winner of a promised give away BMW F800GS was; no success in finding any info.

Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano takes a dim view of fraudulent raffles and has recently jailed a few unscrupulous promoters. I may find out her thoughts on this!

[FredRydr]

...I've tried to discover through the Internet who the lucky winner of a promised give away BMW F800GS was; no success in finding any info.

Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano takes a dim view of fraudulent raffles and has recently jailed a few unscrupulous promoters. I may find out her thoughts on this!
Before you do that, mail a letter to BMW in New Jersey asking for that information, and enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope. You have to take a few steps first before you have standing to complain.

Fred

[Beemerdons]

Fred, the last letter I wrote to BMWNA was regarding the constant "surging or hunting" of my 1996 R1100GS. I received a letter back from Motorrad AG telling me I did not know how to operate my machine properly. BMW owner since 03/69!

http://www.azag.gov/ Easiest way for me to research this is to send question to AZ Attorney General Terry Goddard. He's a fighter when it comes to raffle fraud.

[Beemerdons]

Actually, I agree with you Fred! I just sent an e-mail and will send off a hard copy!

I went to http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/contact/index.jsp and sent this post:

"Back in February of 2008 I, and dozens of others in my BMWMOA Chartered Club #89, entered your "UNSTOPPABLE 03/08/08" Raffle Drawing for a new BMW F800GS. You'd stated that the winner would be documented on this BMW Motorcycles Website. I and my BMW Riding Friends have not seen the name of this individual!

Who in United States won the BMW F800GS and where do they live in the USA?"

I'll patiently wait until August 11th before I take any further action on "03/08/03!".

[widebmw]

I remember hearing that the winner was in Sierra BMW the day of the drawing.
I think he lives in Reno, NV

[AZ-J]

I remember hearing that the winner was in Sierra BMW the day of the drawing.
I think he lives in Reno, NV

Has he taken delivery? I'd bet not!

[Beemerdons]

I remember hearing that the winner was in Sierra BMW the day of the drawing.
I think he lives in Reno, NV

I received the following post at 3 PM from dispatcher@bmw.com : "We will reply to your message within two business day." I'll report back to Forum on Wednesday.

I believe that friend Tweety1 is correct; I am also guessing he does not have bike!

[Beemerdons]

lane@sierrabmw.com
info@sierrabmw.com

Sierra BMW
Mr. Lane Swall

Was the winner of BMWNA's UNSTOPPABLE F800GS selected at Sierra BMW? I am BMWMOA member #24810.

Sincerely yours,


Don Stanley
Chandler, AZ
H: 480-917-3863

Also, http://www.sierrabmw.com is a very nice website and they had some real bargains listed there. May wind up buying some goodies while researching this!

[Beemerdons]

Thank you widebmw! Narrowing it down to Sierra BMW really paid off in this hunt!

I went back to Sierra BMW's website and utilized the Search function again, but with about five different wordings. Finally hit paydirt on the last combo of words.

Odd thing is I used very same combos at BMWNA's search site and got nothing!

"Mitch Gallagher of Reno, NV is the BMW Motorrad USA Unstoppable Sweepstakes Winner!

Mitch is a lifelong motorcyclist with a great riding and racing history. Mitch's first street bike was a 1974 BMW R 90/6 which he bought in 1988 at age 21. He is a former pro motocross racer and currently competes in Flat Track competitions as well as rides on and off-road. Mitch is a Heavy Equipment Operator and a part time musician, likes classic cars and currently has 5 bikes in his garage. He has been an avid motorcyclist for the past 30+ years.

Mitch and his wife were in the process of moving on Saturday when he talked his dad and a friend into knocking off the moving detail to stop by Sierra BMW and check out the webcast, as he had a feeling that he might win . Upon seeing the announcement Mitch let out a few good whoops and hoots. He was stoked! He immediately promised the dealer that he was not the kind of guy that wins a bike and then turns around and sells it. Mitch also said, "The F 800 GS is my dream bike and I am going to ride the heck out of it!"

The F 800 GS will fit in perfectly with his current motorcycles and give him the ability to "show off what the bike can do" at some dual sport rallies once the weather gets a bit nicer. Mitch has owned a variety of BMWs over the years and can't wait to add this new bike to his collection.

Look for Mitch on his Sunset Yellow F 800 GS this Fall."

[AZ-J]

Thank you widebmw! Narrowing it down to Sierra BMW really paid off in this hunt!

I went back to Sierra BMW's website and utilized the Search function again, but with about five different wordings. Finally hit paydirt on the last combo of words.

Odd thing is I used very same combos at BMWNA's search site and got nothing!

"Mitch Gallagher of Reno, NV is the BMW Motorrad USA Unstoppable Sweepstakes Winner!

Mitch is a lifelong motorcyclist with a great riding and racing history. Mitch's first street bike was a 1974 BMW R 90/6 which he bought in 1988 at age 21. He is a former pro motocross racer and currently competes in Flat Track competitions as well as rides on and off-road. Mitch is a Heavy Equipment Operator and a part time musician, likes classic cars and currently has 5 bikes in his garage. He has been an avid motorcyclist for the past 30+ years.

Mitch and his wife were in the process of moving on Saturday when he talked his dad and a friend into knocking off the moving detail to stop by Sierra BMW and check out the webcast, as he had a feeling that he might win . Upon seeing the announcement Mitch let out a few good whoops and hoots. He was stoked! He immediately promised the dealer that he was not the kind of guy that wins a bike and then turns around and sells it. Mitch also said, "The F 800 GS is my dream bike and I am going to ride the heck out of it!"

The F 800 GS will fit in perfectly with his current motorcycles and give him the ability to "show off what the bike can do" at some dual sport rallies once the weather gets a bit nicer. Mitch has owned a variety of BMWs over the years and can't wait to add this new bike to his collection.

Look for Mitch on his Sunset Yellow F 800 GS this Fall."

Love that "this Fall" part :rofl . When I see it, I'll believe it.

[Kutcher]

sure....Beemerdons...


Go ahead and burst my bubble that -somehow,:brad I just might have been the unstoppable winner....!

[Beemerdons]

This Mitch Gallagher does seem like a really good guy with the "Right" BMW Stuff!!!

[knary]

lane@sierrabmw.com
info@sierrabmw.com

Sierra BMW
Mr. Lane Swall

Was the winner of BMWNA's UNSTOPPABLE F800GS selected at Sierra BMW? I am BMWMOA member #24810.

Sincerely yours,


Don Stanley
Chandler, AZ
H: 480-917-3863

Also, http://www.sierrabmw.com is a very nice website and they had some real bargains listed there. May wind up buying some goodies while researching this!

It's a family shop and the Swalls are good people. :nod