Adventure bike sales in the UK continue to climb, with June 2026 registrations up by just over 20 per cent compared to the same month in 2025. According to the MCIA, 2,871 new adventure bikes were registered in June 2026, up from 2,389 in June 2025. Other segments also saw growth: modern classics rose by over 23 per cent, and road sports by over 22 per cent. In contrast, touring model sales fell by nearly 40 per cent.
A 700-Mile Test Ride
To explore the trend, the author undertook a 700-mile tour on BMW’s F900 GS Adventure, riding from London to the Gwynedd coast and back. The journey included motorway miles on the M4 and sinuous Welsh roads, but no off-road sections. Despite the bike’s off-road credentials—21-inch front wheel, 230mm of fork travel, 215mm rear suspension, 230mm ground clearance, and optional Enduro Pro mode—the marketing material for the F900 GS Adventure in the UK focuses on touring and adventure rather than extreme off-road imagery.
Specifications and Pricing
The F900 GS Adventure replaces the F850 GS Adventure. It weighs 246kg, just 2kg more than its predecessor, and produces 105hp (up from 95hp) and 93Nm of torque. The base model starts at £12,420, significantly less than the R1300 GS, which starts at £18,890. Standard features include heated grips, cruise control, and a manual screen adjustable on the fly. Optional packages add riding modes like Dynamic, Enduro, and Enduro Pro. The review bike came with large BMW panniers and top box, and a 23-litre fuel tank.
Riding Impressions
On the road, the F900 felt heavy at low speeds—the author, at 5’10”, could only tip-toe with the standard 875mm seat height. However, once moving, the weight dissipated, and the bike handled smoothly. The parallel twin engine delivered linear, usable power, with good torque for overtaking. The author found comfort adequate for about 90 minutes before needing a break, with no wrist or back strain. In traffic, the clutch needed full disengagement to find neutral, which could be frustrating. On mountain passes, the bike was enjoyable, with supple suspension and a flexible engine.
The author noted the bike’s weight made it difficult to maneuver off the side stand, especially on slopes, and required assistance twice during the trip. They also found the bike too hot in the 36°C weather, with the screen and aerofoils trapping engine heat, leading to mild heat stroke symptoms.
Verdict
The F900 GS Adventure is a capable tourer but feels tall and heavy for some riders. It competes with models like Triumph’s 900 Rally Pro, Suzuki’s V-Strom 1050 DE, Honda’s Africa Twin, KTM’s 890, and cheaper Chinese offerings. The author suggests the non-Adventure F900 GS might be more practical. They concluded the bike is best suited for tall, long-legged BMW enthusiasts who don’t mind the question: ‘Why didn’t you go for the 1300?’
Price: From £12,420. Capacity: 895cc. Max power: 105hp @ 8,500rpm. Max torque: 93Nm @ 6,500rpm. Top speed: Over 124mph. Seat height: 875mm. Claimed MPG: 64. Weight: 246kg.
