Paolomeech's 2008 BMW F800ST

2008

BMW

F800ST

Champagne

I bought it in Adelaide in 2013 with 18,000km and sold it in 2017 with 70,000km. There were no panniers fitted - didn't want the oem panniers. I thought ST denoted Standard Tourer, rather then Sports Tourer - but loved the sleek lines, power delivery following my previous 650 single.

Used as a commuter and tourer. Did both well, but as a home mechanic, wasn't fond of the engine design. Incredibly fuel efficient and punchy in the 4,500+ rpm range.

Started with Michelin Pilot 3s , then Pilot 4's - both were excellent for longevity and wet-weather grip, right to the edge of the tyre.

Fitted an MV footpeg lowering kit - which integrated the existing pegs, requiring the brake lever to be modified (lowered). As they were lower and slightly wider, they used to grind often until I removed the pins underneath for better clearance.

Bar riser kit (2cm) allowed the wrists to relax, but needed to re-route the brake-lines and cables.

Tried a heavier weight oil, then swapped oem springs for progressive ones with heavier oil - this reduced the dive under braking and smoothed out the fork performance.

A Wilbers 640 rear spring with remote preload adjuster for ease of use really changed the suspension performance.

Grip-puppies. Givi 35L panniers on a modified/powder-coated Givi frame (standard they make the bike look like a pregnant wasp) -the modification brought the panniers down and in. Had to lower the exhaust can, but the overall look was better. Not for everyone, since the pannier brackets stayed on the bike.

Clearwater lights fitted to the front forks for better road presence (being seen in our misty, mountain weather)