New BMW F 450 R Naked Bike Debuts with 48-hp Parallel-Twin

BMW Motorrad has officially presented the new BMW F 450 R, a lightweight naked bike designed for the A2 license class. Unveiled on October 1, 2026, this model emphasizes agility and performance, featuring a newly developed 420 cc parallel-twin engine. It aims to deliver a dynamic riding experience with a focus on accessibility and modern technology.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the new BMW F 450 R is a 420 cc parallel-twin engine, specifically tuned for road use. This fuel-injected unit, first seen in the F 450 GS, generates 35 kW (48 hp) at 8,750 rpm and 43 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. Its design incorporates a 135-degree crankpin offset and a balance shaft for smooth operation and a distinctive sound, all while meeting Euro 5+ emissions standards.

The engine's design prioritizes accessible power delivery, with 80 percent of its maximum torque available from just 3,000 rpm, ensuring strong acceleration from low speeds. This makes the F 450 R one of the more compact and powerful options in the A2 parallel-twin segment. Fuel efficiency is rated at 3.8 liters per 100 km, and with a 14-liter fuel tank, the motorcycle offers a range exceeding 350 km.

Chassis, Brakes, and Rider Aids

The BMW F 450 R utilizes a chassis concept derived from the F 450 GS, adapted for road performance. It features a tubular steel space frame where the parallel-twin engine acts as a load-bearing element, contributing to high rigidity and precise handling. The front wheel is controlled by a 43 mm KYB upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear uses an aluminum hollow-cast double-sided swingarm with a directly mounted KYB central spring strut.

Standard safety and rider aid systems include BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and engine drag torque control (MSR). The motorcycle also comes with "Rain," "Road," and "Dynamic" riding modes. For enhanced shifting, the Shift Assistant Pro allows for clutchless upshifts and downshifts, available on all but the base model, where it can be retrofitted. An optional Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) further simplifies clutch operation, particularly in urban environments.

Braking performance is managed by a floating single-disc brake with a Brembo four-piston monobloc caliper and a 310 mm disc at the front, complemented by a 240 mm rear disc with a ByBre single-piston caliper. The BMW Motorrad ABS Pro system provides lean-sensitive braking for increased safety during cornering.

Ergonomics and Connectivity

Ergonomics on the BMW F 450 R are designed for both comfort and agile control, featuring a tapered aluminum handlebar and a bodywork shape that provides good knee grip. The standard seat height is 790 mm, with optional low (775 mm) and high (810 mm) seats available to accommodate various rider preferences. Forged aluminum components are used for the gearshift lever, footbrake lever, and side stand, optimizing weight.

The motorcycle is equipped with full LED lighting, including a distinctive LED headlight with bracket-shaped daytime running lights. A 6.5-inch TFT display serves as the central interface, offering clear information and intuitive operation. This display includes the Pure Ride Screen as standard, with M Sport variants gaining additional Sport screens for detailed data like DTC, braking force, lean angle, and a lap timer. Connectivity features allow for phone calls, music streaming, and navigation, supported by a practical USB-C port in the cockpit.

The introduction of the BMW F 450 R expands BMW Motorrad's naked bike offerings, providing a new option for riders seeking a lightweight, agile, and technologically equipped motorcycle in the A2 license class. Its combination of a potent parallel-twin engine, advanced rider aids, and customizable ergonomics positions this BMW F 450 R naked bike as a competitive choice in its segment.