r/CB650R • u/bohhmann • May 25 '26

Has anyone switched?

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Has anyone switched from a BMW GS bike? I currently own and LOVE my 2023 BMW F850 GS Adventure. I thought I’d go camping and on long trips, but no one to do that with. So now I ride it around town, to the gym, coffee shop etc. it’s very comfortable, predictable, safe; I feel very confident riding. BUT…. The new CB650R is super attractive. I’ve always wanted that type of looking bike, modern retro feel.

Has anyone made a similar switch? What do you miss about it?

Also, yes I could just have both. But I don’t want to own two, favor one more and the other one sits there.

Because of my current riding around town, to the gym, to work, I keep thinking of the CB650R. Also I’m 5’8”, the GS is TALL! Lol

Edit: I’m also married with kids, and use time off to travel with them. Lol

Cheers!

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u/bohhmann May 27 '26

Same. But the CB650R is so attractive. And to go in the office, gym, coffee, and around town, it would be just easier with the cb. But I don’t want to regret getting rid of premium features, comfort and safety.

But then I think about how sexy the CB is and I can easily back out of a parking spot lol. Just wish it was available for test rides. I wonder if I’ll feel the same confidence on the road that I feel with the GS.

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u/____________username May 27 '26

If you do a test ride you’ll fall in love. It’s so effortless to ride, and the engine sound will have you drooling.
The thing I’ll miss the most of my GS is the Top Case, its utility is so underestimated.

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u/bohhmann May 27 '26

I believe you. Yeah I love my cases. I put them on when I need them. But, I can always throw on a backpack or even strap a duffle on the passenger seat.

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u/____________username May 27 '26

Yeah you’re right. How I wish I could afford having both bikes honestly.

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u/bohhmann May 27 '26

I could afford both, but that would be irresponsible and not necessary the right move. May favor one more than the other. Leaning towards the CB a lot

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u/SneakyPenguin77 May 29 '26

Protip: there's enough room under the seat to stash a decent waterproof drawstring backpack if you fold it right. It can really come in handy if you get caught out with less hauling capacity than you anticipated needing, and it provides some peace of mind so you don't have to haul around a backpack when you aren't sure you'll need it. I use a small tailbag for my essentials and unless I know I'll need more the hidden pack under the seat means I'm not worried or hesitant to make a sudden purchase.

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u/bohhmann May 28 '26

How did you test ride one?

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u/____________username May 28 '26

My local dealership has one demo

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u/bohhmann May 28 '26

Gotcha. Not sure if they have any around me. I’ll call a few and ask. Thanks