BMW Motorrad is set to reveal the F 450 R, a roadster based on the new 450cc platform, later today (October 1, 2026). Ahead of the same, the company has now released a video teaser showing the motorcycle’s silhouette and some design details. This video has confirmed that the new bike will be called the F 450 R. That would remind you of the G310 twins- the naked used to be called G 310 R whereas the adventure version had the name G 310 GS. A similar nomenclature is being followed with this motorcycle as well. Let’s now take a look at the roadster’s teaser.
This video shows the motorcycle in a dramatic dark-themed setting. Some of its design details like the prominent BMW badge, LED DRLs, and sharp body panels are visible. The video also shows the name ‘ F 450 R’ and Golden painted USD forks. From what we can see in this video, it looks like this motorcycle will come with an interesting design. The silhouette seems familiar- it has the signature BMW street bike stance and looks attractive even when none of its design details are visible. The adventure version, F450 GS, is already known for its sharp design and aggressive stance.
When launched, this roadster will compete with the likes of Aprilia Tuono 457 and KTM 390 Duke. It will be a road-focussed model with a compact footprint, compared to the GS. It is expected to come with a muscular fuel tank, compact headlamp area and front section, an underbelly exhaust, and a raised rear section.
The biggest mechanical highlight will be BMW’s 420cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. The same engine powers the F 450 GS, where it produces 48hp at 8,750rpm and 43Nm of torque at 6,750rpm.
It uses a 135-degree crankpin offset and comes with a six-speed gearbox and ride-by-wire technology. BMW could make changes to the throttle mapping or final gearing to suit the roadster character better. However, we don’t expect the power and torque figures to change drastically on the F 450 R. This is also because the 48hp output puts the bike within Europe’s A2 license category.
In India, BMW will manufacture this roadster locally. This should help it manage costs and prices effectively. BMW Motorrad makes the engine together with TVS Motor here in India. This will be of help in putting an attractive price tag around its shoulder.
The hardware on the F450 R will differ sharply from that on the F450 GS. The motorcycle will likely ride on 17-inch wheels shod with road tyres. The GS, on the other hand, has a 19-inch front wheel. The motorcycle will likely come withj a shorter-travel suspension as well. The steering geometry will have a road bias. The
The F 450 R is expected to borrow a large part of its features and electronics package from the adventure-focussed sibling. It is likely to get a 6.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, traction control, ABS Pro and multiple riding modes. Shift Assistant Pro could also be offered on higher variants. The exact equipment list will only become clear when BMW officially unveils the motorcycle.
Pricing will be critical in deciding the F 450 R’s fate here. The GS has a starting price of Rs Rs 4.95 lakh, ex-showroom, in India. The range-topping variant costs Rs 5.60 lakh, ex-showroom. The F 450 R could potentially start below the GS because it uses less bodywork and has a simpler suspension hardware. We will have to wait till launch to learn the exact variant details and prices. If priced around the low-to-mid Rs 4 lakh range, the F 450 R could sit close to the Aprilia Tuono 457.