Everyone loved its ease of use, however. You can ride away immediately, with no hint whatsoever of traditional carburetor stumble. The 850's handling is on par with what we found in our test of the R1100R , although the 850 seems to have a lighter feel about it. As with the 1100, the 850's suspension is tuned for comfort, not sport. The bike will wallow and move about if pushed hard into turns, but decent ground clearance and the renowned traction of the stock Bridgestone Battlaxes help keep the confidence level high.
Shaftdrive effect is negligible, and engine vibration is only noticeable at low engine speeds.
BMW is offering its ABS system, standard equipment on the R1100R, as an option on the 850. Typical German quality is everywhere. The unusually-shaped gearshift lever is short and stubby, making it difficult to get your foot under for an upshift with heavy riding boots on. A beginning motorcyclist is not likely to be able to fork out that kind of dough for their first bike. One who just might have a four-wheeled BMW already in the garage.