Can you ride the BMW G650GS on an A2 licence?

Yes, you can ride the BMW G650GS (2011 onwards) on an A2 motorbike licence. There is no restriction required, as the motorcycle is fully A2 licence compliant!

BMW G650GS (2011 onwards) motorcycle

BMW G650GS (2011 onwards)

The GS650GS is an entry-level adventure bike built by the well known, BMW Motorrad.

It succeeded the old G650 and hugely popular BMW F650GS single-cylinder bikes. As it’s a redevelopment of two previous bikes, the development costs were quite low, making it not just the cheapest BMW you can buy but one of the cheapest big bikes.

Sadly for BMW, where the F650GS captured the public’s imagination, the G650GS flew under the radar and lasted just six years until it was discontinued.

Its failure was nothing to do with the bike, its performance or ride quality. So, what made this A2 bike fail?

The 2008 financial crisis was most certainly one of the biggest factors. However, there was also the fact that BMW launched the parallel-twin F-series bikes with their enhanced practicality and improved rider-assists.

The 652cc BMW G650GS is a fun bike to ride, offers great handling, and most importantly, it can be ridden on an A2 licence when restricted to the A2 requirement by a minor 5%.

A2 Licence Compliance

The BMW G650GS is a 652cc A2-friendly bike. It has a power output of 35 kW (47 bhp), which is within the 35 kW (47 bhp) limit needed for an A2 licence. No restriction is required, as the bike is fully A2 licence compliant.

TitleSpec
ManufacturerBMW
CategoryAdventure
Touring
Engine typeSingle Cylinder
Engine strokes4-Stroke
Engine size652cc
Power output35 kW
Torque output44 ft-lb
Top speed105 mph
Horsepower47 bhp
Weight192 kg
Seat height780 mm
Front tyre size190/90-19
Rear tyre size140/80-17
Fuel tank size14 litres
Fuel tank range184 miles
Fuel consumption59 mpg
Oil capacity2.3 litres
Annual road tax£117
Price£6,300
Overall rating