In 2008, the German motorcycle manufacturer launched the BMW G650GS, which was basically a 2007 F650GS under a new name in the United States, China, Taiwan, Latin America, and Australia.
The bike was identical to the single-cylinder F650GS but featured some minor modifications, and the engine was no longer assembled by Rotax in Europe but by Loncin in China. In addition, the engine still used engine parts made by Rotax, and the engines were shipped to Germany, where the machines were assembled.
Compared to the F650GS models, the G650GS versions received some upgrades, such as a three hp more powerful engine and a more powerful alternator. Also, the bike was delivered with ABS and heated grips as standard equipment in the American and Australian markets.
In 2012, the German manufacturer added a more off-road-oriented machine to the range under the G650GS Sertao designation. The Sertao version filled the gap left by the F650GS Dakar model when it was discontinued in 2008.
In 2013, BMW launched the G650GS Sertao, an off-road motorcycle in its second year of production that featured as standard an aluminum engine guard, a high windscreen, hand guards, and an extended front mudguard.
In addition, the bike was also available with ABS, heated grips, Vario saddlebags, a top case, a tinted high windscreen, crash bars, and a taller seat.
At its core, the 2013 BMW G650GS Sertao had installed a 652cc four-stroke single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that delivered 50 hp at 7,000 rpm and 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) torque at 5,250 rpm.