Best Exhaust Upgrades for the BMW F800 GS and G650 GS

by Euro Motards Performance

The BMW F800 GS and G650 GS occupy a unique position in the adventure bike segment — they're genuinely capable off-road machines that are also comfortable on long motorway stints. The single-cylinder G650 GS is particularly popular as a lightweight, nimble alternative to larger adventure tourers, while the parallel-twin F800 GS offers more power with similar versatility.

Both bikes have solid aftermarket exhaust support, and an exhaust upgrade is one of the most popular first modifications for GS owners. Here's what to consider.

Why Upgrade the Exhaust on a BMW GS?

The stock exhausts on both the F800 GS and G650 GS are designed to meet EU noise and emissions regulations, which means they're heavily silenced and relatively heavy. The benefits of an aftermarket upgrade include:

  • Weight saving — the stock exhaust systems on GS bikes are notably heavy due to their catalytic converters and multi-chamber silencers. Aftermarket slip-ons can save 2–5 kg, improving the bike's handling balance.
  • Sound — adventure riders often want a more characterful exhaust note, particularly for the single-cylinder G650 where the stock exhaust is deliberately muffled
  • Aesthetics — replacing the stock can with a compact stainless or titanium alternative improves the look, particularly useful if the stock system has accumulated road grime or corrosion

Slip-On vs. Full System for the GS

For most GS owners, a slip-on exhaust is the right choice. The F800 GS and G650 GS are road and trail bikes used over long distances — the additional installation complexity and cost of a full system typically isn't justified unless you're competing or riding extensively on track.

A quality slip-on will:

  • Bolt directly to the existing headers with no cutting or welding required
  • Save 2–4 kg over the stock silencer
  • Produce a noticeably improved sound character
  • Cost significantly less than a full system

Full exhaust systems do exist for both models and provide the maximum weight saving and performance gain. These make most sense for riders who have stripped weight elsewhere and want maximum return from every modification.

GPR Exhausts for the BMW F800 GS and G650 GS

GPR produces a well-regarded range of exhaust systems for both the F800 GS and G650 GS. Key options include:

For the BMW G650 GS / Sertão (2011–2016)

The single-cylinder G650 GS responds well to an exhaust upgrade — the stock silencer is particularly conservative in its tuning. GPR's Trioval and M3 Inox series are available as direct-fit slip-ons that deliver a deeper, more characterful single-cylinder sound. Both are available in road-legal (homologated) configuration.

For the BMW F800 GS (2008–2018)

The parallel-twin F800 GS has a wider range of aftermarket exhaust options. GPR offers both slip-on and full system alternatives. The slip-on options typically mount to the existing mid-pipe in the standard underseat configuration and maintain the OEM look while improving sound and reducing weight.

Road-Legal Considerations for EU and UK Buyers

If you ride your F800 GS or G650 GS on public roads in Europe or the UK, you need a road-legal exhaust. This means:

  • The system should have EC type approval (an EC homologation certificate)
  • It should meet the noise limit applicable when the bike was registered (typically 80–85 dB)
  • Emissions standards (Euro 3/4 where applicable) should be maintained

GPR's homologated systems include the relevant documentation. Always check the product description before ordering — non-homologated "race" or "competition" systems are not road-legal and should only be used on closed circuits.

Installation Notes

Fitting a slip-on exhaust to the F800 GS or G650 GS is typically a 30–60 minute job requiring only basic tools:

  • Allow the original exhaust to cool completely before starting
  • Remove the original silencer clamp bolt(s) and slide the old can off the mid-pipe
  • Slide the new silencer onto the mid-pipe and tighten the clamp to the specified torque
  • For some installations, a new exhaust gasket/seal is recommended — check whether one is included

Tip: if your GS has been standing over winter, spray the clamp bolt threads with penetrating oil a few hours before attempting removal — corrosion between the clamp and the pipe is common on bikes used in wet conditions.

Finding the Right Fitment

The F800 GS was produced in multiple versions (standard, Adventure, and later with ABS) with minor specification differences across model years. When selecting an exhaust, always check that the fitment specifically covers your:

  • Engine displacement (F800 GS vs. F700 GS vs. G650 GS — these are different bikes with different exhaust specs)
  • Model year (pre- and post-facelift bikes may have different mounting points)
  • Territory specification if relevant (some markets had slightly different stock exhaust configurations)

Browse our full range of BMW exhaust systems at Euro Motards Performance, with fitment-verified listings for the F800 GS, F700 GS, G650 GS, and more.

Back to News