BMW F650 SCARVER RealClassic
This F650CS, alias the Scarver, is a strong contender for the Marmite Award. Even my son, who kindly used his van to pick it up, said ‘you aren't getting THAT, surely?’ Kids can be so cruel. Talk about role reversal.
This model was designed at the end of the 1990s by American stylist David Robb, who had a part in creating the GS, K1600 and some Porsches. The Scarver was aimed at the commuter market, with novel, custom-fit soft luggage in the dummy fuel tank or rigid plastic storage boxes, even one fitted with hi-fi and speakers (although try finding one of those now). Different colour tank fairings and seat colour options were offered too.
The engine was the 652cc Rotax unit used in the F650 range from 1993, but the Scarver possesses unusual features which weren't all incorporated into the earlier Funduros or the GS models – belt drive, oil in frame, water cooling, under-seat petrol tank, single sided swinging arm, remote damper adjustment, cast wheels, USB socket on some models, fitted rear rack, heated grips, and a curved screen enclosing the headlights. There is an optional lockable lid for the fake petrol-tank space, or you could fit a lockable strap to secure your crash helmet. I bought one of these lids from Nippy Normans, if only to stop rain filling the void, and I am pleased with the finish
