BMW F 650 GS twin and F 700 GS Key Replacement

Quick answerThe twin-cylinder F 650 GS and its successor the F 700 GS both have BMW's EWS immobilizer, unlike the older single-cylinder F 650 GS. A new key has to be cut and matched to the bike electronically. The ignition lock, tank or fuel filler cap lock and seat lock are all operated with the same key.

BMW F 650 GS twin and F 700 GS key quick facts

BMW's 2011 US rider's manual for the twin-cylinder F 650 GS lists two master keys and one emergency key.
The F 650 GS emergency key is described as small and light so it can be carried in a wallet, usable when no master key is available and not suitable for continuous use.
BMW's 2015 US rider's manual for the F 700 GS lists two ignition keys.
Both manuals say the ignition lock, tank or fuel filler cap lock and seat lock are operated with the same key.
Both bikes show a yellow warning with EWS in the display when the electronic immobilizer is active.

BMW F 650 GS twin and F 700 GS key types by year

Years	Models	Key type	Chip	Notes
2008-2012	F 650 GS (798 cc twin)	transponder key (EWS), keyed ignition	yes	Two master keys and one wallet emergency key. Not the same bike as the earlier single-cylinder F 650 GS.
2013-2018	F 700 GS	transponder key (EWS), keyed ignition	yes	Two ignition keys in the 2015 US manual.

Same name, different key: twin versus single

BMW used the F 650 GS name twice. From 2000 to 2007 it was a single-cylinder bike with a plain mechanical key. From 2008 it was a detuned 798 cc parallel twin built alongside the F 800 GS, and that bike has an EWS chip in the key. Advice written for one does not apply to the other, so check which bike you have before you call.

The quick check is the engine and the dash. Two exhaust header pipes and an EWS entry in the rider's manual mean the twin. If the bike is the single, the key is a simple cut key and our F 650 GS single and G 650 GS page is the one to read. The F 700 GS replaced the twin for 2013 and kept the same key principle.

Need a key for your F 650 GS (twin)?

Call or text with the year and where the bike is parked.

Call (619) 775-1858 Text your year, make and model

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How EWS shows itself on these bikes

The key carries a transponder and the ignition switch has a ring antenna around it. When the bike does not accept the key, the general warning lights up yellow and EWS is indicated in the display, and the manual's explanation is simply that the electronic immobilizer is active. The starter may be dead to the button or the engine may crank without firing.

BMW's manuals for both bikes repeat the house warning about a spare key attached to the same ring, which can upset the reading. They also explain that a lost key can be barred by a dealer, that you must bring all other keys belonging to the motorcycle when that is done, and that a barred key can be enabled again.

Seat, tank and luggage on one key

On these twins the fuel tank sits under the seat with the filler at the right rear, so the lock you use most after the ignition is the filler cap. The seat lock releases the seat, and on the F 700 GS the helmet holder is a steel cable arrangement that is only reachable with the seat off, so it depends on the seat lock too.

Cases are optional. BMW's manuals for both bikes say cases and a topcase can be ordered with locks for the same key on request. If yours were bought separately they may have their own key, and we can look at bringing them onto the bike key during the visit.

If the last key is gone

A twin-cylinder F 650 GS or F 700 GS without a recognized key will not run, so the job is a new transponder key matched to the bike, and usually a second one while we are there. BMW's dealer route is to prove ownership and order keys against the VIN, with the bike brought in.

For a mobile visit, tell us the year and whether it is the F 650 GS twin or the F 700 GS, and have photo ID with the registration or title. If you still hold the wallet emergency key from an F 650 GS, that counts as a working key: say so when you call, because adding keys to a bike that still has one is a simpler job than starting from none.

Where to find the key code

Neither manual mentions a key number tag for these EWS bikes. Replacement keys are tied to the VIN, so the registration or title is the document that matters.

What to have ready

Have this ready when you call or text

Year, make and model of the bike
Where the bike is parked
Whether you have any working key, a broken key or a key code
Photo ID and registration or title (we verify ownership before making a key)

BMW F 650 GS twin and F 700 GS key FAQ

Is the 2009 BMW F 650 GS key a chip key?

Yes, if it is the twin, which is what BMW sold under that name from 2008. Its manual has an EWS electronic immobilizer section and the key is read through a ring antenna in the ignition switch.

Can I ride my F 650 GS on the little wallet key?

It will start and run the bike, but BMW says the emergency key is for when no master key is available and is not suitable for continuous use. Use it to get home, then have a full-size key made.

How many keys should a used F 700 GS come with?

BMW's 2015 US manual says the F 700 GS is provided with two ignition keys. If a seller has only one, plan on having a second made soon after you buy.

The immobilizer system on this bike

BMW Motorcycle EWS Immobilizer: Keys and the EWS WarningEWS is BMW Motorrad's electronic immobilizer.

More BMW models

Services for this bike

Bought a Used Motorcycle With No Key? Here's What to DoA used or auction motorcycle without keys can usually get new ones, but plan on the full all-keys-lost process and bring the signed title or other transfer paperwork plus photo ID, since a locksmith or dealer has to tie you to the VIN.
Motorcycle Immobilizer Light Flashing: What It Means by MakeA slow flash with the ignition off is normal on a bike with an immobilizer: Honda HISS, Yamaha and Triumph manuals all describe the light blinking for 24 hours after you switch off to show the system is armed.
Adding a Spare Motorcycle Chip Key: Who Can Program It?First check that your bike has a chip at all: many Japanese motorcycles sold in the US use a plain key, and a spare for those is simply cut.
Lost the Key to Your Motorcycle Disc Lock or Chain?Start with the lock maker: most quality disc locks and chains come with a key number or code, and makers such as Kryptonite and Xena supply replacement keys against it.

Where we come to you

Sources

Page last updated November 14, 2026.