BMW R nineT revealed

October 16, 2013

As its name suggests, the R nineT has been created to celebrate ninety years of BMW motorcycles. A naked, pared-down roadster, the new bike mixes retro styling details with modern technology.

At first glance, the design elements that immediately stand out are the single circular headlight, wire-spoke wheels with their black anodised rims, partly-painted brushed aluminium fuel tank and twin-silencer exhaust system.

But the most novel aspect is actually the rear end. A removable pillion frame means the machine can be configured for solo or two-up riding, while an aluminium tail cover gives a traditional café racer look.

Indeed, one of the key attributes of the R nineT that BMW seems keen to emphasise is customisation. Buyers will be able to choose from a wide range of options and special accessories, including a wider rear wheel and an Akrapović titanium exhaust silencer that can be mounted either high or low.

The flat boxer-twin engine and shaft drive combination has served BMW very well since 1923, so naturally the R nineT employs such a powertrain too. Its air / oil-cooled 1,170 cc motor, which develops 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) and 119 Nm (88 lb/ft) of peak torque, is taken from the R 1200 R.

Less conventional is the suspension set-up. Unlike the R 1200 R (or any other current R Series bike), the R nineT dispenses with the familiar anti-dive telelever arrangement at the front. Instead, the upside-down fork usually found on the S 1000 RR is used. It’s complemented by twin floating disc brakes with radial four-piston calipers.

UK sales of the R nineT are due to begin next March. Pricing will be announced at the Motorcycle Live show, which takes place in November.