BMW nineT brings retro to a new level

As part of BMW Motorrad’s 90th Anniversary, it has launched a new model with a very old-school look called the R nineT – a clever play on words as a hat tip to the original R90. Using the air and oil cooled 1,170cc boxer engine, it produces 110hp while the 119Nm should ensure that it clips along nicely.

RnineT-engine

The whole look of the nineT lends itself to being modified by owners in order to add a touch a individualism to each bike. BMW will of course be offering a range of accessories but it won’t be long before other aftermarket specialists will be rolling out alternative options for the image-conscious biker. Owners will be able to change the nineT from a single seater to pillion friendly setup by means of a removable frame, but many will prefer the solo look, particularly with the aluminium tail cover which completes the café racer image.

RnineT-rear-frame

RnineT-pillion-seat

RnineT-side

In keeping with the retro styling, the nineT has twin-stacked exhausts on the left side but BMW in conjunction with Akrapović, a titanium variant which has both a short and long link pipe will be offered, allowing buyers to alter how it is mounted, therefore changing the overall look of the bike.

RnineT-rear

It isn’t all retro with the nineT either, the front end is dominated by the inverted telescopic forks from the S 1000 RR superbike. The gold fork legs stand out quite but are in keeping with what a lot of home-builds resemble these days while also forming a nice juxtaposition to the traditional wire wheels which are laced onto black rims and hubs. Radial four-piston brake callipers ensure that the R nineT will be more than able to pull up ample distance.

RnineT-front

The sides of the 18-litre fuel tank have a brushed aluminium finish which has been clear-coated. Other parts such as the yokes and handlebar clamps are fabricated from forged aluminium and are glass bead-blasted to give an anodised finish. An aluminium plate embossed with nineT lettering sits just above the air intake duct and adds to that hand-built feel.

RnineT-seathump

Purists will no doubt try to find fault with the nineT from a styling perspective, but when simply taken at face value for what it is – a homage to an illustrious past – BMW Motorrad shouldn’t find it too hard to find plenty of garages for this beautifully retro motorcycle.

@LordHumphreys