BMW R nineT – Iconic Retro-Modern Boxer Roadster

The BMW R nineT is a neo-classic naked bike that combines heritage boxer-engine charm with modern engineering. Renowned for its clean aesthetics and customization potential, the R nineT pairs timeless styling with solid performance and reliable mechanics—making it a favorite among enthusiasts and custom builders.


🌟 Key Highlights & Features

  • Engine: 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled flat-twin boxer engine with DOHC and twin spar mounting.

  • Power Output: ~109 hp (81 kW) at ~7,250–7,550 rpm, with ~116–119 Nm of torque at ~6,000 rpm.

  • Transmission / Drive: 6-speed manual gearbox, hydraulic dry clutch, and shaft final drive for low-maintenance operation.

  • Suspension: Upside-down 46 mm front fork; Paralever single-sided swingarm with adjustable preload and rebound.

  • Brakes: Twin 320 mm floating discs with 4‑piston radial calipers upfront; 265 mm rear disc with dual-piston caliper. Cornering ABS standard.

  • Wheels & Tires: 17″ cast alloy wheels; 120/70‑ZR17 front, 180/55‑ZR17 rear tires.

  • Instrumentation: Classic round analog tachometer and speedometer paired with a multifunction LCD screen (gear, fuel, trip, clock).

  • Lighting & Electronics: LED headlight and DRL, optional riding modes, stability control (ASC), traction control, USB socket; optional cornering lights and cruise control.

  • Customization-Friendly Design: Modular frame with removable pillion section, minimalist wiring, and accessible mounting points.


📊 Detailed Specifications Table

AttributeSpecification
Engine1,170 cc air/oil‑cooled boxer twin, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl.
Bore × Stroke101 × 73 mm
Compression RatioApprox. 12.0 : 1
Power~109 hp @ ~7,250 rpm
Torque~116–119 Nm @ ~6,000 rpm
Transmission6-speed, dry clutch, shaft drive
Front SuspensionUSD fork, 46 mm, fully adjustable (preload, compression, rebound), ~120 mm travel
Rear SuspensionParalever monoshock, adjustable rebound & preload, ~120 mm travel
Front Brakes2×320 mm discs, 4‑piston radial calipers
Rear Brake265 mm disc, 2‑piston floating caliper
ABS / StabilityDual-channel ABS standard, ASC/traction control optional
Wheels & Tire Sizes17″ alloys; 120/70‑ZR17 front, 180/55‑ZR17 rear
Seat Height~805 mm (31.7 in)
Wheelbase~1,487 mm
Dimensions (L×W×H)~2,105 × 865 × 1,240 mm
Wet / Dry Weight~221 kg / ~220 kg
Fuel Capacity~18 L (~5 US gal)
Top Speed~200–220 km/h

🧭 Rider Feel & User Experience

  • The boxer twin delivers a pronounced torque pulse and classic sound, ideal for relaxed cruising or spirited boulevard runs.

  • Upright ergonomics and mid‑mount controls provide a rider-friendly position for both short hops and longer rides.

  • Lightweight handling and balanced chassis make lane changes, slow-speed maneuvers, and urban riding feel effortless.

  • The bike’s minimalist style encourages customization—removable rear section, exposed trellis frame, and spare wiring paths.


🔧 Iconic Yet Modifiable

Delivered as a raw canvas, the R nineT is favored by custom builders for its:

  • Removable seat/cowl section.

  • Compact wire harness behind headlight.

  • Bolt-on parts (tank, rear subframe) easily switched.

  • Consistent classic lines: round headlamp, upright tank, exposed boxer cylinders.


✅ Summary

With its mix of classic aesthetics and modern capability, the BMW R nineT remains a benchmark for lovers of retro-styled motorcycles. It blends air‑cooled boxer charm with modern rideable reliability, accessible torque, and abundant customization potential.

Despite being succeeded by the newer R 12 nineT models, the original R nineT continues to captivate riders seeking an icon that’s ready to transform into a personal masterpiece.