Overall Ratings ★★★★★
| Ride: | ★★★★★ |
| Look: | ★★★★★ |
| Value for money: | ★★★★★ |
In a Nutshell
We took the new BMW retro machine for a long day ride to see if it is a Scrambler by all means.
BMW released the R nineT a few years ago to compete in the fast-growing new-retro sector. The success was over the charts. German quality and reliability with old boxer character and a canvas for the enthusiasts to modify. Now BMW created another retro machine. The R nineT Scrambler is, basically, an R nineT with GS wheels, conventional fork with longer travel [good-bye, golden usd] and a different riding position. So, is it a Scrambler by all means? It has all the elements to define this type of motorcycle, but can you go beyond the tarmac?
What We Liked
Classic and reliable at the same time, the efficient air-cooled boxer engine is the trademark of the BMW Motorrad. What else to use? With a high torque and a great sound, it develops at his peak 110HP. The 1170cc boxer proved itself on the former models and now meets the EURO 4 regulations. It keeps the same classic vibe and gives you a right push when you twist the throttle. The high mounted exhaust gives the Scrambler a full of character sound.
The scrambler is rough and simple, but the ABS is already mandatory for today’s motorcycles. Traction control can be optionally added for increased safety. Both the ABS and the Traction Control can be switched off. In the simple analog clock hides a small LCD with the essential information.
The feeling that comes with this bike is amazing. You may say it’s just a hipster bike, but you are wrong. Every time you get on the saddle is like seeking for a new adventure. You won’t feel any hunger or thirst and your only wish is to see the road going through the skyline. Imagine you’ll have a cigarette stop, but you won’t switch off the engine because you can’t get enough of that sound. Even a throttle blip will put a big smile on your face, and the “BRAP” that comes from the Akrapovic exhaust will give you goosebumps.
The controls have a nice position and the hydraulic clutch works amazingly easy. The gas tank gives you enough leg room.
The main feature of this motorcycle is the design. The high mounted exhaust, the clean look, and the adventure tires emphases a genuine scrambler. Who needs wind protection on this bike? You rather bravely accept the wind than add a windshield. BMW offers you the engine heat to keep your legs warm – at least in the city – and for the hands, you have the optional heated grips.
The new Scrambler inherits a lot from the R nineT Roadster. The handlebar, the engine, the frame, and the tank are the same. But instead of using aluminum for the fuel tank, BMW used steel for a lowered price tag. The intention was to cut the costs, but this doesn’t mean a lack of quality. The BMW craftsmanship and attention to detail can be admired from every corner. Everything is where it should be. The boxer engine made this bike even better looking. The dashboard is composed of a simple analog dial. Damn, it looks good. It’s blending perfectly between the Scrambler lines.
What We Disliked
The R nineT offers an upright and relaxed position that will allow you go until the road ends and beyond. Well, you may go along with the riding position, but not for long term use. Due to its threaded tires [Metzeler Karoo 3 – optional] it will easily handle any road, but the vibrations will become unbearable. On muddy surfaces, it will put your skills to the test. The suspensions are not designed for dual-sport use [they are very stiff] and the turning angle is not as large as you would expect.
The R nineT Scrambler has an upright riding position, and you can be sure you will get a sore bottom if you dare to ride it for long distances. This is not a touring motorcycle. Although it looks ready to eat as many miles as a standard roadster, the R nineT Scrambler has a stiff suspension, and you’ll get uncomfortable after 120 miles.
Raw Data
Base price: 13000$ / 13000€ Including ABS
Average fuel consumption in test 5,5 litres/100 km [42,73 mpg]. Sporty pace: 6 litres/100 km [39,17 mpg].
What about accessories, you ask? Tank Bag, Rear softbag, Aluminum tank hand brushed, Knee pads, Cylinder head covers, Matte, chrome-plated housing for the instrument cluster, End caps for the handlebars, Classic emblem, Cross-spoked wheels, HP Sports Silencer by Akrapovič, Bracket for the rear silencer, Cover for the main-frame threaded fastener, Exhaust manifold, chrome-plated, Scrambler seat, high, Scrambler single seat bench, Front seat R nineT, Custom rider’s seat, Custom passenger seat, Scrambler flyscreen, Heated handlebar grips, Holder for BMW Motorrad navigation system, Plastic cylinder-head cover guard, Aluminum cylinder-head cover guard, Aluminum engine guard, Headlight protector, Safety plug for oil filler neck, Anti-theft alarm… there is plenty to choose from.
| Year introduced | 2016 |
| Max power (horsepower, KW) | 110 hp (81 kw) |
| Max torque (NM, lb-ft) | 86 lb-ft (116 Nm) |
| Top speed (km/h, mph) | Over 125 mph |
| Engine (CC, CI) | 1,170 cc |
| Frame | Steel trellis / Aluminium swingarm |
| Weight (KG, Lbs.) | 485 lbs (220 kg) |
| Seat Height (CM, IN”) | 32.3″ (820 mm) |
| Front Brake | Twin-disc brakes, diameter 320 mm, 4-piston callipers |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 265 mm, double-piston floating caliper |
| Front Tire Size | 120/70 R 19 |
| Rear Tire Size | 170/60 R 17 |
| Front suspension | Telescopic forks with 43 mm fixed-tube diameter |
| Rear suspension | BMW Motorrad Paralever |
| Fuel Tank (L, Gal) | 4.5 gal (17 l) |
| Avg. fuel consumption (L/100 KM, MPG) | 5 |
| Safety | ABS |
| Price (EUR, USD) | 13.000$ / 13000€ |