Bringing a whole new unique riding experience, the BMW R nineT is not only a head turner, but also a bike that matches its rich history of purebred BMW Motorrad.

The past weekend I had the privilege to experience the R nineT at first hand and being an eight-teen year-old bike enthusiast I was opened to a whole new part of motorcycling.

Firstly this is an easy bike to ride. Being quite a heavier bike than what I am used to, at 208kg it still offers great handling assisted by its low centre of gravity and the wide handlebar makes it so much easier when leaning into corners. The ABS assisted braking (standard) responds beautifully at almost any speed and the same could be said about the throttle response.

Secondly, she’s got the power. And let me just clarify, 110hp &119 nm of torque at 6000 rpm coming from BMW’s signature 1200 flat-twin “Boxer” motor that forms the heart of this elegant beast, makes it hard to keep both wheels on the ground in first and second. But no matter which gear you’re in she’ll always seem to surprise you when you drop you’re wrist. Unfortunately great power comes with a correlating fuel bill. Something which I noticed quite surprisingly when I saw the rate at which the fuel indicator dropped. Your riding style will ultimately dictate just how far you’ll make it on a tank. My opinion! “Who cares about fuel when you’re having so much fun?”

Last but not least, the R nineT is an urban day to day motorcycle. Built to turn heads as you cruise by and offers that sporty side when you feel like playing around in the higher revs or just doing the occasional Sunday “breakfast run” with the boys. Though you can go touring with the R nineT I wouldn’t recommend it. The unique slightly forward riding position and seat aren’t the most comfortable when putting in the longer distances and whether protection is concerned, there isn’t any which makes high speed driving a tad bit unpleasant.

Overall the BMW R nineT still makes a name for itself and what a name that is. A classic rertrostyle motorcycle with the performance of a street racer and she offers all the modern features that are to be expected from a BMW.  A bike to admire.

My advice? “Don’t ride one, you’ll want one!”

Thanks To Ultimate Drive for this experience!

Review by Jean D Gous.