EICMA 2015: BMW introduces RnineT Scrambler

The BMW RnineT is nothing short of a custom builder’s paradise, perfect for those who wish to build their own tailor-made motorcycle. Over the past year, we have been seeing the RnineT being customised into different types of avatars by bike builders from all over the world. This time around, BMW Motorrad has used this canvas to draw up a neo-retro version of the bike, aptly christened the RnineT Scrambler.

While the motorcycle is still identifiable as a BMW RnineT, partly due to the boxer engine, it gets a host of classic styling cues like black bellows, competition plate (for racing numbers), round instrument console and sculpted steel tank. It also gets a few rugged elements like a belly pan, headlamp grille and knobbly Metzler tyres. The chromed exhaust manifolds merge into a single high positioned Akrapovic canister and the bodywork has been kept to a minimum.

The handlebar has been moved closer to the rider, footpegs have been lowered, and the ride height has been increased by 35mm. This offers an upright riding position for the rider, which should help make it friendlier for moderate off-roading.

The front 17-inch wheel has been replaced with a larger 19-inch one while the USD forks supporting it have also been ditched in favour of conventional telescopic ones. These new forks have 20mm more travel than the previous ones while other adjustments elsewhere have increased the wheelbase by 51mm.

Powering the RnineT Scrambler is the same 1170cc air-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine, which delivers 110bhp and 116Nm of torque. ABS is offered as a standard fitment though traction control is an optional extra.

It is pretty clear that BMW had set out to counter the Ducati Scrambler with this RnineT Scrambler.  However, in view of other recent launches, the competition seems to have heated up, with Yamaha, Moto Guzzi and Triumph joining the fray more recently. We can expect BMW to offer a host of optional accessories for the RnineT. Stay tuned for a detailed picture gallery.