Different but still classic style
URBAN G/S: ENDURO-STYLE WITH BOXER ENGINE
Taking the genes of the first 1980 BMW R 80 G/S into the modern era.
When BMW launched the R nineT in 2013, it was clearly more than just a roadster based on a classic role model. From the outset, the R nineT combined classic motorcycle design and modern technology with sophisticated craftsmanship, as demonstrated by the aluminium fuel tank with brushed side surfaces for example.
The new R nineT Urban G/S is quite different in style but equally classic in character. For more than 35 years, the abbreviation GS in conjunction with BMW Motorrad has become synonymous with freedom and the passion for adventure, both on-road and offroad.
The R nineT Urban G/S draws on the genes of the first 1980 BMW R 80 G/S, transporting them into the modern era with contemporary technology in the form of a classic enduro-style BMW motorcycle with boxer engine. The new BMW Heritage model features the potent, air/oil-cooled boxer engine with a capacity of 1 170 cc and an output of 81 kW combined with a 6-speed gearbox. Its exhaust system is in stainless steel with the tailpipe positioned on the left reflects classic styling.
Modular frame concepts provide great scope for altering the appearance and character of the two BMW boxer models according to individual preference, for example by adding different seats from the range of BMW Motorrad accessories.
In the R nineT Urban G/S the frame consists of three components: a front and rear main frame with integrated end piece and a passenger frame. There is a conventional telescopic fork at the front while the BMW Paralever is applied in conjunction with a central spring strut at the rear, as in the R nineT.
The R nineT Urban G/S has cross-spoke wheels. The large 19– inch front wheel with 120/70 ZR 19 tyre is in keeping with the typical enduro-style look of a classic bike. This is matched perfectly at the rear with a 17-inch wheel bearing a 170/60 ZR 17 tyre.
The new BMW boxer can be ordered ex works with the optional extra of deep-treaded off-road tyres that enhance its classic style (standard trim: road tyres).
With four-piston brake calipers, steel-wrapped brake lines and a brake disc diameter of 320 millimetres, a high-performance ABS brake system here again ensures effective and stable deceleration. To stop the rear wheel spinning on slippery roads, there is the option of ASC (Automatic Stability Control).
A look at the R nineT Urban G/S reveals it to be the spitting image of its ancestor, and it even reproduces the latter’s colour concept virtually without alteration. Just like more than 35 years ago, the fuel tank and the high-positioned front mudguard are finished in striking Lightwhite non-metallic, with a matching headlamp mask whose styling is geared entirely towards the BMW G/S style of that era.
As before, the R nineT Urban G/S features fuel tank decor in two tones of blue and a two-man seat in bright red – a colour combination that interprets the BMW Motorsport colours of former years. This echoing of past times is supported by a frame finished in black.
Matching the headlamp mask, the instrument cluster consists of a speedometer designed as an analog circular instrument, indicator lamps and a two-line LCD screen. High-end details include the numerous aluminium forged parts such as fork bridges and the clamp for the aluminium handlebars. The front splash guard is attached to the lower fork bridge, conveying a classic enduro style.