BMW R nineT released for the 90th anniversary of BMW Motorrad division is the first German motorcycle tuned for customizing. But the features of this model do not end there.
   At first sight, you may feel apprehensive looking at the appearance of BMW R nineT: its kinda small, disproportionate, undressed – and 1,170 cm3 110 l boxer engine protruding sideways generally looking huge – somehow obscenely. Strange seating, uncomfortable when you sit on the bike for the first time, however surprisingly it nearly strikes you down when starting: a rotating longitudinal crankshaft perceptibly pushes the motorcycle to the right. No rolling motion is perceived on the go, but at a low speed somewhere in between traffic lanes you have to be careful with boosting – may accidentally kick an adjacent car with a cylinder.


   Surprisingly, despite its size and power, nineT does not require working hard with the clutch at low speeds, but waits patiently for accelerating and letting it rush right off the bat. Pick up at low speed and acceleration are crazy – almost tearing your hands and pulling you out of the seat! The designers cheated and gave R nineT a specific seating and a little more than absolutely missing windshield: be it a plastic sportbike with appropriate ergonomics, it would impress much less. But absolutely with no tricks, this bike bounces at the first gear, even with no need to quickly engage the clutch, just turn the handle.


   Zzzap – and no other road traffic users in rearview mirrors. Firstly, because the cars are left way behind, and secondly, because almost nothing is seen in standard mirrors, and no fine adjustment can be made. But as a true roadster, BMW R nineT does not need them. Apparently as suspension: on any irregularities the motorcycle sensibly kicks the biker. And the passenger seat is mounted here just habitually (it can be covered with a stylish aluminum onlay or removed together with the “tail” end): do not even think of taking a passenger with you! (If he is not your enemy). He will not enjoy the ride and deprive you of a fair share of a thrill – nineT is fun for one. Rev, vroom, make a zig: a rigid frame with a “bearing” engine, a telescopic upside-down fork as on S 1000 RR sport-bike, high-performance radial Brembo brakes (engage carefully!), Akrapovic silencers in standard configuration (!),lowermost center of gravity – that’s the talk! What to say, you got to ride it! However, you will not drive far because in a couple of hundred miles the above advantages will turn (not into a pumpkin, but) into distinct disadvantages: BMW R nineT is a roadster-café racer, it’s fun to take it for a ride downtown from one party to another and count friends you caused to be envious and nervous for the night. And you can also just ride alone, because both of you owe nothing to prove to anyone.
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