BMW R nineT 100 Years 2023 — Specifications

A number stands out with this motorcycle. 1923! It concerns its distribution, its near-rarity. Less than 2000 examples of this NineT will be produced. But why?!? There’s no connection to its displacement, nor its year of creation…

Because this motorcycle celebrates the centenary of BMW Motorrad. After the First World War, BMW was no longer allowed to produce aircraft engines (its main activity). So, the company started making motorcycles. In 1923, the R32 was launched, which propelled the German manufacturer into the booming two-wheeled world.

Following this episode of Maitre Capelo, let’s get to the point. The R NineT 100 Years is lavishly adorned to be worthy of the commemorations. A tuxedo is de rigueur, with chrome in abundance in place of white for the shirt. This finish, applied to the tank and the retro-sport seat cover, explodes with light for a display of tradition. An undeniable sparkle on a black coat, whispered with white pinstripes.

Remarkable, in the literal sense of the word. But before showing off its talents and the impulses of its 109 horsepower boxer engine, the R NineT highlights the "Options 719" it has treated itself to. Among these, the milled aluminum valve covers are the most visible. They are part of the "Shadow Billet Pack," also including an engine casing cover, saddle supports and an oil filler cap benefiting from the same treatment.

To this is added the second pack of milled parts "Shadow," with adjustable rider levers and footpegs, handlebars-end mirrors, jar covers (clutch and brake) and passenger footpegs.

The rims are also "Options 719." They seem identical to the spoked wheels of the standard NineT. But looking closely, one discovers different spoke fixings, and above all, a Tubeless tire fitment. As a bonus, a gain of 3 kilos on the unsprung masses. The 100 Years edition also has knee grips, a black/oxblood two-tone seat and the PRO finish level. Technology enthusiasts will be able to appreciate the cruise control, the Pro Riding Modes, the adaptive cornering headlight, the onboard alarm, the traction control (in place of the ASC anti-slip control), the engine torque regulation and the heated grips.

In total, the now most luxurious of the R NineT offers 3 Riding Modes (Rain / Road / Dyna), active Curve ABSPro, a USB socket, the electronic incrementation seen in the previous chapter, and the series model equipment: S 1000 R adjustable fork from everywhere, Brembo brakes with 4 pistons on 320 mm discs, monobrach with cardan transmission, removable passenger frame and double lateral silencer.

In the center of the tank, between the chrome shoulder blades, a badge celebrates this neo-retro roadster. As a limited series, highly equipped, the R NineT 100 Years takes a serious hit on the price. A preference for custom?!? No problem, the R18 also exists in a 100 Years version. Another trip for other roads.

M.B. - Photos constructeur