What To Know
- In the realm of motorcycling, the BMW R NineT series has carved a niche for itself as a modern classic, offering a blend of retro styling and contemporary performance.
- The BMW R NineT Urban GS offers a comfortable and upright riding position, with a wide handlebar and a seat height that is accessible to riders of various heights.
- Whether you prefer the modern urban explorer aesthetic of the BMW R NineT Urban GS or the retro-inspired charm of the Scrambler, both models offer a unique blend of style, performance, and versatility.
In the realm of motorcycling, the BMW R NineT series has carved a niche for itself as a modern classic, offering a blend of retro styling and contemporary performance. Two standout models from this lineup are the Urban GS and the Scrambler, both designed to navigate urban landscapes with style and versatility. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the BMW R NineT Urban GS vs Scrambler, exploring their key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your riding needs best.
Design and Aesthetics
The BMW R NineT Urban GS embodies the essence of a modern urban explorer with its upright riding position, rugged styling, and distinctive beak-like front fender. Its blacked-out components, such as the engine, exhaust, and wheels, exude a stealthy and aggressive character. In contrast, the Scrambler embraces a more retro-inspired design with a high-mounted exhaust, wire-spoke wheels, and a brown leather seat, evoking the spirit of classic scramblers from the past.
Engine and Performance
Both the Urban GS and Scrambler share the same 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine, delivering ample power and torque for navigating city streets and occasional off-road excursions. However, subtle differences in engine tuning and gearing result in slightly different riding experiences. The Urban GS prioritizes low-end torque, making it easier to accelerate from a standstill and handle stop-and-go traffic. On the other hand, the Scrambler’s higher gearing provides more relaxed cruising at highway speeds.
Suspension and Handling
The BMW R NineT Urban GS features a long-travel suspension system with 4.7 inches of front and rear wheel travel, providing excellent comfort and stability on rough roads and off-road trails. Its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel offer a balanced combination of agility and stability. The Scrambler, with its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, provides similar handling characteristics but with a slightly more dirt-oriented setup. Its suspension offers 5.9 inches of front and rear wheel travel, making it better suited for tackling rougher terrain.
Features and Technology
The BMW R NineT Urban GS and Scrambler come equipped with a range of standard features, including anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and ride-by-wire throttle. Both models also offer optional extras such as heated grips, cruise control, and a quickshifter. However, the Urban GS features a more comprehensive electronics package, including a TFT instrument cluster with connectivity features, a keyless ignition system, and hill-start assist.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The BMW R NineT Urban GS offers a comfortable and upright riding position, with a wide handlebar and a seat height that is accessible to riders of various heights. Its footpegs are positioned slightly forward, allowing for a relaxed and commanding riding posture. The Scrambler, with its higher handlebars and more rearward-set footpegs, provides a more aggressive and sporty riding position.
Price and Value
The BMW R NineT Urban GS is priced slightly higher than the Scrambler, reflecting its more advanced electronics package and suspension system. However, both models offer exceptional value for money, combining classic styling, modern performance, and versatility in a package that is both practical and enjoyable to ride.
In a nutshell: The Ultimate Urban Explorer
Whether you prefer the modern urban explorer aesthetic of the BMW R NineT Urban GS or the retro-inspired charm of the Scrambler, both models offer a unique blend of style, performance, and versatility. The Urban GS excels in urban environments with its low-end torque and advanced electronics, while the Scrambler is better suited for riders who crave a more retro-inspired experience with enhanced off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual riding preferences and needs.
Popular Questions
Q: Which model is better suited for daily commuting?
A: Both the Urban GS and the Scrambler are excellent choices for daily commuting, offering a comfortable riding position and ample power. However, the Urban GS’s lower-end torque and comprehensive electronics package make it slightly more suited for stop-and-go traffic and urban environments.
Q: Can I take either model off-road?
A: Yes, both the Urban GS and the Scrambler are capable of handling light off-road trails. However, the Scrambler’s higher ground clearance and more dirt-oriented suspension make it better suited for more challenging off-road conditions.
Q: Which model has the higher top speed?
A: Both the Urban GS and the Scrambler have similar top speeds of around 120 mph. However, the Scrambler’s higher gearing may provide a slightly more relaxed cruising experience at highway speeds.