What To Know
- The BMW R nineT Urban GS features a traditional telescopic fork up front and a monoshock at the rear, providing a comfortable and composed ride.
- The BMW R nineT Urban GS offers an upright and relaxed riding position, with a wide handlebar and a well-padded seat.
- It provides a solid balance of performance, style, and value, making it an attractive choice for riders on a tighter budget.
In the realm of modern retro motorcycles, two titans stand tall: the BMW R nineT Urban GS and the Triumph Street Scrambler. These machines embody the essence of adventure and nostalgia, offering riders a blend of classic styling with contemporary performance. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two iconic motorcycles, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and which one emerges as the ultimate choice for urban exploration and weekend getaways.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the BMW R nineT Urban GS lies a potent 1170cc air-cooled boxer engine, renowned for its smooth power delivery and throaty exhaust note. Producing 110 horsepower and 86 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides ample grunt for navigating urban landscapes and tackling light off-road trails.
In contrast, the Triumph Street Scrambler boasts a liquid-cooled 900cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 65 horsepower and 59 lb-ft of torque. While less powerful than the BMW, the Triumph’s engine exhibits a lively character and a distinctive soundtrack that complements its scrambler heritage.
Handling and Suspension
The BMW R nineT Urban GS features a traditional telescopic fork up front and a monoshock at the rear, providing a comfortable and composed ride. Its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel offer a balance of stability and agility, making it adept at maneuvering through city streets and tackling rough terrain.
The Triumph Street Scrambler employs a non-adjustable 41mm Showa fork and a preload-adjustable twin shock setup. While not as sophisticated as the BMW’s suspension, it provides a compliant ride that absorbs road imperfections effectively. Its 19-inch wheels at both ends contribute to its scrambler aesthetics and enhance its off-road capabilities.
Styling and Features
The BMW R nineT Urban GS exudes a classic enduro aesthetic, with its upright riding position, wire-spoke wheels, and minimalist bodywork. It comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and a comfortable seat for long-distance rides.
The Triumph Street Scrambler embraces a retro-inspired design, featuring a round headlight, bench seat, and high-mounted exhaust. It offers a more modern touch with its digital-analog instrument cluster, LED taillight, and optional accessories such as a luggage rack and sump guard.
Off-Road Capabilities
While both motorcycles are primarily designed for urban environments, they possess some off-road capabilities. The BMW R nineT Urban GS benefits from its longer suspension travel, providing a more comfortable ride on rough terrain. Its boxer engine’s low center of gravity contributes to its stability off-road.
The Triumph Street Scrambler’s shorter suspension travel and higher ground clearance make it more suitable for light off-roading. Its scrambler-inspired tires provide additional grip on loose surfaces, enhancing its overall off-road performance.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The BMW R nineT Urban GS offers an upright and relaxed riding position, with a wide handlebar and a well-padded seat. Its adjustable levers and footpegs allow riders to tailor the ergonomics to their preferences.
The Triumph Street Scrambler features a slightly more aggressive riding position, with a lower handlebar and a narrower seat. However, its suspension provides a plush ride, and its footpegs are positioned for a comfortable upright posture.
Price and Value
The BMW R nineT Urban GS carries a higher price tag than the Triumph Street Scrambler, starting at around $15,000. However, it offers a more powerful engine, a more sophisticated suspension, and a higher level of standard features.
The Triumph Street Scrambler starts at around $10,000, making it a more budget-friendly option. It provides a solid balance of performance, style, and value, making it an attractive choice for riders on a tighter budget.
Which Motorcycle is Right for You?
The BMW R nineT Urban GS is the ideal choice for riders seeking a powerful, versatile motorcycle with a classic enduro aesthetic. Its superior engine performance, sophisticated suspension, and comfortable ergonomics make it a formidable companion for both urban exploration and weekend getaways.
The Triumph Street Scrambler is a compelling option for riders prioritizing style, affordability, and off-road capabilities. Its charming retro design, lively engine, and impressive off-road performance make it a great choice for riders who value both aesthetics and practicality.
The Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the BMW R nineT Urban GS and the Triumph Street Scrambler boils down to personal preferences and riding style. Both motorcycles offer unique strengths and appeal to different types of riders. The BMW R nineT Urban GS represents the pinnacle of performance and versatility, while the Triumph Street Scrambler embodies the spirit of retro charm and off-road adventure.
Popular Questions
Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful?
A: The BMW R nineT Urban GS produces 110 horsepower, while the Triumph Street Scrambler produces 65 horsepower.
Q: Which motorcycle has a more comfortable ride?
A: The BMW R nineT Urban GS offers a more comfortable ride due to its longer suspension travel and adjustable ergonomics.
Q: Which motorcycle is better off-road?
A: The BMW R nineT Urban GS has a slight advantage off-road due to its longer suspension travel and lower center of gravity.
Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Triumph Street Scrambler starts at a lower price point than the BMW R nineT Urban GS.
Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Triumph Street Scrambler is generally more fuel-efficient than the BMW R nineT Urban GS due to its smaller engine.