Much more than a styling exercise
At a glance1170cc - 110 bhp45 mpgMedium seat height (820mm)
3416
New: £10,530
Used: £10,500 to £11,100See all BMW R NINE T SCRAMBLERs for sale
Overall Rating5 out of 5
Don’t think of the Scrambler as a fashion bike, think of it as a great looking lightweight version of the GS that is pleasingly lacking in the fussy electronics that the latest water-cooled model is so adorned with but still delivering a comfortable riding stance and decent tank range. While ultimately this makes it less practical and a bit more demanding to ride as it lacks some creature comforts such as a proper screen, it also gives the Scrambler a special character and unique appeal all of its own.
Ride Quality & Brakes4 out of 5
The 19-inch front wheel is basically a fashion accessory, but BMW has ensured that this feature doesn’t detract from the Scrambler’s handling by giving it the same size tyres as the GS. These fatter tyres are very much road orientated and feel far more natural to riders who have grown up on 17-inch rubber, giving good front end feel. The seat isn’t the most comfortable, but it is ok for most uses.
Engine4 out of 5
The Scrambler retains all the spirit and character that epitomizes the R nineT Roadster. Not to mention a healthy 108.6bhp with 85.6lb.ft of torque. The air-cooled engine is far removed from its considerably more civilised water-cooled brother and it demonstrates this through a barrage of noise and vibrations that the current GS would certainly consider uncouth but suits the Scramber’s character perfectly.
Build Quality & Reliability4 out of 5
It’s an air-cooled BMW, so the engine is as solid as they come. The overall feel of the bike is one of quality and it is unusual for BMW to cut corners.
Insurance, running costs & value4 out of 5
At £10,530 the Scrambler is actually a pretty well priced BMW model, especially when you look at the competition. A Street Twin with a Scrambler inspoiration kit costs £9095 while the Ducati Scrambler is £8395 and both have less powerful motors.
Equipment4 out of 5
The Scrambler is designed to be stripped back and therefore you only get ABS as standard equipment and conventional forks instead of inverted items. If you want more bling, spoke wheels, traction control, heated grips and even a rev counter can be added via the parts and accessories catalogue.
