BMW scrambler will be cheaper entry-level R nineT

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A NEW BMW R nineT scrambler will undercut the existing model to make a cheaper-entry level version of the retro boxer 1200.

BMW revealed the R nineT scrambler on Thursday at the Wheels & Waves custom bike festival in Biarritz, France. It was unveiled as a concept, fitted with custom parts from Roland Sands Design, but it's actually a preview of a new edition of the R nineT and the key changes lie in cheaper suspension and brakes.

A right-way-up Öhlins fork has replaced the upside-down one of the model currently on sale.

The existing R nineT's radial-mounted Brembo monobloc front brake set-up has been substituted with lower-spec Brembo calipers. The scrambler's piggy-back Öhlins shock is also new.

The scrambler's fuel tank is steel where the current R nineT's is aluminium.

No price has been announced but it's anticipated the scrambler will be around £1,000 cheaper than the current R nineT, which starts at £11,750 on the road.

BMW's decision to unveil 'Concept Path 22' at Wheels & Waves suggests one intention is to provide a cheaper starting point for customisers wishing to modify an R nineT.

The concept is equipped with a system for carrying a surfboard, a tradition of Wheels & Waves, which takes the latter part of its name from Biarritz's popularity as a surfing resort.

The bike was later put on display with the surfboard removed.

BMW was making no secret of it being a preview of a production model. Ralf Rodepeter, BMW Motorrad's head of marketing, called it a ‘communication of the future,’ adding: ‘When we do a concept it's a sign of something that's coming.'

BMW’s press release on the concept made no mention of the lower-spec suspension and brakes, instead focusing on the paintwork by artist Ornamental Conifer and the choice of name.

The release said: ‘The name "Path 22" refers to one of the insider secrets among Europe's surf spots. This particular stretch of beach is inaccessible to cars, located on the Atlantic coast of southern France, half an hour's walk through one of Europe's biggest pine forests. The path leading to this spot bears the number 22.’

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