For the upcoming 2021 season, BMW has announced updates to the R nineT range, including its R80GS-inspired variant — the Urban G/S. Changes include a refreshed engine, a revised rear shock, and an extended range of standard and customizable equipment. The Urban G/S model also receives new livery and a “40 Years GS” limited-edition version to celebrate the GS legacy started in 1980.  

At the heart of the R nineT is an updated 1,170cc boxer engine to meet Euro 5 emissions requirements. Peak power is now 109 hp, slightly down from 110 hp but it arrives 500 rpm sooner at 7,250 rpm. Although maximum torque is still 86 ft-lbs at 6,000 rpm.

The 2021 model also receives new cylinder heads, new throttle valve components and a new turbulence system. According to BMW, these modifications have resulted in a more efficient and cleaner combustion as well as a more full-bodied torque curve from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm

Even in the standard version, the new R nineT Urban G/S now features ABS Pro in combination with DBC (Dynamic Brake Control) for increased safety when braking. Standard features also include a new shock absorber with travel-dependent damping (WAD) and a new easily accessible hand wheel for adjustment of spring preload. “Rain” and “Road” riding modes are now included as standard, too.

The standard trim now includes a circular instrument with a newly designed dial featuring the BMW logo as well as indicator lights that are “invisible” when not illuminated. In addition the new model now has a headlamp and white indicator lights in LED technology as well as  a USB charging socket.

Riding Modes Pro with the additional mode “Dirt” for the R nineT Urban G/S are now available as new individual options, as are DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and engine drag torque control (MSR). Another new option is the Comfort Package, comprising Riding Modes Pro, cruise control and heated handlebar grips. The turning light and the rear silencer design option are likewise new to the range of individual optional extras.

Meanwhile the traditional “Option 719” offers exclusive options for customization of the R nineT to suit the owner’s personal taste. This range of parts now includes various wheels, milled parts packages and – from the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories range – a rear conversion with short rear end and number plate holder behind the rear wheel, as well as a rear end in tracker style (Tracker rear end). 

In addition to new standard and optional paint finishes, BMW is also unveiling a Bumblebee-inspired R nineT Urban G/S limited edition. The “40 Years GS” model is based on the legendary R100GS to mark the anniversary of the GS family.

Highlights of the new BMW R nineT:

• Air/oil-cooled boxer engine with new cylinder heads for further increased torque in the mid-range as well as compliance with the EU-5 emissions.
• 80 kW (109 hp) 7,250 rpm and 86 ft-lbs (116 Nm) at 6000 rpm.
• Cylinder head, cylinder head cover and throttle valve parts all in a new design.
• ABS Pro with DBC (Dynamic Brake Control) for greater safety when braking in banking position.
• New suspension strut with travel-dependent damping (WAD).
• Hand wheel for adjusting the spring preload on the shock absorber as standard.
• Riding modes “Rain” and “Road” as standard.
• Optional “Dirt” Mode.
• Classically designed circular instrument with new dial.
• White LED indicators as standard.
• LED headlights incl. daytime running light/parking light as standard.
• USB charging socket as standard.
• New livery plus limited-edition “40 Years GS” model.
• New optional equipment.

BMW R nineT Urban G/S Specs