2024 BMW R nineT Scrambler

Competitors for the R nineT Scrambler include its own sister model R nineT Urban G/S, as well as several editions of the Ducati Scrambler: Urban Motard, Desert Sled, and Fasthouse. Triumph’s Street Scrambler and Scrambler 1200 XC are also competitors.

Utilizing the previous-generation air/oil-cooled 1,170cc opposed-twin boxer engine with updated cylinder heads for improved combustion in order to pass stricter Euro 5 emissions regs, BMW is claiming 109 hp at 7,250 rpm with 85 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm for the newest R nineT. This is 1 hp down on the prior version, but BMW is claiming a marked increase in midrange power with peak power occurring 500 rpm sooner than the old version.

The Scrambler has some major differences from the standard R nineT or Pure models, starting with the larger 19-inch front wheel, more than two degrees increase in rake angle (28.5 degrees versus 26.8 degrees on the standard R nineT and 26.6 degrees on the Pure) for better stability off-road, and a wheelbase that’s more than an inch longer. This results in steering that’s noticeably heavier and more sluggish than the standard R nineT on the street, and if you choose the off-road Metzeler Karoo 3 rubber, even more so. Softer spring and damping rates in the suspension are quickly overwhelmed over sharp potholes and washouts if you try to push the pace in any way, either on or off-road.