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Naked Motorcycles

2018BMW R Ninet Racer

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The 2018 BMW R nineT Racer is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic aesthetics with modern performance. Known for its nimble handling, manageable 220 kg weight, and efficient boxer engine, it excels as both a weekend cruiser and spirited canyon carver. The upright riding position and accessible 805 mm seat height make it approachable for varied rider builds and experience levels.

Capacity: 1170.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 220.0 kg
Seat height: 805 mm
Power: 110.0 HP (80.3 kW) @ 7750 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2018 BMW R Ninet Racer

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Engine capacity	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.0 ccm (71.40 cubic inches)
Power	110.00 HP (80.3 kW) @ 7750 RPM	110.0 HP (80.3 kW) @ 7750 RPM
Torque	116.00 Nm (11.8 kgf-m or 85.6 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM	116.0 Nm (11.8 kgf-m or 85.6 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Top speed	—	200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)
Fuel capacity	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)
Wheelbase	1,491 mm (58.7 inches)	1491 mm (58.7 inches)
Cooling	Oil & air	Oil_air

Other years 2017 2018 2019

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering82%

City riding62%

Daily riding50%

Touring35%

Two-up25%

Track60%

Best for: Designed for spirited weekend rides, twisty backroads, and short sporty commutes rather than long-distance touring or off-road use.
Built for: A characterful, retro-styled naked bike with a distinctive boxer engine feel, strong midrange torque, and sharp, engaging handling for a bike in its class.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking upright comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, long-haul touring capability, or any off-road versatility.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 805mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 BMW R Ninet Racer, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1170.0 ccm
Power: 110.0 HP (80.3 kW) @ 7750 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 3 CO2 g/km
Torque: 116.0 Nm (11.8 kgf-m) @ 6000 RPM
Engine type: Boxer twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.30 litres/100 km (18.9 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.5000 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 101.0 x 73.0 mm
Compression: 12.0:1
Cooling system: Oil_air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated

Performance

Top speed: 200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)
0-60 mph: 3.10 seconds

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1491 mm
Overall length: 2105 mm
Overall width: 920 mm
Overall height: 1105 mm
Seat height: 805 mm
Wet weight: 220.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Reserve fuel capacity: 3.00 litres
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Three-section frame consisting of one front and two rear sections, load-bearing engine-
Front suspension: Telescopic forks with 43 mm fixed-tube diameter
Rear suspension: Cast aluminium single swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever
Front wheel travel: 125 mm
Rear wheel travel: 120 mm
Rake (fork angle): 26.4°
Trail: 104 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Floating disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rear brakes diameter: 265 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Light White

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2017	2018	2019
Capacity	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.00 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)	1170.0 ccm (71.39 cubic inches)
Seat height	805 mm (31.7 inches)	805 mm (31.7 inches)	805 mm (31.7 inches)
Fuel capacity	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)	17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)
Color options	White	Light White	Black Storm Metallic/Aurum, Light White

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 BMW R nineT Racer is a head-turning motorcycle with a retro-inspired design and modern performance. Its air/oil-cooled 1,170 cc boxer engine delivers strong power and torque, providing a thrilling ride on both city streets and open highways. The cafe racer styling, with its low-slung handlebars and distinctive tail section, pays homage to the iconic racing bikes of the past while incorporating the latest technology and engineering from BMW Motorrad. The R nineT Racer offers a dynamic and agile riding experience, making it a standout choice for riders who appreciate classic aesthetics and contemporary performance.

Overall, the 2018 BMW R nineT Racer is a captivating motorcycle that blends vintage design with cutting-edge engineering. Its powerful engine and nimble handling make for an exhilarating ride, while its stylish looks and attention to detail set it apart from the crowd. Whether cruising through city streets or taking on winding roads, the R nineT Racer delivers a memorable and enjoyable experience for riders who appreciate both the history and the future of motorcycling. With its combination of classic styling and modern performance, this bike is sure to appeal to motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a unique and thrilling ride.