Racing Spirit: BMW Nine T Roadster

Race-Inspired BMW R nineT from FCR Original… 

The BMW R nineT remains one of the most popular modern bikes for customization. The roadster design can be shaped and configured toward various riding styles, and the air/oil-cooled 1170cc flat-twin boxer engine combines the layout and heritage of the beloved Type 247 “Airhead” with solid reliability and modern tech like fuel injection, selectable ride modes, etc.

Rated at 109 horsepower and 85.5 pound-feet of torque, the engine offers punch enough for all but the most power-hungry riders, and the wiring harnesses were designed to make customization easier than on most modern bikes, where suffering through the electronics can be the biggest headache of all.

While the R nineT is not intended as a track bike or racer, the chassis and handling have scored well among veteran reviewers and moto-journos.

“The suspension is a nice balance between supportive and stiff, and the chassis feels better the harder you push it…” –Cycle World

One of the best and most prolific customizers of this model is France’s FCR Original. Recently, a new build joined the ranks of their BMW Nine T Urban range — a series of builds created around the concept of “one motorcycle, one rider.” Here the colors, details, and accessories of each “Urban” model are tailored to the style and requirements of the owner.

In this case, the focus would be a bit apart from the norm — a race-inspired design just in time for the season start of MotoGP, World Superbike, and Motoamerica.

“For this project, our workshop stepped out of its usual playground to offer a more racing version of the Nine T. The future owner wanted a Nine T that evoked a racing and racing spirit, while retaining its roadster soul.”

The work of the FCR design office focused first on the paintwork. A powerful color combination of red and black, contrasted with the use of gold, gives the bike a racing flair.

“A real goldsmith’s work was carried out on the bodywork to apply a coat of gold leaf to both sides of the fuel tank. Gold leaf is also found on the number plates made by FCR Original, bearing the lucky number of its future owner.”

In one of our favorite details of the build, the rims of the spoke wheels were also painted gold.

The rocker covers were also partially painted to enhance the “claw marks” of the cooling fins, and the perforated leather saddle is a bespoke element.

Hawk-eyed readers will appreciate the full mudguards and array of custom accessories: K&N filters, exhaust, bar-end mirrors, adjustable mirrors, etc.

All in all, this is a lovely Boxer that looks a bit like a naked racetrack refugee, packing a multi-punch combo of solid performance, everyday comfort, and one-off aesthetics. Magnifique!

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Urban Range: fcr-original.com/gamme/urban/

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