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2020 BMW R nineT Overview
The 2020 BMW R nineT is a naked bike motorcycle built around 1170 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Horizontally Opposed Boxer Twin engine running DOHC Radially Aligned valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.0:1. The bore and stroke measures 101 x 73 mm. 2020 BMW R nineT delivers 81 kW @ 7550 rpm of peak power and 116 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2020 R nineT tips the scales at 220 kg, carries an 18-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1522 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2020 BMW R nineT spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2020 BMW R nineT compared with other bikes in the Naked bike category
Here is how the 2020 BMW R nineT stacks up against other bikes in the Naked bike category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1666 models.
- Torque of 116 Nm is higher than that of 1212 of the other 1317 bikes in the Naked bike category.
- Only 133 of the other 1665 bikes in the Naked bike category have a larger engine displacement than the 1170 cc of the R nineT.
- With 820 mm, the R nineT has the joint 176th tallest seat height of 1311 bikes in the Naked bike category, 3% above the category average of 795 mm.
- Narrowing the field to the 494 models within five model years of it, the torque of 116 Nm is higher than that of 432 of the other 493.
Versus the 2019 model
The figures we track are unchanged from the 2019 model: peak power, peak torque, displacement and seat height all match.
2020 R nineT - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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⚡
Strong power output: 2020 BMW R nineT makes 81 kW @ 7550 rpm with 116 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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🔧
Fuel injection: The Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management with overrun cutoff system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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Strong front braking: The disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
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Large fuel range: The 18-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
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Low-maintenance final drive: Shaft final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
Wear Points & Servicing Notes
Heat management in traffic
R nineT's air-cooled design means engine-bay temperatures build up more in stop-start traffic than on a liquid-cooled equivalent - a function of the cooling method itself, not a defect. Mesh riding gear and avoiding prolonged idling help in hot climates.
Fuelling & injector care
Fuelling comes from Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management with overrun cutoff. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.
Valve clearance checks
DOHC Radially Aligned valve actuation on the R nineT means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.
Brake disc and pad wear
The disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.
Suspension condition on used examples
Up front, the R nineT runs Upside-down telescopic forks, 46 mm fixed-fork-tube diameter and Cast aluminium single swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; central spring strut,spring preload fully adjustable by hook wrench, adjustable rebound-stage damping at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.
Final drive maintenance
Final drive is by shaft - no chain or belt maintenance at all, though the drive-shaft oil should be changed on the manufacturer's interval.
Frame & chassis check
The frame is Four-part frame concept with front frame and three-part rear frame, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, rear-seat frame removeable for one-up riding - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.
Handling the weight at a standstill
At 220 kg, the R nineT is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.
R nineT - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2020 BMW R nineT with its 1170 cc naked bike, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs shaft final drive, so ask for proof the shaft-drive gear oil has been changed on schedule - it's easy to overlook since there's no chain to draw attention to it. Now 6 years old, this naked bike is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R nineT should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the R nineT's 1170 cc horizontally opposed boxer twin. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 12.0:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The R nineT's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
Valve clearance service
Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used R nineT. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.
2020 BMW R nineT - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2020 BMW R nineT have?
The 2020 BMW R nineT uses a Horizontally Opposed Boxer Twin engine with 1170 cc of displacement. It is air/oil cooled.
How much does the 2020 BMW R nineT weigh?
The 2020 BMW R nineT weighs 220 kg. This is the manufacturer's dry figure.
How much power does the 2020 BMW R nineT make?
The 2020 BMW R nineT produces 81 kW @ 7550 rpm of power and 116 Nm @ 6000 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2020 BMW R nineT?
The 2020 BMW R nineT has an 18-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 300-360 km between stops.
Is the 2020 BMW R nineT suitable for shorter riders?
The 2020 BMW R nineT has a seat height of 820 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2020 BMW R nineT have?
The 2020 BMW R nineT uses 2 x 320 mm Foating brake discs, 4 piston radial calipers at the front and single 265 mm disc, 2 piston floating caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2020 BMW R nineT use?
The 2020 BMW R nineT runs 120/70 - ZR17 front and 180/55 - ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2020 BMW R nineT have?
The 2020 BMW R nineT is fitted with a Constant mesh 6-speed transmission.
BMW R nineT Spec Evolution
The BMW R nineT was produced across 5 model years (2015-2022). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2015 |
2017 |
2019 |
2020 |
2022 |
| Max Power |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7550 rpm |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7550 rpm |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7550 rpm |
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7550 rpm |
80 kW /109 hp @ 7250 rpm |
| Wet Weight |
222 kg / 489 lb |
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- |
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221 kg / 487.2 lbs |
| Dry Weight |
208 kg / 459 lbs |
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220 kg / 485 lbs |
220 kg / 485 lbs |
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| Engine Detail |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counterbalancer shaft. |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counterbalancer shaft. |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counterbalancer shaft. |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counterbalancer shaft. |
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counter balancer shaft. |
| Seat Height |
784.8 mm / 30.9 in Standard |
784.8 mm / 30.9 in Standard |
820 mm / 32.3 in |
820 mm / 32.3 in |
805 mm / 31.7 in |
| Fuel Capacity |
18 Litres / 4.8 US gal |
18 |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal |
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal |
| Frame Type |
Four-section frame consisting of one front and three rear sections, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, removable pillion frame for single ride use |
Four-section frame consisting of one front and three rear sections, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, removable pillion frame for single ride use |
Four-part frame concept with front frame and three-part rear frame, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, rear-seat frame removeable for one-up riding |
Four-part frame concept with front frame and three-part rear frame, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, rear-seat frame removeable for one-up riding |
Four-part frame concept with front frame and three-part rear frame, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, rear-seat frame removeable for one-up riding |
| Displacement |
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in. |
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in. |
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in. |
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in. |
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in |
Key Specifications
Engine
Horizontally Opposed Boxer Twin
Power
81 kW / 110 hp @ 7550 rpm
Torque
116 Nm / 11.8 kgf-m / 85.6 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm
Fuel Capacity
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
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Full 2020 BMW R nineT Specifications
Year
2020
Make
BMW
Model
R nineT
Make Model
BMW R nineT
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in
Wheelbase
1522 mm / 59.9 in
Height
1240 mm / 48.8 in (excl. mirrors)
Length
2110 mm / 83.1 in
Seat Height (Inner Leg Curve)
1795 mm / 70.7 in unladen
Width
900 mm / 35.4 in (incl. mirrors)
Dry Weight
220 kg / 485 lbs
Fuel Capacity
18 Litres / 4.7 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
Maximum Load / GVWR
430 kg / 948 lbs
Bore x Stroke (mm)
101.0 x 73.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)
3.98 x 2.87 in
Stroke
73.0 mm
Displacement (cc)
1170 cc
Displacement (ci)
71.4 cu-in
Engine Type
Horizontally Opposed Boxer Twin
Fuel Control
DOHC Radially Aligned
Displacement
1170 cc / 71.4 cub in.
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, two camshafts and four radially aligned valves per cylinder, central counterbalancer shaft.
Bore x Stroke
101 x 73 mm
Compression Ratio
12.0:1
Cooling System
Air/Oil cooled
Emissions
Controlled 3-way catalytic converter, exhaust emission standards EU-4
Fuel Induction
Electronic intake pipe injection / digital engine management with overrun cutoff, twin-spark ignition
Lubrication
Wet sump
Starter
Electric
Battery Capacity
12 V / 14 Ah, maintenance-free
Clutch
Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically operated
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
Ist 2.375 / 2nd 1.696 / 3rd 1.296 / 4th 1.065 / 5th 0.939 / 6th 0.848:1
Transmission / Drive
Constant mesh 6-speed
Frame Type
Four-part frame concept with front frame and three-part rear frame, load-bearing engine-gearbox unit, rear-seat frame removeable for one-up riding
Suspension - Front
Upside-down telescopic forks, 46 mm fixed-fork-tube diameter
Suspension - Rear
Cast aluminium single swinging arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; central spring strut,spring preload fully adjustable by hook wrench, adjustable rebound-stage damping
Steering Head Angle
63.2 °
Trail
107.9 mm / 4.2 in
Wheel Travel - Front
120 mm / 4.7 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
120 mm / 4.7 in
Alternator
Three-phase alternator 600 W
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)
320 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)
12.6 in
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)
265 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)
10.4 in
Brakes - Front
2 x 320 mm Foating brake discs, 4 piston radial calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 265 mm disc, 2 piston floating caliper
ABS
BMW Motorrad ABS
Tyres - Front
120/70 - ZR17
Tyres - Rear
180/55 - ZR17
Wheels - Front
3.50 x 17, Cast alloy
Wheels - Rear
5.50 x 17, Cast alloy
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced
technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis.
Spot an error? Let us know.
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