Clash of the titans: bmw r nine t racer and triumph thruxton battle for retro dominance
What To Know
- The R Nine T Racer features a streamlined silhouette with a sculpted fuel tank, a sleek tail section, and a minimalist headlight.
- Both motorcycles exhibit excellent cornering abilities, with the R Nine T Racer excelling in high-speed maneuvers and the Thruxton providing a more relaxed and composed ride.
- Whether you crave the raw performance and agility of the R Nine T Racer or the comfort and retro charm of the Thruxton, these two titans of the café racer world will undoubtedly deliver an unforgettable riding experience.
The world of motorcycling is filled with iconic machines, and the BMW R Nine T Racer and Triumph Thruxton are two such masterpieces. These retro-inspired motorcycles evoke nostalgia while embodying modern performance and style. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two titans, exploring their similarities, differences, and which one might best suit your riding needs.
Design and Aesthetics
Both the R Nine T Racer and Thruxton embrace a classic café racer aesthetic. The R Nine T Racer features a streamlined silhouette with a sculpted fuel tank, a sleek tail section, and a minimalist headlight. In contrast, the Thruxton exudes a more muscular presence with a rounded fuel tank, a stepped seat, and a traditional round headlight.
Engine and Performance
The R Nine T Racer is powered by a 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer-twin engine that produces 110 horsepower and 88 ft-lbs of torque. The Thruxton, on the other hand, features a 1,200cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that generates 97 horsepower and 82 ft-lbs of torque. While the R Nine T Racer delivers a more linear power delivery, the Thruxton offers a more spirited and rev-happy character.
Handling and Suspension
The R Nine T Racer boasts a rigid tubular steel frame and a fully adjustable suspension setup, providing a precise and responsive handling experience. The Thruxton employs a tubular steel cradle frame and a Showa suspension system, offering a comfortable and stable ride. Both motorcycles exhibit excellent cornering abilities, with the R Nine T Racer excelling in high-speed maneuvers and the Thruxton providing a more relaxed and composed ride.
Braking and Safety
The R Nine T Racer comes equipped with dual 320mm floating discs up front and a single 265mm disc at the rear, providing ample stopping power. The Thruxton features 310mm discs with Brembo calipers, delivering equally impressive braking performance. Both motorcycles also offer ABS as standard, enhancing safety and control.
Technology and Features
The R Nine T Racer is relatively spartan in terms of technology, featuring a basic instrument cluster and limited electronic aids. The Thruxton, however, boasts a more comprehensive suite of electronics, including ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, and cruise control. Additionally, the Thruxton offers optional extras such as a TFT display, heated grips, and an anti-theft alarm.
Price and Availability
The BMW R Nine T Racer carries a slightly higher price tag than the Triumph Thruxton. The R Nine T Racer starts at around $14,000, while the Thruxton can be purchased for approximately $12,000. Both motorcycles are readily available from authorized dealerships.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between the BMW R Nine T Racer and Triumph Thruxton ultimately depends on your individual preferences and riding style. If you seek a minimalist and performance-oriented café racer with classic styling, the R Nine T Racer is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more comfortable and feature-rich motorcycle with a muscular presence, the Thruxton is a compelling option.
Key Points: A Matter of Taste
The BMW R Nine T Racer and Triumph Thruxton are both exceptional motorcycles that cater to different tastes and riding experiences. Whether you crave the raw performance and agility of the R Nine T Racer or the comfort and retro charm of the Thruxton, these two titans of the café racer world will undoubtedly deliver an unforgettable riding experience.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which motorcycle has the higher top speed?
A: Both motorcycles have similar top speeds, with the R Nine T Racer reaching approximately 135 mph and the Thruxton topping out at around 132 mph.
Q: Is the R Nine T Racer more fuel-efficient than the Thruxton?
A: Yes, the R Nine T Racer typically achieves better fuel economy than the Thruxton, averaging around 45 mpg while the Thruxton returns about 40 mpg.
Q: Which motorcycle has a longer warranty?
A: The BMW R Nine T Racer comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, while the Triumph Thruxton offers a 2-year/unlimited-mileage warranty.