Comprehensive Maintenance Schedule for BMW R nineT Motorcycle
The BMW R nineT is a retro-styled roadster introduced in 2014 to celebrate 90 years of BMW Motorrad. This bike seamlessly blends classic styling, inspired by the 1923 BMW R32, with modern technology and customization options. The R nineT is powered by an air/oil-cooled 1,170 cc flat-twin boxer engine. It is known as the R nineT Classic in some markets to distinguish it from variants like the Pure, Racer, Scrambler, and Urban G/S.
Why Riders Love the BMW R nineT
- Iconic Retro Styling: Features a round headlight, exposed engine, and minimalist bodywork.
- Powerful Engine: Equipped with a characterful air/oil-cooled boxer engine.
- Excellent Handling: Achieved through a trellis frame and upside-down forks.
- Premium Quality: High-quality components and excellent fit and finish.
- Customization Options: Extensive options available to personalize the bike.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: Suitable for city riding and light touring.
- Rich Heritage: Strong association with the BMW brand and its history.
Technical Specifications
2014-2016 BMW R nineT
- Engine: 1,170 cc air/oil-cooled 4-stroke flat twin
- Power: 110 hp (81 kW) @ 7,750 rpm
- Torque: 88 lb-ft (119 Nm) @ 6,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox, shaft drive
- Suspension: 46 mm upside-down telescopic fork (front), Paralever single-sided swingarm (rear)
- Brakes: Dual 320 mm discs (front), single 265 mm disc (rear), ABS
- Wheelbase: 1,476 mm (58.1 inches)
- Seat Height: 785 mm (30.9 inches)
- Fuel Capacity: 18 liters (4.8 US gal)
- Curb Weight: 222 kg (489 lbs)
2017-2020 BMW R nineT
- Updates: Revised instrument cluster, upgraded catalytic converter to meet Euro 4 emissions, ride-by-wire throttle on 2020 models
2021-Present BMW R nineT
- Updates: LED headlight and turn signals, USB charging port, “Pro” riding modes, meets Euro 5 emissions standards
Fluid Specifications
| Fluid | Type | Capacity | Change Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | 15W-50, API SJ/JASO MA2 | 3.8 L | Annual/6000 miles |
| Gearbox oil | 75W-90 GL-5 | 0.18 L | Every 2 years |
| Final drive oil | 75W-90 GL-5 | 0.7 L | Every 2 years |
| Brake fluid | DOT 4 | 0.25 L | Every 2 years |
| Fork oil | BMW telescopic fork oil | 0.45 L | Every 2 years |
Maintenance Parts List
Every Ride
- Check tire pressures and tread depth
- Check brake fluid levels
- Check all lights and controls
Every 600 Miles / 1,000 km
- Check engine oil level
- Lubricate chain drive (if equipped)
Every 6,000 Miles / 10,000 km
- Change engine oil and filter
- Check valve clearances
- Check and adjust throttle cables
- Check and lubricate side and center stands
- Check battery electrolyte level
Every 12,000 Miles / 20,000 km
- Replace air filter
- Replace spark plugs
- Check and adjust belt tension
Every 2 Years Regardless of Mileage
- Change brake fluid
- Change fork oil
- Change gearbox oil
- Change final drive oil
Maintenance Schedule
| Miles x 1,000 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Km x 1,000 | 10 | 20 | 30 | 40 |
| Engine oil & filter | R | R | R | R |
| Valve clearance | C | – | C | – |
| Air filter | – | R | – | R |
| Spark plugs | – | R | – | R |
| Brake fluid | – | R | – | R |
| Fork oil | – | R | – | R |
| Gearbox oil | – | R | – | R |
| Final drive oil | – | R | – | R |
| Belt tension | – | C | – | C |
C = Check, R = Replace
Maintenance FAQs
- What is the recommended engine oil for the R nineT? BMW recommends 15W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil that meets API SJ and JASO MA2 standards. The engine oil capacity is 3.8 liters.
- How often should I change the engine oil on my R nineT? The engine oil and filter should be changed annually or every 6,000 miles (10,000 km), whichever comes first.
- What are the valve clearance specifications for the R nineT? The intake valve clearance is 0.15-0.20 mm cold, and the exhaust valve clearance is 0.25-0.30 mm cold. Valve clearances should be checked every 12,000 miles.
- How do I adjust the belt tension on my R nineT? The alternator belt tension should be checked and adjusted every 24,000 miles. Loosen the alternator mounting bolts, move the alternator to achieve proper tension, then retighten the bolts. Belt tension should be 9-11 mm with 10 kg of force applied.
- What type of brake pads should I use on my R nineT? The R nineT uses sintered metal brake pads from the factory. Aftermarket options include EBC HH-rated pads for more bite and fade resistance.
- How much does it cost to service an R nineT? Routine service costs will vary by location, but expect to pay around $200-300 for an annual oil change service, and $600-800 for a major service with valve adjustment.
- Can I do my own maintenance on the R nineT? Many routine tasks like oil changes, chain lubrication, and checking fluids can be done by competent home mechanics. More involved jobs like valve adjustments are best left to experienced technicians.
- What are some common issues with the R nineT? The R nineT is known to be a reliable motorcycle. Some 2014-2016 models had an issue with a noisy clutch actuator rod that was fixed under warranty. Alloy wheels on early models were prone to cracking.
- How can I make my R nineT faster? Popular performance upgrades for the R nineT include a full exhaust system, air filter, ECU tune, and gearing changes. Together these can add 10-15 horsepower.
- What should I watch out for when buying a used R nineT? When shopping for a used R nineT, check the service records to ensure the bike has been properly maintained. Inspect the tires, chain, brake pads, and fluids. Take the bike for a test ride to assess engine performance and handling.
Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your BMW R nineT
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule
- Use high-quality fluids and parts
- Keep the bike clean and protected from the elements
- Ride smoothly and avoid abusing the clutch or gears
- Store the bike properly when not in use
- Address any issues promptly before they worsen
- Consider upgrading wear items like tires, chain, and brake pads
Troubleshooting guide
| Problem | Possible causes | Suggested solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won’t start | – Dead battery – Faulty starter – No fuel – Clogged fuel filter – Fouled spark plugs | – Charge/replace battery – Check starter connections – Refill tank, check fuel lines – Clean/replace fuel filter – Clean/replace spark plugs |
| Engine overheating | – Low oil level – Clogged oil filter – Stuck thermostat – Damaged radiator fins – Faulty water pump | – Check/top up oil level – Replace oil filter – Replace thermostat – Clean radiator fins – Replace water pump |
| Clutch slipping | – Worn clutch plates – Weak clutch springs – Improper cable adjustment – Old clutch fluid – Leaking slave cylinder | – Replace clutch kit – Replace clutch springs – Adjust cable tension – Flush and replace fluid – Rebuild/replace slave cylinder |
| Front end wobble | – Unbalanced tire – Loose steering head bearings – Bent rim – Damaged steering damper – Misaligned forks | – Balance front tire – Adjust bearing preload – True or replace rim – Replace steering damper – Align fork tubes |
| Brakes not working | – Worn brake pads – Contaminated rotors – Air in brake lines – Damaged brake lines – Faulty ABS module | – Replace brake pads – Clean rotors with brake cleaner – Bleed brake system – Replace damaged lines – Diagnose and repair ABS |
Recommended Tools
- Metric socket set
- Torque wrench
- Oil filter wrench
- Feeler gauges
- Tire pressure gauge
- Multimeter
Sources of this Blog Post
Here are the sources referenced in this comprehensive maintenance schedule for the BMW R nineT motorcycle:
Primary References
- YouTube – BMW R nineT Review: Provides an in-depth review of the BMW R nineT, highlighting its features, performance, and appeal.
- Wikipedia – BMW R nineT: Offers an overview of the BMW R nineT, including its history, specifications, and variants.
- BMW Motorcycles – R nineT: Official BMW Motorcycles page providing detailed specifications and features for the R nineT.
- BMW Motorrad – R nineT Owner’s Manual: Official BMW owner’s manual detailing maintenance procedures and specifications for the R nineT.
Technical and Maintenance Information
- BMW Motorrad Australia – R nineT Technical Data: Official technical data and specifications for the BMW R nineT.
- Pier City Custom – BMW R nineT Model History: Provides a brief history and overview of the BMW R nineT model line.
- Maintenance Schedule – BMW R nineT: Comprehensive maintenance schedule for the BMW R nineT, detailing service intervals and required maintenance tasks.
- Motorcycle Parts Hornig – BMW R nineT Maintenance: Provides detailed maintenance intervals and service information for the BMW R nineT.
Additional References
- Bike EXIF – BMW R nineT Scrambler: Offers a review and overview of the BMW R nineT Scrambler variant, highlighting its features and design.
- YouTube – BMW R nineT Service Guide: Video guide discussing the maintenance and service procedures for the BMW R nineT.
- NineT Owners Forum – Service Intervals: Forum discussion detailing the service intervals and maintenance tips for the BMW R nineT.
- Value Bike Centre – History of the BMW R nineT: Provides a brief history and overview of the BMW R nineT model line, focusing on its development and features.
These sources were used to compile accurate and detailed information for the maintenance schedule and technical specifications of the BMW R nineT.