BMW isn’t lacking for R NineT
variants. From the Scrambler to the Racer, most riders can find a
version that speaks to their riding needs and sensibilities. In addition
to the five production models, BMW frequently leverages the versatile
platform for anniversary editions like the R NineT/5. Now, BMW France is recognizing its rally roots by offering the R NineT Urban G/S Dakar Series # 1. Sadly, unless you’re in France, you can’t have one.
Launched in honor of Hubert Auriol, winner of the 1981 and 1983
Paris Dakar Rallies, the limited run Urban G/S borrows design cues from
his legendary BMW R 80 G/S, Le Point. The Dakar Series #1
features a gold front rim, silver valve covers, new side covers, and a
single-rider bench seat.
The special paint scheme
mimics Auriol’s rally-winning bike with a white base, blue trim, and
yellow lettering. Regretfully, Urban G/S branding takes the place of the
famous Le Point text across the tank—probably for rights purposes.
BMW
France also replaces Auriol’s iconic no. 100 race plate with a
commemorative no. 83, celebrating the year of his final Paris Dakar
motorcycle victory. An engraved plaque graces the top of each gas tank
and bears the name and signature of the storied racer.
The BMW R NineT Urban G/S Dakar Series # 1 will cost €18,500,
which converts to around $20,700. With only 40 units in production and
exclusively offered to the French market, most of us can only dream of
owning the nostalgic NineT.
While the Urban G/S may
not hold up Paris Dakar terrain, it serves as a suitable canvas for this
exercise in design. The silhouette of the R NineT suits the lines of
Auriol’s G/Ses and BMW France employs a high level of craft and
attention to detail. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on an Urban G/S Dakar Series # 1, you’ll certainly stand out among the army of R NineTs.
