This updated BMW R nineT is the retro Beemer you need

It’s a long time since BMW’s gone retro with its cars. The gorgeous Z8 roadster was a bit of a slow-burner when it came to critical acclaim, while the Z3 has never really gained classic status. But when it comes to bikes, BMW’s far more comfortable nodding to the past.

The R nineT has been on sale since 2013, and has just had an update. In car terms it’d be due a complete replacement by now, but the tweaks here have been kept mercifully subtle.

Much like a facelift on Planet Car, there’s new LED lighting and an additional USB port, as well as a new, more emissions compliant engine. It’s one single horsepower down on before, but its 109bhp peak is delivered 500rpm lower – at 7,250rpm – so it’ll probably feel the slightest bit faster in reality. Especially since BMW’s worked on making more of its 86lb ft peak available between 4,000rpm and 6,000rpm. This ought to be a brisk little thing.

You also get ABS Pro and Dynamic Brake Control as standard, should its newfound muscle give you a fright, while the front suspension’s been tuned and you now get Road and Rain modes as standard.

But the tech doesn’t stop there. See, rather like the 2 Series currently does – where a seven-seat diesel MPV and M2 CS both kinda wear the same badge – the R nineT is a versatile thing, coming in four different forms.

As well as a stock R nineT, you can have an R nineT Pure, Scrambler and Urban G/S (the latter pictured up top in new special edition form). Depending on which you opt for, you can add Dyna or Dirt to its ride modes, while ‘Option 719’ – shown below – is the name covering a load of fancy trim and customisation, um, options. Prices start below £11,000.

Which one’s taking your fancy? Or would you prefer the 8 Series to revert to pop-up headlights and your retro BMW to come with a full complement of wheels?