Introduced for 2014, the BMW R nineT was conceived as a modern interpretation of the classic BMW boxer, combining the brand’s air/oil-cooled 1,170cc twin with premium components and a design intended to invite customization. The original R nineT featured an aluminum fuel tank, spoke wheels, inverted front forks, dual exhaust, and twin analog gauges, establishing the platform that would eventually spawn a range of more specialized, but arguably less special, variants.
This particular R nineT was built by Austin, Texas based Revival Cycles, and is known as “The Bison.” The project began with a nearly new motorcycle and grew into a thoroughly reworked custom while retaining the stock engine and chassis. Revival fitted a custom equal length stainless-steel exhaust system routed beneath the tank and across the center of the motorcycle, along with a custom stainless-steel intake, Kineo wheels, and a wealth of other custom parts.
“When the BMW R nineT was first released back in 2014, Revival was able to get its hands on the first one in Texas. A local client was in love with BMW’s new Retro-inspired standard motorcycle and wanted his personal touches added to his new toy. However, this motorcycle was designed to be ridden, so all modifications had to keep the build as reliable as the factory specifications. The project started out pretty mild with a new slip-on style custom exhaust, clean up the handlebars, add a Wunderlich fairing, and a custom upholstered seat. Once the motorcycle started coming apart and the Revival crew brainstormed on BMW’s new platform, the project scope got a little out of hand.”
The result attracted the attention of Bike EXIF, which featured “The Bison” in January 2015 and described it as one of the standout custom R nineTs of the period. The complete feature, including additional photographs and details from Revival Cycles’ Alan Stulberg, can be found on Bike EXIF.
Manufactured in January 2014, this example is VIN: WB10A1603EZ397293. The seller acquired it two years ago from Revival Cycles when they had it on consignment in 2024 on behalf of the original owner, with the owner choosing a rapid sale rather than pursuing a longer marketing period; the current owner purchased it shortly after the price was reduced. The bike is now offered as the documented Revival built “Bison,” with its history and provenance preserved alongside the extensive list of modifications below.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 500 miles. The odometer shows 5,541 miles.
“I had a double knee replacement the last 2 years, which has hindered my ability to ride comfortably. I love the bike, but I’d rather she find a more capable rider.”
Maintenance:
“The bike was last serviced in Houston, Texas at Wolfsmith’s Motors, specialty BMW classics shop. Full fluids, oil and replacing the custom flexible oil hoses. That is the only service record on the bike. That service and replacement was $1,700 due to custom requirements. Bike was ridden perhaps 200 miles since then.”
Mechanical Issues:
“There may be a small weep left front fork seal. I believe it simply needs a cleaning with tool – small piece of dirt. I hadn’t ridden her in 5 months and I believe oil pooled from sitting and when I moved her a small amount wept through. I cleaned it and there was lightest sheen after recent ride.”
Modifications:
During his ownership, the seller has added “new custom flexible oil lines.”
Revival Cycles shared details of the build on their website, here are the highlights:
Bodywork
Custom built alloy under tail
Recess mount LED tail light strip w/ integrated turn signals
Revival Cycles license plate mount
Wunderlich front fairing
Shortened subframe.
Engine
Hand fabricated alternator cover
Relocated smaller oil cooler
RSD valve covers
Exhaust
Custom built, stainless steel 2 into 1 high exhaust, routed under the fuel tank
Custom built, tune-able high mount silencer
Heat shielding built around exhaust to protect electronics
Fiberglass exhaust insulation used on non-visible areas
Custom single air filter with heat shielding and stainless steel intake tubes.
Tires/wheels
Kineo wheels
Shining Silver Rims
Shining Silver Hubs
Black Nipples with Black Spokes (3.5”x17 5.5”x17”)
Hand controls/bars
LSL silver drag bars, fat bars
MotoGadget M-Blaze Disc bar end turn signals
Rizoma Reverse Retro mirror
Custom upholstered Bison skin seat, matching hand sewn Bison grips.
Custom built single saddle bag from Bison leather.
Stainless steel fabricated saddle bag attachment w/ quick release fasteners
Electrical
Lengthened O2 sensor wiring
Load resistors added for LED turn signals
Custom wired tail light and license plate light
Paint
Classically inspired white pin-striping added to fuel tank, front fender and front fairing
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Metzeler tires with date codes of 5118 and 0419.
The sale includes 1 ignition key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The bike was meticulously cared for by original owner, garaged and ridden 5000 miles in 12 years. I have barely ridden her and she’s been covered in my garage. She’s been ridden perhaps 10 times in 2 years, rides less than 30 miles“.
Currently located in Jennings, Louisiana, this BMW is offered on a clean Louisiana title. Have any R nineT stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
