12 Photos BMW R nineT Scrambler

Is this the natural habitat for BMW's R nineT Scrambler? Maybe. The original scramblers of the 1960s were derived from streetbikes modified to improve their off-road performance. In those days, if you raised the exhaust, added a bigger seat, and chunky tires, you had a scrambler. Regardless of the brand, your motorcycle had greater potential to go more places. Today's scramblers are designed in much the same vein. You may need a streetbike, but your heart demands something with that mischievous "run-what-you-brung" spirit—your soul wants a scrambler.

Roughly three hours from the Southern California sprawl is a little-known spot I like to frequent. Its hard-packed obsidian sand dunes make for fun riding and a dramatic photographic backdrop. With visions of Bud Ekins and Steve McQueen in his mind and mischief in his heart, my son, Evan, grabbed the handlebar, switched traction control and ABS to the off position, and whacked the throttle. In this black desert paradise, Evan settled into the seat and our epic day of “dust and daguerreotype” began. Like the days of yore, with this modern scrambler, the fun begins when the pavement ends.

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