BMW Motorrad unveils R12 nineT and R12

When it was launched in 2012, the BMW R nineT combined classic motorcycle design and modern technology with excellent craftmanship and diverse customisation options. This was followed by a variety of derivatives that gave rise to an entire model family for the BMW Motorrad Heritage World.

Now, the new BMW R 12 nineT aims to follow in those footsteps by carrying forward its archetypal look and timeless qualities.

The new BMW R 12 nineT and R 12 are classic roadsters and cruisers that combine the authentic, beefy character of the boxer engine and the design language of traditional motorcycle eras with innovative technology and a modular concept that allows riders to personalise these motorcycles to their liking.

Iconic powerplant

The air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine with a capacity of 1 170cc delivers 80kW at 7 000rpm in the R 12 nineT and 70kW at 6 500rpm in the R 12. This engine is based on the boxer engine introduced in 2007 with the BMW HP 2 Sport and is considered an iconic representative among BMW boxer engines in terms of technology, performance and torque delivery.

Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission and propeller shaft as has been synonymous with BMW motorcycles for the last 100 years.

A new airbox located under the seat and a left-mounted twin-pipe exhaust system with two rear silencers and a reverse cone design caters to both the desire for a classically designed, sporty roadster and a cruiser. 

The R 12 nineT features Rain, Road and Dynamic riding modes as standard while R 12 riders can choose between Roll and Rock modes as they adapt the riding behaviour to their personal preferences. Both models are fitted with Dynamic Traction Control and engine drag torque control as standard.

All-new tubular steel frame

The biggest update is a new, one-piece tubular bridge steel spaceframe with bolted on rear frame. This new design eliminates the need for certain fastenings, reducing weight and giving the R 12 models a cleaner and more classic appearance. Suspension consists of upside-down telescopic forks that are adjustable on the R 12 nine T and a Paralever swinging arm with rear spring strut now arranged at an angle with revised travel-dependent damping.

A powerful braking system consists of radially mounted four-piston monobloc brake callipers, steel flex brake lines and twin floating 310mm brake discs that work in conjunction with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro for safe braking even when cornering. Both models are fitted with cast alloy wheels.

Updated styling and ergonomics

On the R 12 nine T the aluminium tank with brushed and clear-coated side panels, the seat and the tail-hump create a rising, dynamic line. Ergonomics have been improved thanks to a 30mm shorter and narrower fuel tank in the rear area, resulting in the rider being closer to the handlebars, having more knee contact and having an overall more front oriented seating position on the motorcycle.

On the R12 the steel tank emphasises the typical design language of the cruiser with a classic teardrop shape while forming a descending line in combination with the standard solo seat and the curved, low mounted rear wheel cover. This is further complemented by the large 19-inch front wheel and small 16-inch rear wheel. The classic cruiser design is reinforced by the relaxed seating position with low seat height and wide handlebars.

The new R 12 nineT is equipped with two analogue round instruments housing a speedometer and rev counter. A USB-C port on the left side and 12V socket on the right side facilitate the powering of accessories and all lighting is LED and complimentary of the overall design.

The layout of the motorcycle makes the fitment of different tank shapes easy and ensures freedom in designing the seats and side lines. In addition a wide variety of customisation options are available through the genuine BMW Motorrad accessories catalogue.

Local availability

The South African launch date of the BMW R 12 nineT and R 12 is yet to be confirmed.