After announcing the models this spring, BMW Motorrad has now released more information about the two new bikes that replace the R nineT: the R 12 nineT and cruiser-styled R 12. Both models are equipped with the same 1,170 cc boxer twin as before. but with a new frame, new technology and other updates.
With the R nineT, BMW Motorrad launched more than just a roadster in a classic jacket ten years ago in 2013. BMW had combined classic engine design with modern technology and that was both its strong plus and minus. Plus because the bike really outshined everything else retro-classic, and minus because it was too perfect and therefore missed an essential part: character. Although they clearly thought differently in Germany.
“With the new BMW R 12 nineT as a Classic Roadster and the R 12 as a Classic Cruiser, we are seamlessly continuing what started in 2013 with the R nineT. Particularly thanks to the new frame concept, we have achieved an even more classic and puristic design. The air/oil-cooled boxer engine with new airbox – which has its origins in the legendary sports boxer of the HP 2 Sport from 2007 – ensures appealing performance. With four radially arranged valves per cylinder, this is one of BMW’s absolute icons in the field of powertrains.”
What BMW Motorrad had thought very carefully about from the start was to ensure that the motorcycle was very accessible to custom builders, by ensuring that the motorcycle could be easily personalized. Either with parts from our own accessory catalogue, or with parts manufactured by custom specialists. Over the years, the R nineT family was expanded with several versions, including the R nineT Scrambler, R nineT Racer and R nineT Urban G/S, creating a real R nineT family.
For this reason, ‘The Spirit of nineT’ was central during the development of the new BMW R 12 nineT, with the aim of seamlessly following in the footsteps of the successful R nineT and continuing the archetypal look, timelessness and high personalization qualities. . Both new models have their own identity. As a Classic Roadster, the new R 12 nineT makes a stylish impression in urban environments and offers dynamic driving pleasure on winding country roads. The new BMW R 12 – a Classic Cruiser – has the motto ‘The Spirit of Easy’ and is perfectly suitable for stylish but above all relaxed motorcycle rides.
According to BMW Motorrad, the new BMW R 12 nineT and R 12 combine the authentic and powerful character of the boxer engine and the design language of traditional motorcycle eras with innovative technology and a modular concept that offers the rider maximum customization options. Simplicity and attention to detail were key priorities in the development of the design, resulting in a strong emotional appeal.
As before, the beating heart is the oil/air-cooled 1,170 cc boxer engine, which is now specified for a top power of 109 hp at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 115 Nm at 6,000 rpm, which is a fraction less than the 110 hp and 116 Nm at the same speeds as its predecessor, which will undoubtedly be the effect of the stricter Euro5+ emission requirements. On the R 12, the power has even been reduced to 95 hp at 6,500 rpm, probably with a view to the A2 driving license.
As part of the completely redesigned chassis, the new R 12 models are also equipped with a new airbox, which is now fully integrated under the saddle. The left-mounted ‘Twin Pipe’ exhaust system with two rear silencers with inverted cone design fits perfectly with the classic roadster and cruiser concept.
The centerpiece of the new BMW R 12 models is the completely newly developed tubular steel tubular frame. This frame differs from the previous R nineT series, which had a main frame front and rear. As a result, the new frame eliminates the need for multiple mounting points. This reduces weight and gives the new R 12 a neater and more classic design. The subframe – also made of steel tubes – is bolted to the main frame.
The new BMW R 12 nineT is equipped with two analogue round instruments for reading speed and rpm. A USB-C port on the left and a 12V connection on the right are also standard. As usual, the round instruments support customization by communicating via a LIN bus and separating the control and display units. The new R 12 has a speedometer as standard. A tachometer is optionally available via original BMW Motorrad accessories.
With the R 12 nineT, BMW speaks of an ascending dynamic line created by the aluminum tank with brushed and clear-coated side panels and the saddle with a tail-hump. According to BMW, the improved ergonomics compared to its predecessor are mainly due to the 30 mm shorter and narrower fuel tank at the rear. The rider now sits closer to the handlebars, benefits from improved knee contact and has a more forward riding position on the motorcycle.
In the new BMW R 12, the steel tank – reminiscent of the so-called “Toaster Tanks” of the BMW /5 models from the 1970s – emphasizes the typical design language of a cruiser in a classic teardrop shape. The tank design forms a descending line in combination with the standard solo seat and the curved, low-mounted rear wheel cover. The large 19-inch front wheel and the small 16-inch rear wheel match this nicely. The classic cruiser design is also reflected in the relaxed seating position with the low seat height and wide handlebars.
Both the BMW R 12 nineT and the new R 12 are available in three attractive color options. For the R 12 nineT this is Blackstorm metallic as a standard color, San Reno Green as an additional color and thirdly the Option 719 ‘Aluminium’ in brushed aluminum / Night Black plain paint. For the R 12, the basic color is Blackstorm Matt metallic and you can choose from Aventurine Red metallic and Option 719 ‘Thorium’ in Avus Silver metallic as additional options.
In the Netherlands, the BMW R 12 nineT will be available for a consumer recommended retail price from € 20,990 and the BMW R 12 is available for a consumer recommended retail price from € 16,990.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.