BMW has taken the wraps off the new R 12 cruiser and R 12 nineT roadster motorcycles globally. The new offerings from BMW Motorrad continue the legacy of the R nineT model that made its debut in 2013.
Back in 2013 when the R nineT was introduced, it offered a dynamic design, which was a bit more than what we come to expect from a classic-style roadster. For the new model, BMW claims to have continued in the spirit of the R nineT while featuring a new body frame and an updated boxer engine.
The new R 12 and R 12 nineT models continue the 100 years of BMW’s legacy of building boxer engines. Both motorcycles feature an air/oil-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine with a capacity of 1,170cc. The engine puts out 109PS of power at 7000rpm in the nineT model while the R 12 offers 95PS at 6500rpm. Both bikes also offer a twin-pipe exhaust system with two silencers featuring a reverse cone design.
As we stated earlier, both bikes sit on a new frame, which is a tubular bridge steel spaceframe. The new frame eliminates the need for fastenings, which were featured on the older bikes’ frames, thus reducing the overall weight. In addition, since both motorcycles carry a new frame, the airbox has also been designed and is integrated under the seat.
On the suspension front, the R 12 models make use of upside-down forks at the front and a Paralever swinging arm with a spring strut at the rear. Both bikes also feature radially-mounted 4-piston monobloc brake callipers paired with 310mm floating disc brakes. The powerful braking system works in conjunction with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro.
Both the R 12 and R 12 nineT models also carry a suite of electronics. A few of these include riding modes, dynamic traction control, keyless engine start/stop, USB-C and 12V charging sockets, adaptive LED headlight and digital rider’s instrument display.