BMW’s next generation of the R nineT comes with a cruiser sibling in the form of the new R12.
The centrepiece of the new BMW R 12 models is the completely newly developed tubular bridge steel spaceframe. This frame differs from the previous R nineT series, which had a front and rear main frame. As a result, the new frame eliminates the need for previous fastenings, reducing weight and giving the new R 12 models a cleaner and more classic appearance. The rear frame, also made of tubular steel, is bolted to the main frame.
The engine will be familiar to BMW fans with the firm’s 1170cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine delivering 109 hp at 7,000 rpm in the R 12 nineT and a more sedate 95 hp at 6,500 rpm in the R 12. As part of the complete redesign of the chassis, the new R 12 models also feature a new airbox. This is now fully integrated under the seat. The left-mounted “Twin Pipe” exhaust system with two rear silencers with reverse cone design caters to both the desire for a classically designed, sporty roadster and a cruiser.
When it comes to instrumentation, BMW is keeping things classy with the new R 12 nineT coming equipped with two analogue instruments for speed and rpms, with a USB-C port on the left side and a 12V socket on the right side for charging electronic gizmos. With customisation always a key principle in the R nineT line, the round instruments continue to support this by communicating via a LIN-Bus and separating the control and display units. The standard instrumentation for the new R 12 cruiser out of the box is limited to just the speedometer, but the rev counter can be retrofitted with genuine BMW Motorcycle accessories. If, however, you like a touch of modernity in the form of a digital display, BMW will also sell you one ex-works.
Key differences in styling between the two new R 12 bikes start at the fuel tank.
On the R 12 nineT the aluminium tank with brushed and clear-coated side panels, the seat, and the tail-hump create a rising, dynamic line. The new tank offers improved ergonomics compared to its predecessor thanks to it being 30 mm shorter and a narrower fuel tank in the rear area. That allows the rider to sit closer to the handlebars, benefits from improved knee contact, and has a more front-oriented seating position on the motorcycle overall.
On the new BMW R 12, the bike instead gets a steel tank reminiscent of the so-called “Toaster Tanks” of the 1970s BMW /5 models. This tank helps to emphasise the typical design language of a cruiser in a classic teardrop shape and 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 complement this harmoniously. The classic cruiser design is also reflected in the relaxed seating position with low seat height and wide handlebars.
"With the new BMW R 12 nineT as a Classic Roadster and the R 12 as a Classic Cruiser, we are seamlessly continuing what began in 2013 with the R nineT, explains BMW Motorrad’s Head of Air-Cooled Boxer Series, Josef Miritsch. Thanks in particular to the new frame concept, we have achieved an even more classic and purist design. The air/oil-cooled boxer engine with new airbox, which has its roots in the legendary sport boxer of the HP 2 Sport from 2007, ensures confident propulsion. With its four radially arranged valves, it is one of BMW's absolute engine icons."
Pricing for the new BMW R 12 machines is yet to be determined, with local distributors Sime Darby expecting the new bikes to land in New Zealand in the late first quarter of 2024.