BMW R12, R12 NineT Retros Breaks Cover, Details Inside

BMW has unveiled two new models, bidding farewell to the classic R nineT.

The R 12, a cruiser with just the right amount of power, snugly fitting below the mighty R 18. And then there’s the R 12 nineT, a modern take on a retro roadster that’s bound to turn heads.y

BMW R 12: Details

Under the hood of the R 12 resides an air/oil-cooled, 1,170cc, horizontally opposed (boxer) twin engine, churning out an impressive 95 bhp at 6,500rpm and 110Nm at 6,000rpm. Embracing this powerhouse is a new tubular bridge steel space frame, proving its mettle as a stressed member. Suspension duties are deftly handled by a non-adjustable USD fork and a paralever rear suspension, promising a smooth ride.

Talking about the wheels—a 19-inch rim in the front and a 16-inch one at the rear, giving the R 12 that classic cruiser vibe. The braking duty is done by twin 310mm discs up front with radially mounted 4-pot calipers and a 265mm disc at the rear, featuring a 2-piston caliper. Other standard features include Cornering ABS, traction control, and two thrilling riding modes—Roll and Rock.

BMW R 12 nineT: Details

The R 12 nineT is the cool, updated version of your favorite bike, the R nineT. This model generates the same peak 109 bhp as its predecessor but revs up 250rpm earlier, hitting 7,000rpm. While torque dips slightly by 1Nm, resting at 115Nm, this beauty sheds 1kg in weight, scaling down to 220kg with its 16-litre fuel tank (2 litres smaller than the R nineT). Its seat height also shrinks to 795mm, offering a more accessible stance compared to the R nineT’s 805mm.

The R 12 nineT maintains familiarity with 4-piston radially mounted calipers, albeit with slightly downsized front discs at 310mm, a tweak unlikely to dent its relaxed roadster appeal. Boasting a fully adjustable USD fork and paralever rear suspension, this model comes equipped with top-notch electronic aids, including cornering ABS, traction control, and three enticing riding modes—Rain, Road, Dynamic.

With BMW’s tradition of retailing its prominent big bike lineup in India, anticipation swells for the imminent arrival of these two new models on Indian shores.