BMW Motorrad presents its renewed range of classics, the new R 12 and R 12 NineT

In mid-May, BMW Motorrad previewed the new R 12 NineT, a model that since its creation in 2013 has brought us a “retro” aesthetic loaded with technology, in which the aggressive aerodynamics prevalent today are forgotten. The brand’s intention was for the R 12 NineT to be presented at EICMA, which it was, together with its “cruiser” sister, the R 12.

As we already previewed in May, the new BMW R 12 NineT stands out for the installation of a new fuel tank with brushed aluminium side panels to which a transparent coating has been applied, while the tail section and the seat form an upward line. This line matches the new ergonomics, now a little more radical thanks to the fuel tank narrower at the rear, allowing the rider to sit further forward for greater comfort or to have better leg contact with the tank for a more sporty ride.

The BMW R 12 retains a more classic aesthetic, which is accentuated by the “Toaster Tanks” steel fuel tank in the classic teardrop shape reminiscent of the BMW /5 models of the 1970s. It also features a downward line that matches the seat design and continues with the curved, low rear wheel cover, which, by the way, is 16 inches, while the front is 19 inches. As for ergonomics, the R 12 will be even more comfortable thanks to the seat position and a low seat height relative to the ground, combined with the wide handlebar.

We already anticipated this in May, and now BMW confirms we were right: the new BMW R 12 and R 12 NineT incorporate a new chassis. It is a steel tubular bridge spaceframe developed entirely from scratch, which compared to the outgoing model eliminates the need for the previous mountings, resulting in lower weight and giving both models a cleaner, more refined look. The cycle part continues with fully adjustable inverted telescopic forks at the front, as well as four-piston monobloc brake calipers with flexible steel brake lines and 310 mm floating brake discs; while at the rear there is a frame with a Paralever swingarm with an angled rear spring strut.

Mechanically, the frame embraces the characteristic and beautiful 1,170 cc boxer engine already familiar in the brand’s range, with a power output of 109 CV for the R 12 NineT and slightly toned down for the R 12, reaching 95 CV. The former can manage power delivery thanks to the riding modes “Rain”, “Road” and “Dynamic”, while the latter can only do so through the riding modes “Rock” and “Roll”. Furthermore, due to the design of the new chassis, both have a new air box integrated under the seat, and finish with a “Twin Pipe” exhaust system with an inverted cone design that undoubtedly suits them perfectly.

Another element that matches the classic design of the BMW R 12 NineT is its instrumentation, consisting of two dials that combine analogue and digital technology, in which, apart from other information, one dial is reserved for the speedometer and the other for the tachometer; a fairly important detail because on the R 12 the instrumentation is represented only by the speedometer, and if we want a tachometer we will have to turn to the brand’s original accessories to fit it as an option. It is also worth noting that on the left we have a USB-C connection and, on the right, a 12 V socket.

Both models can already be ordered from the brand’s dealerships in Spain, with a starting price of 14,980 euros for the BMW R 12, while the R 12 NineT does the same from 17,900 euros.