The BMW R 12 S
When BMW revealed the R 12 nineT, I couldn’t help but wonder if there was more in store for the classic 1,170cc boxer engine platform. Drawing inspiration from the iconic R 90 S of the 1970s, BMW Motorrad has introduced the all-new 2025 BMW R 12 S as a striking modern tribute.
This bike oozes retro charm while delivering the modern performance we’ve come to expect from BMW. It’s not just a bike; it’s a rolling homage to the golden era of motorcycling, reimagined for today’s riders.
A Foundation That’s Pure BMW
Beneath its vintage-inspired design, the R 12 S shares the same sturdy foundation as the R 12 nineT. The 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin, pushing out a claimed 109 hp at 7,000 rpm and 85 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine retains the same 101 x 73 mm bore and stroke dimensions, along with the six-speed transmission and shaft drive, ensuring that familiar boxer thrum.
The steel trellis frame remains unchanged, as does the adjustable 45mm inverted fork up front and the single-sided swingarm with Paralever brace at the rear. Braking duties are handled by dual 310mm discs with radial four-piston calipers up front and a 265mm disc with a two-piston caliper at the back, all enhanced by BMW’s ABS Pro.
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The Retro Aesthetic
Now, let’s talk about that design. BMW’s head of Motorrad Design, Edgar Heinrich, said the R 12 nineT drew heavily from the R 90 S. With the R 12 S, they’ve dialed the nostalgia up to eleven. The bike sports a rounded mini-fairing with a tinted windshield, paired with a solo seat capped off by a beautifully sculpted aluminum seat hump. The bodywork is finished in Lava Orange Metallic, complete with double red pinstripes—a deliberate nod to the 1975 Daytona Orange R 90 S.
Even the gauges have gone retro, with dual analog dials tucked behind the fairing, though you can opt for a digital TFT display if you’re into modern tech. The 17-inch aluminum spoke wheels, billet accessories, and blacked-out handlebars add to the premium feel.
Premium Features
This isn’t just a styling exercise—BMW has loaded the R 12 S with features to match its hefty price tag. It comes standard with:
- Hill Start Control
- Gear Shift Assist Pro
- Traction Control
- Heated grips
- Cruise control
- Adaptive cornering headlights
For riders who like to tweak their ride further, factory options include tire pressure monitoring, an anti-theft alarm, Connected Ride Control, and that slick TFT dash. Want more? There’s a catalog of accessories, from titanium exhausts to soft bags, ready to make the bike truly yours.
Riding Legacy
The R 12 S offers more than just good looks.. It’s an heir to the legacy of the Hans Muth-designed R 90 S, which set new standards in the ‘70s with its groundbreaking aerodynamics and 124 mph top speed. It was the bike that carried Reg Pridmore to victory in the inaugural AMA Superbike championship.
The Price of Nostalgia
Of course, all this history and tech come at a cost. With a price tag of $21,590, the R 12 S comes in significantly higher than the R 12 nineT’s $16,300. But for those who want a piece of BMW history reimagined with cutting-edge engineering, it might just be worth it.
The R 12 S is set to hit the market in early 2025. If you’re a fan of the R 90 S or just want a retro-modern roadster with style and substance, this one’s worth waiting for.
Final Thoughts
For me, the BMW R 12 S is a masterstroke—a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or just admiring it in your garage, this bike promises to deliver on every level. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a time machine that roars.
