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Bikes > Motor

All-new BMW R12 nineT roadster and R12 cruiser unveiled

Retro but with many, many improvements

Do you want a cruiser or do you want a roadster? PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

One of BMW Motorrad’s most popular models (R nineT), when it was launched back in 2013, quickly made a name for itself as a well-sorted-out retro roadster that could be a blank canvas for customizers.

Over the years, the model spawned several variations like the G/S Scrambler and the Racer. This time around, BMW has overhauled the platform with a completely new chassis and a revised engine while retaining the signature air-cooled and flat-twin design.

An all-new frame and a revised airbox are just some of the improvements. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

The same, 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer engine as before is retained, but now benefits from a new, fully integrated airbox under the seat as well as a new, left-mounted twin-flow exhaust system.

The motor is rated at 109hp and 115Nm of torque in the R12 nineT roadster, and 95hp and 110Nm of torque for the R12 cruiser. A shaft drive is still employed.

A stylish silhouette. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

The chassis is a completely new tubular bridge steel space frame, compared to its predecessor which used a front and rear main frame.

The new design saves weight by eliminating the need for additional fasteners while also providing a cleaner aesthetic. The rear subframe is also made of tubular steel and bolted to the space frame.

The R12 nineT roadster offers improved ergonomics and a cleaner aesthetic than before. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

For the R12 nineT, the shape of the tank, the seat, and the tail hump create a rising, dynamic line in profile. This also yields improved ergonomics as the tank is 30mm shorter and narrower at the rear.

This places the rider closer to the handlebars, improves knee contact with the tank, and creates a more front-oriented seating position. The front fork is also fully adjustable, and the seat height is 795mm.

The R12 will give the Harley-Davidson Sportster a run for its money. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

For the R12 cruiser, on the other hand, the tank is shaped to evoke the so-called Toaster Tanks of 1970s-era BMW models.

It has a classic teardrop shape, forming a descending line that blends with the standard solo seat and curved, low-mounted rear-wheel cover. A 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels and wide handlebars complete the cruiser look. Seat height is a very manageable 754mm.

A 3.5-inch digital display is fitted to some variants. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

Even though both are billed as retro bikes, they still benefit from BMW’s extensive safety technology.

ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control, engine drag control, hill-start control, cruise control, heated grips, tire-pressure monitoring, keyless ride, lean-sensitive lighting, quickshifter, and phone connectivity are standard for both models.

But the analog instrument pod looks great, too. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

The R12 nineT features Rain, Road, and Dynamic riding modes, while the R12 has merely Roll and Rock modes to reflect its rawer persona. The standard instrumentation consists of analog gauges along with a USB-C and a 12V socket, but specific variants can be had with a 3.5-inch digital display.

It looks like the air/oil-cooled boxer engine will keep going for many more years. PHOTO FROM BMW MOTORRAD

The R12 cruiser is priced at P1,215,000 for the Aventurine Red, and P1,315,000 for the Option 719 Avus Silver with a digital display.

The R12 nineT roadster is priced at P1,395,000 for the Black Storm Metallic, P1,395,000 for the San Remo Green Metallic, and P1,555,000 for the Option 719 Aluminum, all with a digital display. The San Remo Green with analog instrumentation is P1,375,000.

All models come with a five-year or 500,000km comprehensive warranty, and are now available at all BMW Motorrad dealerships.



Andy Leuterio

Andy is both an avid cyclist and a car enthusiast who has finally made the shift to motorcycles. You've probably seen him on his bicycle or motorbike overtaking your crawling car. He is the author of the ‘Quickshift’ column.



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