BMW R 12 S 2026 — Specifications

On this occasion, BMW has taken pleasure in reviving an icon from its past. The R 12 S is not only a successful exercise in style but also boasts a wealth of embellishments. Enthusiasts of the belle époque will be captivated by this revival of the celebrated R 90 S. A motorcycle that brought a welcome dose of sportiness to the brand, at a time when BMWs were more renowned for their seriousness than for their adrenaline.

The R 12 S instantly grabs the eye with its “Lava Orange” paint, directly derived from the R 90 S’s “Orange Daytona” of 1975. The finish is distinguished by a clear coat over the tank to showcase the brushed aluminum surfaces. This flamboyance had already been hinted at by the Ninety concept of 2013. Its overall design, but not its trim, would result in the NineT Racer, which experienced only modest success. This time, BMW refines and matures the idea, with a "sportivo-customized" roadster rather than a "cafe-racerized" one. The effect is striking and distinguished.

Derived from the R 12 NineT (and where you can find a test ride here ->), the R 12 S cuts a sporty figure with a vintage-style mini fork and matching seat cowl. The seat features stitching in the same tone as the paintwork... While the entire motorcycle accumulates a number of design elements to enrich the experience. Absolutely not to enhance performance but to flatter its ego. The R 12 S wants to be a star and is going all out to achieve it.

With rhinestones, glitter, and Dell’Orto carburetors? No, 719-series components, such as the Classic II spoke wheels and the Shadow Billet I and II packs: the cylinder head covers, the oil level cap, the ignition coil covers, the foot controls, the levers, the can covers, the passenger footrests, and the handlebar-end mirrors are all machined aluminum.

Furthermore, the R 12 S includes the Comfort pack. The rider then benefits from heated grips, cruise control, an Up&Down shifter, hill-start assist, and adaptive cornering lights.

Let this not distract us from a central element of the motorcycle: its engine. While the large 1300 ultra-modern engine permeates the entire range, the NineT steadfastly retains confidence in the air-cooled 1200 boxer. Despite the years and stringent regulations, it is still there, with 109 horsepower in the connecting rods, 11.7 mkg of torque, and that inimitable, round, and rumbling force.

The R 12 S can also rely on substantial Brembo braking, a beautiful 45 mm adjustable inverted fork, the essential Paralever single-sided swingarm, 3 Riding Modes, cornering ABS, traction control and engine braking control, keyless start… and a host of options and accessories. Does it need them? If only to inflate a bill that is already looking decidedly salty?

We’ll give you a small preview anyway, such as a license plate carrier to clean up the rear, tire pressure monitoring, emergency call, micro-TFT screen… Ah no, no, no, we’re not going to remove the double analog speedometer, which perfectly suits the philosophy of this "R 90 S Spirit" of new times.

In its time, the BMW R 90 S was not only the sportiest model in the range but also one of the fastest production motorcycles, with nearly 200 km/h top speed. Today, its equivalent would be the S 1000 RR. BMW reminds us that it won the very first race and the first American AMA Superbike championship (with Reg Pridmore), came close to winning the 1972 Bol d'Or with Hubert Rigal, secured the Tour de France Moto with the same Hubert Rigal, also conquered a victory at the Tourist Trophy in 1976, in the Production category - The lady knew how to talk! The descendants will please.

M.B. - Photos constructeur