BMW has revamped its retro roadster line-up internationally with two new models – R 12 and R 12 nineT, which replace the R nineT. The R 12 is a middleweight cruiser that sits below the gargantuan R 18 in the line-up, while the R 12 nineT is a neo-retro roadster.

1. Same chassis on both but different suspension and wheels
2. Keyless ignition, all-LED lighting standard on both
3. Both bikes have an extensive range of factory accessories available

BMW R 12: new cruiser sitting below the R18

In the R 12, the air/oil-cooled, 1,170cc, horizontally opposed (boxer) twin makes 95hp at 6,500rpm and 110Nm at 6,000rpm. A new tubular bridge steel space frame nestles this tried-and-tested mill, which is actually a stressed member. A non-adjustable USD fork and a paralever rear suspension handle suspension duties on the R 12. 

Wheel sizes are typical cruiser with a 19-inch rim up front and a 16-inch one at the rear. Tyre sizes are 100/90-19 up front and 150/80-16 out back. Braking hardware is surprisingly potent for what is meant to be a relaxed bike, with twin 310mm discs up front mated to radially mounted 4-pot calipers and a 265mm disc at the rear with a 2-piston caliper. 

Cornering ABS and traction control are standard here along with two riding modes – Roll and Rock.

BMW R 12 nineT: neo-retro roadster revamped

The R 12 nineT is essentially the updated version of the R nineT, although it is unclear whether it will replace it. While the R 12 nineT makes the same 109hp (peak) as the R nineT, it arrives 250rpm earlier, at 7,000rpm. Peak torque is down by 1Nm and now stands at 115Nm. Weight has gone down by 1kg and the R 12 nineT weighs 220kg, with its 16-litre fuel tank brimmed (2 litres smaller than the R nineT). Seat height has reduced to 795mm from the R nineT’s 805mm.

While the 4-piston radially mounted calipers are the same, the front discs have shrunk slightly to 310mm, down from the 320mm units on the R nineT. Considering this is more of a relaxed roadster, this shouldn’t affect the riding experience too much. A fully adjustable USD fork and paralever rear suspension handle suspension duties here. Electronic aids include cornering ABS, traction control and three riding modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic.

BMW retails nearly all of its big bike line-up in India, so we expect both of these new models to make their way here in due course.