Retro design with a modern soul: BMW honours the legendary R 90 S with the new R 12 S model
BMW Motorrad has unveiled the new R 12 S motorbike, which is the modern incarnation of the iconic R 90 S. This sports bike, which appeared 51 years ago, is still considered one of the best in its class, and now it has received a worthy successor.
BMW R 90 S. Photo: BMW
Here's What We Know
The R 12 S inherits the key features of its predecessor. In particular, the round headlight in a graceful fairing and a short curved windscreen. The standard Option 719 Classic II spoked wheels add a special retro charm to the bike. The orange colour this time is not called "Daytona Orange", but "Lava Orange Metallic". The R 12 S also has orange stitching on the seat cushion and red S emblems.
BMW R 12 S. The background was edited using artificial intelligence. Image: BMW
The BMW R 12 S is powered by a 1,170cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 109bhp at 7,000rpm and 115Nm of torque at 6,500rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with a dry single clutch. The motorbike accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 215 km/h.
The front suspension is an inverted fork with a 45 mm stem diameter and adjustable compression and rebound. The rear suspension is also adjustable. The braking system includes two 310mm discs with 4-piston calipers at the front and a 265mm disc with dual-piston caliper at the rear.
Despite its classic looks, the R 12 S boasts technological equipment. There's Hill Start Control, Gear Shift Assist Pro, heated grips, cruise control and Headlight Pro adaptive cornering lighting.
How Much Do They Cost?
You'll have to say goodbye to a significant amount of money for style. In Germany, prices for the BMW R 12 S start at 22,000 euros. In the US, sales will start in the first quarter of 2025 with prices starting at $21,590.
Source: BMW