BMW Motorrad recently unveiled the new R 12 G/S, which pays homage to its rich off-road heritage while incorporating modern technology and design. This model echoes the spirit of the iconic R 80 G/S, the first production enduro with a boxer engine, which revolutionized the motorcycle world in 1980. The R 12 G/S captures the essence of its predecessor with its design elements, including long suspension travel, cross-spoke wheels, and a compact cockpit fairing, all while delivering contemporary performance and features.
The R 12 G/S offers a range of ergonomic adjustments to cater to diverse riding styles and preferences. The standard configuration features a flat solo seat, ideal for enduro riding, especially in a standing position. Optional seat configurations include a Pillion Package for two riders and a Rallye Seat, which increases the rider’s seat height. For off-road enthusiasts, the “Enduro Package Pro” includes an enduro footrest system with an enlarged contact area and spike rows for optimal grip. The butted aluminium tubular handlebars can be further customized with an optional 20 mm riser from the Enduro Package.
Powering the R 12 G/S is the air/oil-cooled 1,170 cc boxer engine, a hallmark of BMW Motorrad. This engine delivers 80 kW (109 hp) at 7,000 rpm and 115 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, providing a robust torque curve and a distinctive sound. The motorcycle features a left-hand exhaust system with a high-mounted rear silencer, adhering to the classic enduro style.
The R 12 G/S comes standard with “Rain,” “Road,” and “Enduro” riding modes, with an additional “Enduro Pro” mode available as part of the Enduro Package Pro. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control (MSR) are also standard, enhancing rider safety and control. An optional Shift Assistant Pro allows for clutchless shifting, improving dynamic performance and comfort.
The motorcycle’s frame comprises a one-piece tubular bridge steel spaceframe with a bolted-on rear frame, optimized for off-road ergonomics and a wide steering angle. The R 12 G/S features a large 21-inch front wheel for optimal off-road performance, with a 17-inch rear wheel as standard and an 18-inch rear wheel available in the Enduro Package Pro.
For superior off-road capability, the R 12 G/S is equipped with a fully adjustable upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a Paralever swingarm with an angled, fully adjustable rear shock absorber, providing long spring travel. The braking system includes a twin disc brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear, complemented by BMW Motorrad ABS Pro for safe braking, even in corners.
The R 12 G/S features a classically designed, centrally positioned round instrument and a 12 V socket. LED light units are standard, with an optional Headlight Pro offering an adaptive headlight for enhanced night riding safety. The motorcycle also includes a Keyless Ride for convenient locking functions.
The R 12 G/S is available in three colour options: a basic Night black matt, an optional Light white, and the premium Option 719 Aragonit. Each colour scheme is designed to enhance the motorcycle’s classic and purist enduro aesthetic.
Key highlights of the R 12 G/S include its classic enduro design, the powerful boxer engine, the left-hand single-flow exhaust system, the one-piece tubular spaceframe, fully adjustable suspension, a 21-inch front wheel, BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, various riding modes, DTC and MSR, a classic round instrument panel, LED lighting, Keyless Ride, and a range of customization options. The R 12 G/S aims to deliver a blend of heritage and modern performance, catering to riders who seek an authentic and capable enduro motorcycle.
Key Features and Specs:
Design:
- Classic, purist enduro design, reminiscent of the R 80 G/S.
- Compact cockpit fairing and a distinct silhouette.
- Three colour options: Night black matt, Light white, and Option 719 Aragonit.
Engine:
- Air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine.
- Displacement: 1,170 cc.
- Power: 80 kW (109 hp) at 7,000 rpm.
- Torque: 115 Nm at 6,500 rpm.
- Left-hand single-flow exhaust system with a high-mounted rear silencer.
Drivetrain:
- Transmission: 6-speed.
- Final Drive: Shaft drive.
Dimensions and Weights:
- Seat Height: 33.9 in. (standard)
- Wet Weight: around 504 lbs.
- Fuel Capacity: 4.1 gal.
Chassis and Suspension:
- One-piece tubular spaceframe with a bolted-on rear frame.
- Fully adjustable upside-down telescopic fork at the front.
- Parallel swingarm with an angled, fully adjustable rear shock absorber.
- Long suspension travel for off-road capabilities.
- Standard 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel.
- Optional 18-inch rear wheel with the “Enduro Package Pro.”
Braking and Safety:
- Twin disc brake at the front, single disc brake at the rear.
- BMW Motorrad ABS Pro for cornering safety.
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control (MSR) as standard.
Electronics:
- “Rain,” “Road,” and “Enduro” riding modes as standard.
- “Enduro Pro” riding mode option.
- Classic round instrument panel with an optional digital display.
- LED lighting is standard, with an optional Headlight Pro.
- Keyless Ride.
- 12 Volt socket.
Ergonomics:
- Three seat options.
- Enduro footrests.
- Handlebar risers.
