BMW R 12 nineT: BMW retro revolution

BMW R 12 nineT, the successor to the popular R nineT model that burst onto the scene in 2013, combines old school with modernity. It was designed by Ola Stenegärd, a 15-year BMW veteran who also created the S1000RR superbike. The R 12 nineT maintains the style of its predecessor, the R nineT, with an added dose of refinement.

Key features such as the signature toaster-style fuel tank and café-style tailgate add a retro touch. But it's not just about aesthetics – the entire bike is designed around a one-piece tubular space frame with a bolt-on subframe that allows for personalization.

Typically for a BMW, the R 12 nineT comes equipped with premium components: inverted forks, Paralever rear suspension, wireless sprung wheels and radially mounted four-spoke Brembo monobloc brakes with steel braided lines. At the heart of the motorcycle is an approximately 1,200cc air- and oil-cooled boxer twin that boasts a newly designed air intake system and an all-new exhaust system.

However, we are still waiting for official information on the exact displacement and power of the engine, as well as the price, availability and dates of the start of production or release.

The purpose of the innovation is, as Dr. Markus Schramm, head of BMW Motorrad, "to continue the successful heritage story around the legendary BMW boxer motorcycles with an even more classic, reduced design, even greater freedom in customization and, of course, new and innovative technology."

The new BMW R 12 nineT can boast with the original 1200 boxer engine with a redesigned air filter and exhaust system that delivers a classic motorcycle ride. Designers have paid special attention to details, including a revised front fender, LED main light with a black light guide and two circular instruments in the traditional style of days gone by.

Edgar Heinrich, head of design at BMW Motorrad, points out that “pure design language subordinated to the clear line of the tank/seat/rear, in the style of the traditional /5 or the legendary R 90 S from the 70s.” Design highlights include hoods on the sides in the triangle area of the frame, reminiscent of BMW motorcycles from the 70s.

In terms of customization, it offers new BMW R 12 nineT a wide range of options, from the integrated LED rear light in the seat, which enables a "short tail", to the extensive and high-quality range of original BMW Motorrad accessories.
More detailed information about the new BMW R 12 nineT will be published in the second half of 2023.

So what does the new R 12 nineT bring? Its design and technology have truly leapfrogged a generation while maintaining that authentic BMW Motorrad soul that fans of the brand know and appreciate. Its arrival is like a gift to the eyes and soul of every motorcycle enthusiast.

As the old saying goes: "Everything good is worth waiting for." And BMW Motorrad seems to have achieved exactly that with the R 12 nineT. Through a century of innovation and passion for motorcycling, BMW has proven itself to be worth the wait.

Finally, as the saying goes: "Nothing lasts forever, except change." BMW R 12 nineT is clear proof that BMW Motorrad is not afraid to modify and upgrade its legendary motorcycles. By faithfully preserving its rich history while stepping boldly into the future, BMW Motorrad continues to set the standard in the motorcycling world. We look forward to what lies ahead in the next century.