2024 BMW R 12 NineT and R 12 - First Look

The steering geometry is also different between the two models. The R 12 nineT has a 59.5-inch wheelbase with a 27.7° rake and 4.4 inches of trail. With a more relaxed character, the R 12 has a longer 5.2-inch trail and a 29.3° rake, contributing to a longer 59.8-inch wheelbase. The roadster comes with 17-inch wheels, front and rear, while the R 12 comes with a 19-inch front wheel and a 16-inch rear wheel. That difference contributes to the R 12 nineT having a higher seat at 31.3 inches from the ground, while the R 12’s saddle rests at 29.7 inches.

The R 12 nineT also comes standard with two round instruments, while the R 12 has a single dial. For a more modern touch, the analog displays can be replaced with an optional 3.5-inch TFT display.

The key to the R 12 range’s versatility is its new one-piece steel trellis frame, which replaces the original nineT’s two-piece front frame. The one-piece frame gives the R 12 models a cleaner look, and reduces weight.The steel trellis rear subframe remains a separate piece bolted to the frame.

Both the R 12 and R 12 nineT models are powered by a 1,170cc air/oil-cooled DOHC Boxer. The engine is a continuation of the Boxer first introduced in 2007 on the HP 2 Sport, with updates to help it meet today’s emissions standards. The engine has a 101 mm bore and 73 mm stroke, unchanged from the existing R nineT’s opposed Twin. For the R 12 range, BMW redesigned the cylinder head covers, adding elements from its classic two-valve Boxer engines.

The R 12 nineT’s performance figures are similar to its predecessor, with BMW claiming 109 hp at 7,000 rpm and 85 lb-ft. at 6,500 rpm. The R 12 cruiser, however, has a different state of tune, claiming a more sedate 95 hp at 6,500 rpm and 81 lb-ft. at 6,000 rpm. In either version, the engine taps out at  8,500 rpm.

With the new chassis, BMW designed a new airbox that is integrated under the seat and no longer requires an intake duct running below the tank as on the R nineT. The exhaust system has also been overhauled, with a new manifold routing leading to a catalytic converter in front of the rear wheel. Unlike the R nineT, the new exhaust does not require a flapper valve. The exhaust system ends with twin mufflers on the left side of the rear wheel. On the R 12 nineT, the header pipe and catalytic converter housing are chrome-plated while the twin mufflers are electro-polished. The R 12’s manifold and catalytic converter are electro-polished and the mufflers have a brushed finish. Of course, those are the stock systems and BMW is offering a range of customization options including a titanium exhaust.

Completing the powertrain are a hydraulically operated dry clutch and a six-speed transmission, with power delivered to the rear via a drive shaft. BMW offers a Shift Assistant Pro option that adds clutchless shifting.

The R 12 nineT comes with three selectable ride modes: Rain, Road, and Dynamic. The R 12 lacks a Rain mode, and taking a page from the R 18 models, the Dynamic mode is renamed Rock, and the Road mode is called Roll. The ride modes offer a different balance of throttle response, traction control and engine drag torque control. The lean-sensitive BMW Motorrad ABS Pro comes standard on both R 12 models, while Hill Start Assist Pro is an available add-on.

The R 12 is equipped with a non-adjustable 45mm inverted fork, and a Paralever swingarm with a fully-adjustable directly-linked shock, both offering 3.5 inches of travel. The R 12 nineT’s suspension is similar, but the fork is adjustable for rebound and compression, and it offers 4.7 inches of travel front and rear.

Stopping duties for both models are handled by dual radially-mounted four-piston monoblock calipers with 310mm discs up front and a single two-piston floating caliper with a 265mm disc at the rear.

Both models offer full LED lighting, with the choice of an optional Headlight Pro cornering light. On U.S. models, the rear lights are integrated with the rear turn signals, while European models will have a separate central taillight.

Other features include standard keyless ride system, USB-C and 12V power sockets, adjustable hand levers, and a steering damper. Intelligent Emergency Call is available as standard where markets allow. Cruise control and smartphone connectivity are optional.

2024 BMW R 12 nineT