BMW R 12 nineT Test Review (2024)

The R 12 that BMW adds to the model name naturally refers to the engine capacity of the new nineT. This engine is powered by a two-cylinder boxer with a displacement of 1,170 cc, which is good for a peak power of 109 hp and a maximum torque of 115 Nm.

The new model name should bring the nineT more in line with that other ‘heritage’ performance horse in BMW’s well-stocked stable: the R 18. In addition, the new R 12 platform isn’t just reserved for the nineT, but the rear. the clan immediately received a new branch in the form of a more bobber-esque R 12. The shape and the engine are the same, but the content is completely different. NineT is considered the sportier of the two.

Design and concept BMW R 12 nineT

The beautiful mountain roads in the central part of Malaga await us for our first introduction to the new BMW R 12 nineT. Warming up in front of a hotel lobby, it’s immediately apparent that BMW has chosen a slightly different approach. The familiar retro shapes are still there, but the café racer-like lower lines of the previous generation make way for a more casual design.

The handlebars are higher, the tank is shorter and the saddle is thicker. These ergonomic adjustments should make the R 12 nineT more accessible to a wider audience. The Spartan approach was also one of the most frequently heard complaints against its predecessor.

The R 12 gets a completely new facelift. Where the original nineT still used a boxer engine as a load-carrying structure between two separate frame parts, BMW now uses a one-piece main frame – with a subframe bolted to it. This option has two main goals: more stability and more aggressive driving on the one hand, and more driving space on the other hand. By now connecting the shock absorber directly to the main frame, the individual builders who make up the bulk of the ninth specter have more freedom to get rid of the subframe. With the old one you had to find a new place for the shock absorber that was still upright instead of side mounted, which turned out to be very difficult.

A nice surprise is the digital dashboard that BMW installs – optional, as the R 12 comes standard with two analogue counters. You’d think that a modern watch shop would take away the lustrous character that the nineT likes to shine, but the thin TFT band looks good and looks good to read. Navigation is also very easy to operate through the buttons on the left side. Keyless Rdie, 12V connection and USB-C port are now standard.

Driving behavior BMW R 12 nineT

And this modification has the desired effect, because the new BMW R 12 nineT immediately feels better. The handlebars are pleasantly close, the saddle is comfortable and the knee angle is wide – although it remains a low-slung motorcycle, of course. The clutch engages well and the boxer gets the smoothness that has characterized this engine for decades. The 1.2-liter block remains 109 hp, but now reaches that power at 7,000 revolutions per minute (previously 250 revolutions). The maximum torque developed at 6,500 rpm is slightly lower (from 116 to 115 Nm), although BMW hastens to say that the boxer puts more Newton meters on the road at low revolutions.

A logical evolution, the new BMW R 12 nineT must also meet the Euro5+ restrictions. Due to the same emissions, the ventilation and exhaust system also had to be modified, as evidenced by the updated air box (now under the seat) and the new chromed ‘reverse cone’ exhaust system. Not only does this BMW look more respectable, it also sounds a little less lively – but luckily it looks like a real boxer.

Fortunately, this does not stop the nineT car in action, because with a knife between your teeth you still have the feeling that you are in the pilot of a WWII fighter in full dive. Now you can easily pass through the Spanish countryside in fourth gear, because this twin is not only beautiful but also very capable.

The BMW R 12’s six-speed gearbox still isn’t the smoothest transmission in the motorcycle world, but the optional quick up/down shifter makes shifting somewhat easier. The front axle of the new nineT is now fully adjustable, which is not an unnecessary luxury if you look at the speed at which this BMW likes to move. The steering behavior remains natural and the quick changes are child’s play, as we now expect from boxer BMW. Brembo speed-mounted Brembo monoblocks underline the sporty expectations of the R 12 nineT: stopping power is impressive, but it takes some time to come into play.

Conclusion BMW R 12 nineT

In many ways, the new BMW R 12 remains the nine as we’ve known it for years: a stylishly finished retro boxer that rides quietly when it should and roars loudly when it’s allowed. The bike compartment and engine block are in doubt.

The sharp edges have been reduced a bit, which should make this motorcycle more attractive to many viewers. And the mission also seems to be successful, even if it is at the cost of a bad restaurant run. What you have to force with a digital dashboard, with spoke wheels and with a quick shifter should not be allowed for an engine that costs 18,350 euros. A regular BMW?

Read the full test of the BMW R 12 nineT Motorcyclist (March 2024) Photographers Markus Jahn and Jörg Künstle.