BMW R 12 S as an ode to classic R 90 S

In 1973, the BMW R 90 S was a sporty sensation with 67 hp and a top speed of 200 km/h. A power level that is the minimum you need today to get along nicely in traffic. At the time, it was a superbike. The then chief designer Hans A. Muth made a name for himself with the design. The BMW R 90 S was the world’s first production motorcycle with a handlebar fairing designed based on aerodynamic principles.

Racing successes from BMW Motorrad

It was not long before the image of the R 90 S also benefited from racing successes. For example, at the Production TT on the Isle of Man, where Hans-Otto Butenuth and Helmut Dähne celebrated a class victory in 1976. In the same year, Steve McLaughlin also won the prestigious 200 Miles of Daytona. For this reason, too, an R 90 S is today, as then, one of the particularly sought-after BMW Motorrad motorcycles.

Orange color nod to then

The new BMW R 12 S has colors and styling that remind you of that R 90 S. That includes the steering cowl with tinted screen the Lavaorange metallic exterior color as a nod to the legendary 1975 R 90 S Daytona Orange. We also know the red inlaid ‘S’ on the side panels from that 90 S.

BMW R 12 S classic styling, new technology

Technically, any comparison falls short. The BMW R 12 S moves with the times and offers electronics and technology you would expect on contemporary motorcycles. A quickshifter Shift Assistant Pro is standard and a headlight with LED lights and cornering lights. We also note Hill Start Control, heated grips and cruise control.

Option 719 and Billet packages.

BMW supplies the R 12 S with numerous Option 719 components. Those are those fancy parts made of milled aluminum. The shiny chrome wire wheels also come from the 719 collection. Handlebars and front fork tubes are finished in black. Parts of the Billet package Shadow are the ignition coil covers on the left and right sides, the oil filler cap and cylinder head covers coated in matte Avus black metallic. The Shadow II Billet package includes footrests, shift and brake pedals, brake and clutch levers, front brake and clutch expansion tank covers, as well as mirrors on the handlebar ends.

Even more options

Options include a titanium exhaust system, soft saddlebags and navigation preparation. Other options include tire pressure monitoring (RDC), anti-theft alarm system (DWA), Intelligent Emergency Call, Connected Ride Control and the digital display with micro-TFT display as an alternative to the classic round instruments.

The BMW R 12 S will hit the market next year (2025) at a price starting at €26,405.