BMR R12 GS First Ride

2025/2026 BMW R 12 G/S – The Neo‑Retro Adventure

What is it?
The R 12 G/S is BMW Motorrad’s homage to the original 1980 R80 G/S—designed for mixed terrain riding with classic boxer aesthetics

Engine & Performance

1,170 cc air/oil‑cooled boxer twin, producing ~107–109 hp @ 7,000 rpm and ~85 lb‑ft torque
0–60 mph in ~4.1 sec; top speed ~124–130 mph
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Chassis & Off‑road Gear

Steel space frame with 21″ front, 17″ (or optional 18″) rear spoked wheels
Long‑travel suspension: 45 mm USD forks (210 mm travel) + adjustable rear shock (200 mm travel) .
Twin 310 mm front and 265 mm rear disc brakes with cornering ABS; off‑road-friendly high exhaust
Riding Modes & Electronics

Standard: Road, Rain, Enduro; with Enduro Pro package: rear ABS off, wheelie/traction control off
Features cruise control, hill‑start assist, tire‑pressure monitoring, adaptive lights, heated grips, optional TFT display & quick‑shifter
Ergonomics & Specs

Solo seat standard (860 mm); Enduro Pro → 875 mm; Rallye seat → up to 895 mm
Wet weight: ~229 kg; fuel capacity ~15.5 L; quoted fuel economy ~55 mpg; range ~188 miles
UK price from £14,420; US MSRP ~US $17,090; dealer arrival Q3 2026
🕰️ Historical BMW R 12 (1935–1942)

Pre‑war flat‑twin side‑valve machine with first hydraulically damped telescopic forks
Produced ~36,000 units; heavy-duty frame with rigid rear and sprung saddle;
Engine output: ~18–20 hp, top speed ~68–74 mph; 4‑speed hand‑shift, shaft drive, drum brakes