[New Model] The BMW R12GS: A Modern Take on a Classic Icon

Motorcycle & Industry

BMW's "R12 G/S", whose teaser image was released, has been officially announced overseas. Based on the R12, it has a design based on the classic R80G/S and 21-inch front wheels, creating a neo-classic off-road motorcycle. It is scheduled to be introduced in Japan in the summer of 2025.

Based on the R12 nineT, it embodies the R80G/S look, with a 21-inch front wheel.

The R12 nineT series inherits BMW's iconic air-oil-cooled boxer engine and shaft drive. The new derivative model, the R12 G/S, has been added.

The design motif is the 1980 R80 G/S, the original GS, BMW's first off-road vehicle and the original adventure bike. Based on the engine and body of the R12 nineT, it is a neo-classical off-road vehicle with a newly designed exterior and suspension.

The combination of a bikini cowl, up fenders, long-stroke front and rear suspension, and 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire spoke wheels ensures a ground clearance of 240mm. The predecessor of the R12 nineT, the R nineT, had a model called the R nineT Urban G/S. While the R nineT Urban G/S had 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, the new R12 G/S is more off-road oriented.

The "R12 G/S" (BMW) has a design reminiscent of the original GS R80 G/S. The basic package is the same as the R12 nineT, but the exterior and legs are newly designed.

There are three body colors in total. The white version comes with an optional R80 G/S-style white and blue body color and red seats.

"Option 719 Aragonit" has a beige body color and a red frame.

The basic version is all black, with each part finished in matte black.

The LED headlights feature the iconic X-shaped design of the modern GS series, asserting the GS lineage.

The air filter cover is exclusive. The body colors white and black are G here/The large S logo is featured.

An off-road model is available, and the body has been redesigned to be more stable.

The engine is a 1170cc air-oil-cooled boxer that produces 109 PS at 7000 rpm and 11.7 kg-m at 6500 rpm, just like the base model R12 nineT. The electronically controlled throttle has three riding modes: "Road," "Rain," and "Enduro," with an optional "Enduro Pro" mode available.

The one-piece steel tubular bridge space frame is inherited from the base model, but the steering head has been moved slightly higher and forward. The caster angle has been increased from 27.7 degrees on the base model to 26.9 degrees, and the trail has been increased from 110.7 to 120.8 mm to improve vehicle stability. The wheelbase has also been increased by 60 mm from the base model to 1580 mm.

It is equipped with a 1170cc air-oil-cooled boxer twin with a DOHC 4-valve head. It produces ample torque from low RPMs and is lively even at high RPMs.

The exhaust has one outlet on the left, whereas other models in the series have two on the left. It is a cone-shaped up-type exhaust.

Equipped with long suspension and plenty of off-road options

The front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable, with 210mm front and 200mm rear suspension travel and 240mm ground clearance. The entire body is suitable for off-roading.

21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are standard, but the optional Enduro Package Pro is equipped with 18-inch rear wheels. The seat height is 875mm, 15mm higher than standard. The Enduro Package Pro also includes an enduro footrest with deeper spikes for off-roading, and a riser that can raise the handlebars by 20mm.

There are also options available, such as a "rally seat" that can increase the seat height by another 20mm. For those who want to enjoy more serious off-roading, customization is available.

The local price in Germany starts from $18490.83. It was announced at the Tokyo MC Show that the Japanese version will be released this summer. The price has not been announced, but we will wait for further information.

It is equipped with an enduro-compatible Marzocchi φ45mm inverted fork. The suspension travel is 210mm. The front brake uses a Brembo 2-piston caliper with a φ310mm floating disc. BMW Motorrad ABS Pro is installed as standard.

The front fork is fully adjustable, with a preload adjuster on the right side of the fork top and rebound and compression adjusters on the left side.

The rear suspension is equipped with a 265 mm diameter disc, a 2-pod caliper, and BMW's traditional Paralever. The rear suspension is also fully adjustable, with a suspension travel of 200 mm.

The circular meter combines an analog speedometer with an LCD display. The indicators are concentrated in the center. An aluminum tapered bar handle and keyless ride are standard.

Rubberless footpegs are standard, and an up-and-down quick shifter can be added as a factory option.

Optionally, a rally-spec cowl is available with an extended fairing and brackets for mounting a navigation system, etc. Engine guards and off-road footrests and tires are also available.

A rally seat that increases seat height by 20mm is available as an option.

A neo-classic off-road motorcycle that combines the style of yesteryear with modern riding. You can improve its off-road suitability according to your preferences.

R12G/S Main Specifications (2025 European Specification)

・Overall Length x Width x Height: 2250mm x 970 x 1256mm
・Wheelbase: 1580mm
・Seat Height: 860mm
・Vehicle Weight: 229kg
・Engine: Air-oil cooled 4-stroke horizontally opposed 2-cylinder DOHC 4-valve 1170cc
・Maximum Output: 109PS/7000rpm
・Maximum Torque: 11.7kg-m/6500rpm
・Gearbox: 6-speed return
・Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.5L
・Brakes: F = W disc, R = disc
・Tire: F=90/90-21, R=150/70 R17
・Price: $18490.83

 

See BMW Model Page