The motorcycle is part of the new BMW R 12 family and stands out from the more road-oriented R 12 Roadster thanks to its consistent off-road orientation. This includes a 21-inch front wheel, long suspension travel, cross-spoke wheels and enhanced ergonomics for off-road riding in a standing position. The color scheme in the Lightwhite uni version with red seat and blue contrasting areas on the tank is also strongly reminiscent of the original from the 1980s.
Air/oil-cooled boxer engine with a familiar character
The R 12 G/S is powered by an air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine with a displacement of 1,170 cm³. The engine is already familiar from other models and produces 80 kW (109 hp) at 7,000 rpm. The maximum torque is 115 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The engine therefore offers sufficient power for both dynamic driving on the road and controlled power delivery off-road.
Power is transmitted via a clutch-operated six-speed gearbox and a low-maintenance cardan drive. Valve control is realized via double overhead chain-driven camshafts per cylinder (DOHC), whereby the valves are actuated via finger followers. The cylinder head covers have been visually revised and are reminiscent of earlier two-valve boxer engines. The single-flow exhaust system with raised rear silencer on the left-hand side of the vehicle emphasizes the classic character of the motorcycle.
Robust chassis base with high off-road capability
In terms of design, the R 12 G/S is based on a new tubular steel trellis bridge frame, which has fewer visible screw connections than previous frame concepts and therefore ensures a tidy appearance. The rear frame, also made of steel, is bolted on and thus supports individual conversions.
The chassis geometry has been specifically designed for off-road use. A fully adjustable upside-down telescopic fork with a 45 mm dip tube diameter guides the front wheel and offers 210 mm of suspension travel. At the rear, a Paralever swingarm with a directly linked, angled shock absorber is used, which has travel-dependent damping and provides 200 mm of suspension travel. An 18-inch rear wheel is optionally available as part of the Enduro Package Pro, which is intended to provide more traction, riding precision and ground clearance instead of the standard 17-inch wheel.
The ground clearance is 240 mm in the standard version and increases to 255 mm in the Enduro Package Pro. The chassis is complemented by a powerful brake system with two axially bolted 2-piston floating callipers at the front and a single-disc brake at the rear. The lean angle-optimized ABS Pro is fitted as standard, enabling controlled braking even in bends.
Electronics for safety and riding pleasure
The BMW R 12 G/S is equipped with three riding modes as standard: “Rain”, “Road” and “Enduro”. Each mode adapts throttle response, traction control (DTC), engine drag torque control (MSR) and ABS behavior to the respective riding situation. For ambitious off-road riders, the “Enduro Pro” riding mode is available as an option, in which many assistance systems are greatly reduced or switched off to enable maximum control off-road.
The DTC traction control can be completely deactivated for off-road driving. The MSR ensures stability when the accelerator is abruptly released or downshifted – a safety benefit, especially on slippery surfaces.
The Shift Assistant Pro is available as an optional extra. It allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts, ensuring smoother gear changes with less interruption to traction. The optional Hill Start Control Pro function also makes stopping and starting on hills easier.
Display instruments and lighting technology
As standard, the R 12 G/S has a centrally positioned round instrument with integrated digital display showing speed, gear and riding mode. This can optionally be replaced by a modern micro TFT display with a 3.5-inch diagonal. Among other things, this offers the “Pure Ride” mode, in which only the most necessary information is displayed – a feature that is particularly suitable for riders who prefer a reduced, distraction-free cockpit.
Modern LED units are used for the lighting. The compact round headlights with an “X” shaped light signature are standard, as are LED indicators. The “Headlight Pro” adaptive cornering light, which is available as an optional extra, promises better visibility at night.
Ergonomics and equipment for off-road adventures
The seating position has been specifically optimized for off-road use. The butted aluminum handlebars are positioned high and close to the rider, enabling an ergonomic posture both sitting and standing. There is a choice of three different seat benches: a flat solo seat bench, a two-person seat bench and a rally seat bench with 20 mm more height.
The footrest system can be adapted depending on the equipment package. While the basic version is already suitable for occasional off-road riding, the Enduro Package Pro offers a special Enduro footrest system with a larger contact surface and increased grip. This package also includes a handlebar riser, hand protectors and a large engine guard.
Steel eyelets on the rear frame and fabric straps under the seat are available as standard for securing luggage. The optional extras also include pillion footrests and their brackets for additional lashing points.
Colour options and customization
The R 12 G/S is available in three color variants:
- In the basic version, it comes in matt night black with a black seat,
- as a surcharge color in Lightwhite uni with a red seat bench,
- and in the exclusive 719 “Aragonite” option with a mix of sand rover, racing red and mineral gray.
In addition, the motorcycle can be customized with a wide range of optional extras and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories – from various protective components to storage solutions and design parts from the Option 719 line.
Conclusion
The new BMW R 12 G/S closes a gap in the BMW Motorrad model portfolio. It combines classic enduro charm with modern technology and is aimed at both style-conscious nostalgics and technically adept adventurers. With its robust construction, all-terrain equipment and extensive customization options, it offers a convincing option for riders who want to ride off-road – without compromising on comfort and modern safety features.
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