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“Wow. What a looker.”
That’s what I blurted when I opened the press release for the 2025 R 12 S.
Last year, BMW introduced the R 12 cruiser and rebranded the R nine T as the R 12 nineT. Now, the lineup earns a third model with the arrival of the cafe-styled R 12 S.
Racing roots
BMW considers the R 90 S its “first superbike.” That’s an understandable label, given the model’s 67 peak horsepower, 124-mph top speed, and double-disk front braking system. All benchmarks at the time of the bike’s 1973 debut. It wasn’t long before the boxer-driven Beemer put that performance to good use. In 1976, the R90S won both the Isle of Man Production TT and Daytona 200, and Reg Pridmore won the 1977 AMA Superbike Championship on one.
Despite the model’s racing pedigree, most moto enthusiasts associate the R90S with its eye-catching Daytona Orange livery. That’s what BMW is counting on for the 2025 R 12 S.
The resemblance to the iconic model is evident in the R 12 S’s Lava Orange Metallic paint, clear-coated aluminum insets, and double red pinstriping. Even the side panel badge pays homage to the classic BMW, with its red 'S' mimicking the R90S’s red "900" medallion. Of course, there’s no missing the bikini fairing and tail cowl, but that’s just a taste of the model’s upgrades.
The full package
In addition to its R90S-inspired bodywork, the S-tier entry earns a slew of accessory add-ons such as Option 719 spoked wheels, a short tail section (with integrated LED lighting), and a swingarm-mounted license plate bracket.
Technology also elevates the 12 S, with Shift Assistant Pro enhancing its sporty character while Hill Start Assist and Headlight Pro highlight safety. Convenience isn’t lost on the Heritage model, either. Cruise control serves the travel-inclined and heated grips combat colder conditions. As expected, all these accessories come with a markup.
Price to pay
Starting at $21,590, the R 12 S doesn’t quite qualify as budget-friendly. But, the real question is whether it's worth the up-charge. Considering the model comes standard with BMW’s Select Package, two billet component packages, and accessories, it makes a pretty good case for that price point. A similarly equipped R nineT will run you $22,257.86. That means BMW includes the R90S-style paint job as an added bonus.
Most potential buyers will consider those savings when the R 12 S rolls into BMW showrooms in Q1 2025. However, I’m willing to wager that the model’s looks will play a bigger part in that decision.
| 2025 BMW R 12 S | |
|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $21,590 |
| Engine |
1,170 cc, air/liquid-cooled, eight-valve, flat twin
|
|
Transmission, final drive |
Six-speed, shaft |
| Claimed horsepower | 109 @ 7,000 rpm |
| Claimed torque | 85 foot-pounds @ 6,500 rpm |
| Frame |
Tubular steel trellis
|
| Front suspension | 45 mm fork, adjustable for spring preload, compression, and rebound damping; 4.7 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock, adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping; 4.7 inches of travel |
| Front brake |
Dual four-piston calipers, 310 mm discs with ABS
|
| Rear brake |
Two-piston caliper, 265 mm disc with ABS
|
| Rake, trail | 27.7 degrees, 4.4 inches |
| Wheelbase | 59.5 inches |
| Seat height | 31.3 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 4.2 gallons |
| Tires | 120/70ZR17 front, 180/55ZR17 rear |
| Claimed weight | 485 pounds |
| Available | Q1 2025 |
| Warranty | 36 months/36,000 miles |
| More info | bmw-motorcycles.com |
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