This week, BMW announced the stunning R12S, a sporty interpretation of their classic R90 retro, the R12S. For me, it might just be one of the coolest-looking new bikes for 2025. But can the specs and performance live up to the looks? Well, in this blog post, we’ll go through all the details with absolutely everything you need to know.
Paying Tribute to the R90S
The general idea behind the R12S is to pay tribute to the iconic R90S of the 1970s. This is most apparent with the paint job, which is finished in what BMW calls Lava Orange Metallic. This color is a direct tribute to the Daytner Orange of the original R90S.
The tank and bodywork feature a beautiful fade to a bare brushed aluminum surface, further emphasizing the retro aesthetic.
This isn’t just a standard paint job available for the regular R129. You specifically have to pay for this S model to get it. For fans of the original R90S, this paint scheme is bound to be tempting. Additionally, there are nice little details like the red ‘S’ logo on the side panels, dual red pinstripes, and contrast stitching on the saddle.
Compared to the standard R129, the R12S also comes with a front fairing and a single-seat cowling, both of which are standard. While these are offered as accessories for the base bike, they really enhance the retro vibe, especially with the orange paint job that covers the entire bodywork, including the mudguards.
Mechanical and Aesthetic Enhancements
Another key difference between the R12S and the standard R129 is the addition of naturally anodized aluminum rims. These replace the black cast wheels found on the base model.
Although black spoke wheels and anodized aluminum wheels are available as options, they come at a steep price—over £2,000 for the anodized rims, while the black wheels are priced at £550. These premium touches enhance the heritage appeal and give the bike more of the R90S look.
Engine and Performance
A lot of the mechanical and technical aspects remain the same as the R129. The R12S features the same engine—a 1170cc Boxer twin that is air and oil cooled. While the engine design may appear slightly dated, it still delivers a respectable 109 horsepower and 150Nm of peak torque.
There is also a 95-horsepower A2 restrictable version listed on BMW’s website, though it’s unclear how many units will be sold in that configuration.
The chassis remains unchanged, featuring the same frame, adjustable upside-down fork, and monoshock. It also retains Brembo four-piston radial brake calipers up front.
Ergonomics and Design
Perhaps the biggest surprise is that BMW has kept the ergonomics the same as the standard R129. Unlike some retro-inspired bikes that feature clip-on bars, especially with a front fairing, the R12S sticks with the flat bars of the R12S.
It also retains the 795mm seat height and, presumably, the same footpeg positioning. This decision likely reflects the fact that retro bikes with clip-on bars don’t tend to sell well, and keeping the same bars may make it an easier build for BMW. Not to mention, the original R90S featured flat bars as well, so this choice could be considered a more accurate tribute.
High-Tech Features
One of the highlights of the R12S is the standard fit equipment. The bike comes with the Option 719 Billet Hardware pack, which includes rocker covers, bar-end mirrors, foot controls, levers, and more. The Comfort pack is also included, which adds tech like cruise control, hill start control, heated grips, a quick shifter, and an adaptive headlight Pro.
Additionally, the bike is equipped with an SOS emergency system that detects crashes or allows riders to hit a button on the bars to alert BMW’s call center with their location. This could potentially alert emergency services as well.
Pricing
With all these features, including the fairing, seat cowling, fancy wheels, and the stunning paint job, the R12S doesn’t come cheap. It’s priced at £18,400 before you add any extras, placing it at the top end of the retro market.
For many, this price might make it seem like a bike only the lucky few can afford. However, when you compare it to the price of a similarly equipped R12S, which can go over £20,000 with all the upgrades, the R12S starts to look like a bit of a bargain.
That said, the orange paint job seems to add some magic to the overall look. When configured with your own selection of parts, the bike may not look quite as striking. But overall, the R12S is a beautiful machine, and I’d love to know what you think. Is it too expensive, or is it truly a thing of beauty?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below, and check out my full review of the base R12S.
