BMW R12 S: A Modern Homage to the Iconic R90 S

BMW has long been a prominent name in the motorcycle world, with a legacy spanning over a century of innovation and iconic designs. Among its most celebrated motorcycles is the 1974 R 90 S, a machine that stands as a benchmark in BMW’s history. Not only did it revolutionize the brand’s fortunes, but it also played a crucial role in defining modern racing motorcycles and sport-touring bikes. Now, BMW has introduced the R 12 S, a tribute to the legendary R 90 S, blending classic design elements with modern engineering to create a new motorcycle that pays homage to its predecessor while bringing the brand into the future.

The 1974 BMW R 90 S marked a pivotal moment for the German manufacturer. Its sleek styling, combined with cutting-edge performance features, helped define BMW’s motorcycles as high-performance machines with style. The bike featured a bikini-style fairing, triple disc brakes, a slim profile, and sporting suspension—all contributing to its fast, responsive handling. Designed by Hans Müth, who also worked on the famous Suzuki Katana, the R 90 S was based on the race-winning motorcycle ridden by Steve McLaughlin at the Daytona 200, a feat that was followed by Reg Pridmore’s victory as the first AMA Superbike Champion on the same bike. The R 90 S further solidified its status with a class win at the prestigious Isle of Man TT, a race renowned for its difficulty and danger.

At the time, the R 90 S was a game-changer in both aesthetics and performance. Its design broke away from BMW’s traditional style, creating a machine that was not only fast and agile but also strikingly beautiful. Its success on the racetrack translated directly to showroom sales, with many crediting the R 90 S with saving BMW’s motorcycle division from possible closure. It is also widely regarded as one of the first sport-touring motorcycles due to its availability with quick-release hard panniers from the factory. Even decades later, the R 90 S remains a sought-after collector’s item, and its distinct shape is still revered by motorcycle enthusiasts.

BMW’s R 12 S is a modern tribute to this iconic bike. Drawing from the past, it maintains the familiar air-cooled boxer twin engine that made the R 90 S so distinctive. However, the new R 12 S has evolved in every way to meet modern demands, delivering an impressive 109 horsepower compared to the 67 horsepower of the original. The R 12 S features BMW’s cutting-edge 1,170cc boxer twin engine, which offers a significant power upgrade while maintaining the classic characteristics of the earlier models. The air-cooled design, an element that made the R 90 S so unique, has been retained, keeping the spirit of the original alive.

The design of the R 12 S incorporates several key features that echo the R 90 S, most notably in the bike’s appearance. The R 12 S comes equipped with a more stylized bikini fairing, reflecting the streamlined look that made the original R 90 S so memorable. The bump-stop solo seat adds to the bike’s aggressive and sleek profile, while the wire-spoke wheels allow the use of modern tubeless tires, combining vintage appeal with contemporary functionality. The “lava orange metallic” paint job with silver panels is an unmistakable nod to the “burnt orange and silver” fade paint scheme that made the original R 90 S stand out. Additionally, the robust “R” badge on the engine serves as a tribute to the red “R” badge that adorned the original model.

Inside the cockpit, BMW has blended the old with the new. The R 12 S features dual analog-style clocks for speedometer and tachometer, maintaining the classic look, but with the added functionality of small digital screens. These digital screens display important modern metrics, such as ride modes, trip meters, and more, ensuring that the rider has access to the information needed to navigate both city streets and the open road. This combination of traditional design with digital technology makes the R 12 S a truly modern machine, while still respecting its heritage.

In keeping with BMW’s reputation for offering a premium experience, the R 12 S comes with a wide range of features as standard. Riders can enjoy heated grips for those chilly rides, and the six-speed gearbox ensures smooth and precise shifting. The bike also delivers 85 pound-feet of torque, making it highly responsive in any gear. A shaft drive system adds to the bike’s smoothness and reliability, while modern amenities such as ABS braking, digital fuel injection, and ride-by-wire throttle enhance the overall riding experience. The twin exhaust pipes on the left side of the bike provide a sleek and modern look, departing from the original R 90 S’s dual pipes on either side.

Weighing in at 485 pounds, the R 12 S is a manageable machine that combines power with a lightweight frame, making it agile and fun to ride. Despite its modern upgrades, the bike maintains a sense of nostalgia with its design and features, allowing riders to experience the thrill of the classic R 90 S in a more advanced, contemporary form. BMW’s attention to detail and respect for the past are evident in every aspect of the R 12 S, from its styling to its performance.

The base MSRP of the R 12 S is $21,590, with additional costs for accessories and standard fees. For those who wish to take the spirit of sport-touring even further, BMW will offer soft luggage designed specifically for the R 12 S, ensuring that riders can pack up and embark on long journeys while maintaining the bike’s sleek and functional design. As of now, BMW has not specified a delivery date for the R 12 S, but given the excitement surrounding its release, it’s clear that this new model will continue the legacy of the iconic R 90 S.

In summary, the BMW R 12 S is a fitting tribute to one of the most beloved motorcycles in the brand’s history. With its blend of modern performance and classic styling, it offers a glimpse into the past while pushing BMW’s motorcycle division into the future. Whether you’re a collector or a rider looking for a high-performance machine with a rich history, the R 12 S is sure to be a motorcycle that lives up to the legacy of the R 90 S.