BMW Updates R12 nineT, Introduces new R12 Cruiser

[advrider]

Did you think the days of the classic air/oil-cooled flat twin were done? That BMW was moving its entire lineup to liquid cooling? Well, that’s what we figured was happening, but it isn’t the case. The R12 nineT is back for 2024 with some updates, and there’s also a smaller-bore cruiser that’s simply known as the R12.

2024 BMW R12. Photo: BMW

2024 BMW R12 nineT. Photo: BMW

Both bikes run the same basic engine, a familiar 1170 cc air/oil-cooled boxer. However, the R12 nineT is tuned hotter, with 109 hp at 7000 rpm and 85 lb-ft of torque at 6500 rpm. The cruiser version only makes 95 hp at 6500 rpm and 81 lb-ft of torque at 6000 rpm. Both bikes have a six-speed gearbox with shaft final drive, a set of dual mufflers on the left-hand side, and your choice of riding modes. The R12 nineT comes with Rain, Road and Dynamic riding modes, while the R12 comes with only two modes, called Rock and Roll respectively.

Other electro-trickery includes BMW’s proprietary Dynamic Traction Control and Engine Drag Torque control systems as standard, and ABS Pro (aka “cornering ABS”). Keyless ignition is standard, and a TFT screen is optional. A USB-C and 12-volt socket come standard, for charging your devices. LED lights are standard, but BMW says a Headlight Pro (aka, “cornering headlight”) can be added as an option.

The R12 nineT comes with sportier chassis than the cruiser version, and a bit more power. Photo: BMW

Both bikes get a new trellis frame with bolt-on rear subframe, but the frames are slightly different in their dimension. The R12 nineT is more performance-oriented, with 4.4 inches of trail and a 27.7-degree rake. The R12 has 5.2 inches of trail and a 29.3-degree rake. This theme continues with the wheels; the roadster gets 17-inch wheels front and rear, while the cruiser gets a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear. Both bikes have a USD front end and Paralever swingarm setup, with full adjustability, but the R12 nineT has 4.7 inches of travel in back, while the R12 has 3.5 inches of travel in back. That means a 31.1-inch seat height and 29.7-inch seat height respectively.

These machines both come with four-piston monobloc calipers up front, with steel brake lines and floating 310 mm discs.

The cruiser comes with a 19-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear. Photo: 2024 BMW R12 nineT. Photo: BMW

Just as before, these bikes are built for customization, which you can do with BMW’s own in-house accessories. Each model comes in your choice of three paint colors. Expect pricing and availability in early 2024, says BMW. And will there be an ADV-style version of the bike, like there was with the old RnineT models? Maybe we’ll see one next year?

 

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