2026 BMW R 12 Specs & Review

BMW’s R 12 brings the air/oil-cooled boxer back to the cruiser scene with clean style, modern safety tech, and a relaxed yet engaging ride. If you want classic looks with authentic torque and a low, approachable stance, the 2026 BMW R 12 delivers. This BMW R 12 review dives into the 2026 BMW R 12 specs to help you decide if it fits your garage.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 1,170 cc
• Engine type: Air/oil-cooled 2-cylinder boxer, DOHC, 4 valves/cyl
• Power: 95 hp @ 6,500 rpm
• Torque: 110 Nm / 81 lb-ft @ 6,000 rpm
• Wet weight: 227 kg / 500 lb
• Seat height: 754 mm / 29.7 in

Engine & Performance

The 1,170 cc boxer is the star here: a torquey, character-rich twin with 95 hp at 6,500 rpm and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm. That broad midrange makes real-world riding feel effortless—roll on from low rpm in city traffic or surf the torque on backroads without needing constant downshifts. BMW quotes 0–100 km/h in 3.9 s and a top speed of over 200 km/h, so there’s plenty of punch when the road opens up.

A 6-speed transmission drives a shaft final, pairing mechanical solidity with low day-to-day upkeep. BMW lists a primary ratio of 1.737 and a final drive ratio of 2.910, with well-spaced gear ratios (I–VI: 2.375 / 1.696 / 1.296 / 1.065 / 0.939 / 0.848) that suit both urban and highway use. Dynamic Engine Brake Control helps keep the chassis settled during aggressive deceleration, and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) adds a welcome safety net when grip is variable.

For fuel stops, the R 12 carries a 14 L (3.7 US gal) tank and posts a WMTC fuel consumption of 5.1 L/100 km, which is commendably frugal for a big twin. CO2 emissions are listed at 119 g/km (WMTC).

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 12 Seat Height

The BMW R 12 balances cruiser calm with sure-footed manners. A 45 mm USD fork with 90 mm of travel and a Paralever swingarm with a WAD shock (preload and rebound adjustable, 90 mm travel) keep the ride composed. Geometry leans toward stability—1,520 mm wheelbase, 132.5 mm trail, and a 60.7° steering head angle—yet the bike doesn’t feel unwieldy thanks to its low center of gravity.

The BMW R 12 seat height is 754 mm (29.7 in), which, combined with the narrow midsection, helps riders plant their feet easily at stops. The BMW R 12 weight comes in at 227 kg (500 lb, DIN road-ready). At walking pace, that mass is noticeable, but the low seat and boxer layout aid balance and confidence—good news for shorter riders. Taller riders will appreciate the relaxed cockpit and roomy triangle typical of BMW’s boxer-based roadsters.

The cast aluminum wheels (2.75 x 19 in front, 4.00 x 16 in rear) wear a 100/90-19 front and 150/80-16 rear tire, underscoring the classic stance while keeping steering predictable.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious: up front, dual 310 mm floating discs with 4-piston monobloc fixed calipers; out back, a 265 mm disc with a 2-piston floating caliper. BMW Motorrad ABS Pro (lean-angle sensitive) is standard, enhancing confidence on twisty roads and in the wet. Electronics include DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Dynamic Engine Brake Control, and two riding modes—Roll and Rock—to tailor response. Lighting is full LED, and Keyless Ride comes standard.

The clutch is a single-plate dry unit with hydraulic actuation, and the transmission is a 6-speed with shaft drive. The steel tubular space frame uses the engine as a stressed member and carries a bolted rear subframe. Wheels are cast aluminum. Practical touches include the 14 L fuel tank and standard LED visibility. For 2026, colors include Black Storm Metallic, Gravity Blue Metallic (optional), and Option 719 Meteoric Dust 2 Metallic (optional). US MSRP (2026) is $13,145 + destination.

Who Is the 2026 BMW R 12 For?

Riders who want authentic boxer character in a low, classic cruiser will feel right at home. The approachable seat height and friendly torque curve make it an easy daily partner, while the electronics suite adds year-round confidence. Newer riders with proper training could grow into it, but its 95 hp and 227 kg wet weight still reward experience. Weekend backroad fans and urban stylists alike will appreciate its blend of tradition and tech.

Torquepedia Verdict

The R 12 nails the modern classic brief: charismatic engine, planted chassis, and useful rider aids like ABS Pro and DTC. It’s quick enough (3.9 s to 100 km/h, >200 km/h top end) to keep enthusiasts entertained, yet comfortable and efficient enough (5.1 L/100 km WMTC) for everyday use.

Trade-offs? Suspension travel is on the shorter side at 90 mm front and rear, and the 14 L tank won’t suit iron-butt distances. Still, judged as a stylish, torque-rich cruiser with real engineering substance, the R 12 is a compelling pick—especially if you value BMW’s shaft-drive solidity and boxer heritage.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 BMW R 12 good for beginners? It can be, with training; note its 95 hp and 227 kg (500 lb) wet weight.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 BMW R 12? The BMW R 12 seat height is 754 mm (29.7 in).

• How heavy is the 2026 BMW R 12? The BMW R 12 weight is 227 kg (500 lb, DIN road-ready).

• What is the top speed and acceleration? BMW lists a top speed of over 200 km/h and 0–100 km/h in 3.9 s.

• What riding modes and safety aids does it have? Riding modes Roll and Rock, BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, DTC, and Dynamic Engine Brake Control.