2026 BMW R 12 S Specs & Review

BMW’s R 12 S blends classic boxer charm with thoroughly modern hardware. It’s a retro-modern roadster aimed at riders who want character, high-spec components, and everyday usability. If you’ve been hunting for 2026 BMW R 12 S specs, this BMW R 12 S review breaks down the numbers and how they feel on the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: Air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
• Displacement: 1,170 cc
• Power: 109 hp at 7,000 rpm (80 kW)
• Torque: 115 Nm at 6,500 rpm (85 lb-ft)
• Transmission / final drive: 6-speed, shaft (cardan)
• Wet weight: 220 kg (road ready)
• BMW R 12 S seat height: 795 mm / 31.3 in

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the R 12 S is BMW’s air/oil-cooled 1,170 cc boxer twin, a layout prized for its character and low-slung feel. The big-bore, short-stroke dimensions (101.0 x 73.0 mm) and a 12.0:1 compression ratio help it deliver 109 hp at 7,000 rpm and 115 Nm at 6,500 rpm. In real terms, that translates to strong midrange punch for quick passes and an engaging surge out of corners without needing to chase the redline.

Throttle response is managed by BMW’s BMS-O throttle-by-wire, with three riding modes—Rain, Road, and Dynamic—so you can tailor delivery for conditions and mood. DTC Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Engine Brake Control add a safety net when the pace picks up or surfaces get sketchy. The gearbox is a 6-speed constant-mesh unit, aided by Shift Assistant Pro for rapid, fuss-reducing shifts. Primary and secondary ratios (1.737 and 2.910) support responsive gearing without sacrificing highway composure. A shaft (cardan) final drive underlines the R 12 S’s clean, low-maintenance ethos.

If you enjoy stretching its legs, the bike is rated for a top speed of 215 km/h. It meets EU5+ emissions and is tuned to run on super unleaded 95 RON (E15 max).

Handling, Comfort & BMW R 12 S Seat Height

Chassis poise comes from a steel trellis tubular space frame and a high-spec suspension package. Up front, a 45 mm USD fork offers adjustable compression, rebound, and spring preload with 120 mm of travel. Out back, BMW’s cast aluminum single-sided swingarm with Paralever pairs to a central progressive shock (rebound and preload adjustable), also with 120 mm of travel. The 1511 mm wheelbase, 27.7° rake, and 110.7 mm trail emphasize stability at speed while preserving precise steering on back roads.

The BMW R 12 S seat height is 795 mm / 31.3 in, which will be approachable for many riders and encourages confidence during stops and low-speed maneuvers. The BMW R 12 S weight comes in at 220 kg (road ready). While not ultralight, the balanced geometry and compliant suspension help it feel planted rather than ponderous. The single-seat layout keeps the riding area focused on the pilot, and overall dimensions—2130 mm length, 870 mm width, 1070 mm height (without mirrors)—fit the bike’s athletic, compact stance.

Equipment & Features

Braking hardware is trackday-worthy for a retro-modern machine: twin 310 mm floating front discs with 4-piston monobloc radial calipers, plus a 265 mm rear disc with a 2-piston floating caliper. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro (partial integral) adds confidence when braking upright or leaned over.

Electronics are comprehensive:

• DTC Dynamic Traction Control
• Dynamic Engine Brake Control
• Hill Start Control
• Shift Assistant Pro
• Cruise Control
• Heated Grips
• Keyless Ride
• Intelligent Emergency Call
• ConnectedRide Control
• Tire Pressure Control (optional)

Lighting is full LED with Headlight Pro adaptive cornering light. Instrumentation blends old and new with twin analog gauges and an optional 3.5 in micro-TFT digital display. Rolling stock can be outfitted with aluminum spoked wheels (Option 719 Classic II), sized 3.50 x 17 up front and 5.50 x 17 at the rear, wearing 120/70 ZR17 and 180/55 ZR17 tires. The aluminum fuel tank holds 16 L / 4.2 US gal, and the 2026 color palette includes Lava Orange Metallic.

Who Is the 2026 BMW R 12 S For?

The R 12 S is tailored for riders who crave a distinctive twin with modern safety tech—enthusiasts who enjoy spirited road riding, weekend twisties, and stylish commuting. With its electronics suite, ABS Pro, and stable chassis, it’s friendly to returning riders, but the 109 hp output and 220 kg wet weight make it better suited to those with some experience rather than absolute beginners. Comfort features like heated grips, Cruise Control, and Keyless Ride support daily use without dulling its sporty edge.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 BMW R 12 S brings together a charismatic boxer engine, robust braking with Integral ABS Pro, and a deep electronics package in a clean, retro-modern wrapper. Highlights include its tractable torque, high-spec suspension adjustability, LED Headlight Pro, and low-fuss shaft drive. The optional spoked wheels and analog-plus-micro-TFT cockpit reinforce the blend of heritage and tech.

Trade-offs? The single-seat configuration limits two-up flexibility out of the box, and the BMW R 12 S weight of 220 kg won’t appeal to ultralight purists. Still, for riders who value feel, stability, and features over spec-sheet featherweight claims, the R 12 S lands as a compelling, premium choice. MSRP (US) is $22,140 plus destination.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 BMW R 12 S good for beginners?

  • It’s manageable thanks to Rain/Road/Dynamic modes, ABS Pro, and traction control, but with 109 hp and a 220 kg wet weight, it’s better for riders with some experience.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 BMW R 12 S?

  • The BMW R 12 S seat height is 795 mm / 31.3 in.

• How heavy is the 2026 BMW R 12 S?

  • The BMW R 12 S weight is 220 kg (road ready).

• What electronics and rider aids does it have?

  • DTC, Dynamic Engine Brake Control, Hill Start Control, Shift Assistant Pro, Cruise Control, Heated Grips, Keyless Ride, Intelligent Emergency Call, ConnectedRide Control, and optional Tire Pressure Control.

• How much does the 2026 BMW R 12 S cost?

  • MSRP (US) is $22,140 plus destination.