BMW R 12 nineT – A Modern Classic with Timeless Appeal
Engine and Performance
At the core of the BMW R 12 nineT is its powerful and smooth 1,170cc air-and-oil-cooled, flat-twin "boxer" engine. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this engine special:
- Power Output: With a peak output of around 109 horsepower and a torque of 85 lb-ft, this engine delivers enough force to satisfy both city riders and those who crave longer rides on open highways.
- Fuel Injection & Emission Standards: The bike’s engine now complies with Euro 5 standards, thanks to refined fuel injection and an advanced exhaust system, making it an eco-friendly yet thrilling ride.
- Transmission: Mated to a six-speed transmission, the R 12 nineT ensures smooth shifts, optimizing performance and enhancing the riding experience across all types of terrain.
This engine retains the boxer’s distinctive rumble, giving the rider that nostalgic sound and feel while taking advantage of modern performance tuning.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetics
BMW has designed the R 12 nineT with an emphasis on simplicity and elegance. The visual cues are a nod to the brand’s early motorcycles, yet the overall design remains distinctly modern.
- Minimalist Approach: The design is clean, with fewer covers and exposed components, allowing the bike's form to shine.
- Fuel Tank: The classic tear-drop-shaped fuel tank has been sculpted with precision, contributing to the bike's timeless look.
- Round LED Headlamp: BMW has incorporated a round LED headlamp, a nod to vintage bikes, but enhanced it with modern, high-performance lighting technology.
- Customization Options: The modular structure of the bike makes it a blank canvas for custom builds, allowing owners to swap out parts like the seat, fenders, and mirrors easily.
The R 12 nineT is available in multiple color schemes, from traditional black with metallic accents to more vibrant options that give the motorcycle a personal touch.
Ride Quality
With the R 12 nineT, BMW has prioritized a smooth, balanced ride that can handle the city and open road equally well.
- Telescopic Forks in the Front: The bike uses traditional telescopic forks in the front for a classic appearance, but they’re tuned to handle various road conditions with ease.
- Paralever Suspension in the Rear: BMW’s Paralever rear suspension provides a firm yet comfortable ride, even over rough terrain. It ensures stability and reduces strain on the rider over long distances.
- Adjustability: The suspension is semi-adjustable, allowing riders to tweak it to fit their preference and riding style.
Overall, the suspension setup offers a blend of comfort and performance, making the R 12 nineT ideal for city commutes, weekend cruises, and spirited rides through twisty roads.
Modern Features
Though the R 12 nineT is built with a retro aesthetic, it’s equipped with modern tech to enhance safety and convenience:
- Riding Modes: The R 12 nineT comes with multiple riding modes such
as Rain, Road, and Dynamic, adapting the throttle response and traction control settings to different conditions. - ABS Pro: An advanced ABS system, designed specifically for cornering, provides extra safety in tight bends, allowing for more confident braking without compromising stability.
- Dynamic Traction Control (DTC): The DTC system ensures that power delivery remains smooth and controlled, especially during acceleration on slippery surfaces.
- LCD Instrument Cluster: The bike sports a compact yet informative LCD display that provides essential data, including speed, revs, fuel level, and trip info.
The R 12 nineT’s electronics package doesn’t compromise on the rider’s connection with the road but enhances it by adding a layer of reassurance.
Ergonomics and Comfort
BMW has given considerable attention to ergonomics, ensuring that the R 12 nineT appeals to a broad range of riders:
- Seat Height and Positioning: The seat height is comfortable, with a neutral riding posture that suits riders of varying heights. The slightly forward stance encourages control without compromising comfort.
- Seat Options: The R 12 nineT offers different seat options to cater to single or two-up riding styles, enhancing versatility.
- Foot Pegs: The foot peg positioning is ideal for long journeys and short rides alike, striking a balance between a sporty and relaxed feel.
Whether you’re riding through the city streets or cruising along a coastal highway, the bike’s ergonomics ensure a relaxed and engaging ride.
Safety Features
BMW has integrated several safety features to ensure that riders feel secure on the R 12 nineT:
- Automatic Stability Control (ASC): This feature prevents rear-wheel slip by controlling power delivery, giving the rider better traction control.
- Hill Start Control: For riders navigating hilly terrains, this feature prevents the bike from rolling backward when starting on an incline.
- Daytime Running Lights: The running lights are highly visible, helping other drivers see the bike during the day.
These features give peace of mind to the rider and contribute to a safer overall riding experience.
Pricing and Availability
With a price tag that sits around the premium mark, the BMW R 12 nineT is aimed at riders who value heritage and quality craftsmanship. While it may be a significant investment, it represents a blend of history and innovation that’s unique to BMW Motorrad. Additionally, BMW offers customization packages that can vary the cost based on selected options.
Verdict
Whether you’re a BMW enthusiast or simply someone who values beautifully engineered machines, the R 12 nineT promises a ride filled with joy, precision, and timeless style. It’s a bike that looks as good parked at the café as it feels carving through mountain roads, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on the motorcycling world.
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