BMW launched the 2024 R 12 NineT in Sydney earlier this year, with the new model paying homage to the brand’s classic motorcycles. Inspired by the legendary R 90 S from the ’70s, among others, the beautiful looks of previous generations have been enhanced.
Combining the authentic and beefy character of the boxer engine and the design language of traditional motorcycle eras, the new model, tested here in an optioned up version of its base form, features a redesigned sculptured tank that allows for greater rider comfort.
It also offers improved aesthetic appeal and customisation options. Make no mistake though, it’s not all ravishing good looks, because this is a fun bike to ride too – despite its 220kg wet weight.
It feels surprisingly light and nimble when you get into the tight stuff and the 80kW motor offers substantial punch when you roll on hard. The exhaust has been re-designed to meet the strict European emissions standards, but fear not, all is not lost.
It still manages to come to life with that glorious familiar Boxer growl, avoiding sounding like it has had a large rag shoved down its throat. Three different riding modes are available, including Rain, Road and Dynamic, with all of them easily adjustable on the fly.
In a nice touch, you don’t have to be stationary to jump between them. To test out the R 12 nineT’s capabilities, we spent a day racking up close to 400km on the NSW Central Coast. Despite yours truly standing 185cm tall, it’s a surprisingly comfortable bike to ride.
The wide bars offer an impressive feel and allow you to “just think” about tipping into a corner. The bike will do the rest thanks to its phenomenal weight distribution. Due to the low seat (795mm) and ride height, we did find we were scraping the soles of our boots.
It happened a little too easily for our liking when cornering, but being so close to the road certainly enhances the perception of speed, and will keep you grinning. That also means it lends itself well to vertically challenged riders.
That should mean it’s not intimidating for female riders either. A fully adjustable, upside down, gold anodised 45mm front fork is of superb quality, looks sensational and offers outstanding feel and control over rough surface or when committing to sweeping bends.
It soaks up the corrugations with ease and keep the front firmly planted on the road. The rear suspension is also easily adjusted with a rotating knob just below the seat on the right side of the bike. Both front and rear setups offer 120mm of wheel travel.
Stopping power is handled by twin 310mm Brembo discs up front, combined with a single 265mm rear disc. The confidence you will have when throwing out the anchor is nothing short of perfection, with the brakes offering incredible feel.
They almost dare the rider to brake just a little later at the next opportunity. The rider assist functions on our test bike only serve to enhance that, with hill start control, cruise control, gearshift assist and nice heated grips (all part of the optional Comfort Package).
The 2024 BMW R 12 nineT has a USB charging socket, ABS and traction control included. Oh, and it also has tyre pressure sensors as well. As with nearly all of the German brand’s electronics, you barely notice them until you need them.
Nothing is more annoying than electronics that keep cutting in when you don’t want them to, and spoiling the fun, but BMW seem to have found that harmonious balance between safety and enjoyment.
It’s not perfect though, and despite having a keyless ride system, there’s no electronic steering or petrol tank lock – a feature other BMW bikes with this setup have. We have no idea why. The same can be said for the distinct lack of an actual fuel gauge.
The digital display, which is incorporated into the analogue gauges, provides fuel economy but doesn’t tell you how much fuel you actually have left. Once you hit reserve, you will see an image of a bowser and it will start to count up from zero kilometres.
It’s hands down one of the weirdest systems we’ve come across and after reaching out to BMW HQ, we’ve learned that once the counter starts to do its thing, there’s 4.0-litres left. That means you have between 65-85km to find a servo.
That aside, BMW offer a vast array of accessories to personalise your bike, including paint schemes, luggage, seat cowlings, and gauge options. Should you be keen on one, it comes in three variants, including the self-named offering, the HL, and an Option 719.
Two colours are available across the range, including Blackstorm Metallic and San Remo Green Metallic, with Option 719 Aluminium exclusive to its variant. Pricing starts from $23,990, and tops out at $30,590 – both ride away – across the three offerings.
Our test bike, fitted with that Comfort Package, Option 719 classic wheels, and headlight pro, hits the road at $29,951 ride away. The 2024 BMW R 12 nineT comes with an unprecedented 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 5-years roadside assist.
If you’re looking for a bike to go on long distance adventures or overnight rides, this might not be the best option, but if you want something that’s sporty and fun, is wrapped up in some serious good looks, and will stand out in the Café scene, this might be your unicorn.
You can find out more by visiting the BMW Motorrad Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by BMW Motorrad Australia for independent review purposes.
