A stylish retro G/S model joins the R 12 line-up

BMW Motorrad’s R 12 line-up expands with the Dakar special that reminds of the original R 80 G/S. It is, of course, the R 12 G/S. 

In 1980 BMW Motorrad produced an enduro bike with a boxer engine, dubbed R 80 G/S. Now, 45 years on, there’s a new version, the BMW R 12 G/S, featuring long suspension travel, cross-spoke wire wheels, and a small, compact fairing. It uses the R 12 running gear.

The R 12 G/S comes with a flat solo seat as standard (860mm height), optimised for sitting (road) or standing (offroad work). The basic version of the new BMW R 12 G/S also gets serrated footrests for enhanced boot grip. 

Its air/oil-cooled 1170cc boxer twin delivers 80kW and 115Nm. The G/S features a two-into-one left-sided exhaust system with a high-mount silencer. Another design feature to reduce the chances of damage during off-road riding is the use of shaft drive.

Three ride modes comprise “Rain”, “Road” and “Enduro”. There’s also an Enduro Pro mode if you want to get spendier. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque (MSR) control are standard. TC is switchable for off-road riding. A quickshifter is optional. 

Up front, a 21-inch wheel is standard for optimum off-road performance, while a 17-inch wheel is fitted at the rear, an 18-inch unit optional. Fully adjustable USD forks support the front end (210mm of travel) and a Paralever set-up is at the rear, also fully adjustable. It has 200mm of travel.

Twin discs up front and cornering ABS are standard.

Other items include a round display, and similarly round LED headlight. Locally, the R 12 G/S kicks off at $35,990.