If you’re the kind of rider who dreams of kicking up dust on a rugged trail but still wants a comfortable cruise on the open road, BMW Motorrad’s latest creation might just be your next two-wheeled obsession. Say hello to the BMW R 12 G/S – a modern tribute to the legendary R 80 G/S, the machine that set the standard for adventure bikes back in the ’80s.
Old soul, new tech
BMW has blended nostalgia with innovation, keeping the signature air/oil-cooled boxer engine that adventure purists love while packing in modern features for today’s riders. Under the tank, the 1 170cc twin-cylinder boxer churns out a healthy 80kW at 7 000r/min, with 115Nm of torque at 6 500r/min. In short? Plenty of grunt for tackling trails and tearing up tar alike.
But it’s not just about power. BMW has engineered the R 12 G/S to be a serious off-road contender. Long suspension travel, a high-mounted exhaust, and a lightweight one-piece steel frame make it more than just a pretty face. And for the hardcore dirt warriors, the optional Enduro Package Pro ups the ante with an 18-inch rear wheel (instead of the standard 17-inch), taller suspension, and extra off-road-friendly bits.
Ready to roll
Ergonomics are key when you’re spending long hours in the saddle, and BMW has that covered with three seat options. The stock flat solo seat makes standing on the pegs a breeze, while a two-up seat option lets you bring a pillion along for the ride. If you’re on the taller side or just want that extra bit of height for better control, the Rallye Seat raises the game – literally – with extra padding.
As expected from BMW Motorrad, rider tech is well thought out. The R 12 G/S comes with Rain, Road, and Enduro riding modes as standard, with an Enduro Pro mode available for those who like things a little more extreme. Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control (MSR) come included, offering extra stability when the going gets tough. If you hate fumbling with a clutch, the optional Shift Assistant Pro allows seamless gear changes for a smoother ride.
Designed to turn heads
Adventure bikes don’t need to be flashy, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look good. The R 12 G/S stays true to its roots with a stripped-back, minimalist aesthetic and a compact fairing. The large 21-inch front wheel is a nod to serious off-road intent, while BMW’s signature LED lighting adds a modern touch.
If you want even more personalisation, BMW offers three colour schemes – a classic black, a bold white with red seat accents, and the premium Option 719 Aragonit paint scheme for those who want something truly special.
The wait is on
With its perfect blend of heritage, capability, and cutting-edge tech, the BMW R 12 G/S is shaping up to be an adventure rider’s dream. Sadly, we’ll have to wait until late 2025 to get our hands on one in South Africa, but if you’ve got a taste for two-wheeled adventure, this one’s worth keeping on your radar.
