2024 BMW R 12 vs 2024 BMW R 18

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Scores, summary & seat (optional) Estimates and auto text from specs — open if you want them.

Technical score (estimate)

Weighted mix of power, torque, power-to-weight, top speed and lighter weight within this comparison only. Not a real-world verdict — riding style and roads matter.

Top on paper
2024 BMW R 12
78 pts
2024 BMW R 18
22 pts

Usage fit (estimate)

Rough scores for city riding, touring, sporty riding and new riders — mix of specs and bike category. Same caveats as the technical score: traffic, skill and tyres matter.

City / commute

2024 BMW R 12
42.7 pts
Best fit here
2024 BMW R 18
68.7 pts

Touring / long rides

Best fit here
2024 BMW R 12
58.8 pts
2024 BMW R 18
57.8 pts

Sporty riding

Best fit here
2024 BMW R 12
69.6 pts
2024 BMW R 18
23.1 pts

New rider friendly

2024 BMW R 12
40.8 pts
Best fit here
2024 BMW R 18
63.4 pts

Seat height (cm)

Figures are as in the database; boots, suspension sag and road surface change how tall the bike feels.

  • 2024 BMW R 12 75 cm Tallest seat here
  • 2024 BMW R 18 69 cm Lowest seat here

Spread in this comparison: about 6 cm.

Rough guide: comfortable flat-foot reach often needs inseam roughly in the same ballpark as seat height (varies a lot by ergonomics).

Auto summary from specs

Generated from the numbers in the comparison — not a review.

  • Power spans 91 hp (2024 BMW R 18) up to 95 hp (2024 BMW R 12).
  • Torque spans 110 Nm (2024 BMW R 12) up to 158 Nm (2024 BMW R 18).
  • Weight spans 227 kg (2024 BMW R 12) to 345 kg (2024 BMW R 18).
  • Engine sizes are very close.
Specification BMW R 12 BMW R 18
Brand BMW BMW
Model BMW R 12 BMW R 18
Engine size Above 1000cc Above 1000cc
Power 95hp 91hp
Torque 110nm. 158nm.
Cylinders / valves Twin cylinder, 8 valves Twin cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 227kg 345kg
Front brake Twin disc brake, floating brake discs, diameter 310 mm, 4-piston Monobloc radial brake caliper Twin disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed calipers
Rear brake Single disc brake, diameter 265 mm, 2-piston floating caliper Single disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed caliper
Seat height (cm) 75cm 69cm
Front tyre 100/90 R19 120/70 R 19
Rear tyre 150/80 R16 180/65 B16
Cooling Air cooled Air cooled
Front suspension Upside-down telescopic fork, diameter 45 mm Telescopic fork
Rear suspension Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with Paralever brace, central progressive spring strut, spring pre-load adjustable, rebound damping adjustable Steel swingarm with central shock strut
Motorcycle type Chopper – Cruiser Chopper – Cruiser
Top speed 210km/h 180km/h
Fuel capacity / consumption 14 L – 5.7 L/100km 16 L – 5.6 L/100km
Service network
Service quality
Parts availability
Price $12345 $14995
Brand price lists View BMW price list View BMW price list
Extra features

-BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, Cast Aluminium Wheels, LED Headlight, taillight, indicators & Daytime riding lights

-Riding mode – Rock & Roll, Keyless Ride, 12v power socket & USB charging socket

-Upside down front fork, Dynamic Traction Control

Engine Size : 1800CC

ABS : BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral)

Features

  1. ASC (Automatic Stability Control)
  2. Full LED headlight
  3. Keyless Ride
  4. LED rear and brake light included in rear indicators
  5. Speedometer with multifunction display (on-board computer)
  6. 3 riding modes (Rock, Roll, Rain)

Opinions

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2024 BMW R 12 vs 2024 BMW R 18: Which One is Better for You?

2024 BMW R 12 and 2024 BMW R 18 are very similar in terms of engine capacity and power. In this case, design, driving comfort, and personal preferences may take precedence. Additionally, 2024 BMW R 12, with its 95hp, stands out for users seeking speed and performance.

1. Cylinder Capacity and Performance

2024 BMW R 12 and 2024 BMW R 18 have almost identical engine capacities, offering similar performance. In this case, design, driving comfort, and other features will play a more significant role in your choice.Both models have an engine capacity of 1100cc. Designed for performance-focused users and professionals.

2. Torque Power

2024 BMW R 18, with its 158Nm torque, delivers powerful performance. A high torque value ensures superior acceleration and advantage on steep inclines. 2024 BMW R 12, with its 110Nm torque, offers a more balanced ride for city use. 2024 BMW R 18 is ideal for users requiring rapid acceleration. High torque power offers significant advantages in heavy load carrying, off-road driving, or situations requiring high speed.

3. Top Speed

2024 BMW R 12, as a Chopper – Cruiser, can reach a maximum speed of 210 km/h. This speed feature can be considered an extra advantage for a motorcycle of this type. 2024 BMW R 18, as a Chopper – Cruiser, offers a lower maximum speed of 180 km/h, but this does not overshadow its other features.

4. Cooling System

2024 BMW R 12 features a Air-Cooled system, while 2024 BMW R 18 offers a Air-Cooled system. Both models deliver equal performance in their cooling systems.

5. Design and Comfort

2024 BMW R 12, with its lighter build, offers greater practicality and easier maneuverability for city use. 2024 BMW R 18, on the other hand, provides a more stable ride at high speeds and on long journeys due to its heavier build. Additionally, 2024 BMW R 12, with a seat height of 75cm, is more suitable for taller riders, offering greater comfort.2024 BMW R 18, with a seat height of 69cm, provides a more ergonomic ride for average-height riders.

Conclusion

2024 BMW R 18 emerges as the winner of this comparison based on total points. 2024 BMW R 12 and 2024 BMW R 18 have nearly identical engine capacities. 2024 BMW R 18, with higher torque, excels in rapid acceleration and steep climbs. 2024 BMW R 12, with a top speed of 210 km/h, stands out for speed enthusiasts. Both models have similar cooling systems, offering comparable performance for long journeys. In conclusion, 2024 BMW R 18 stands out in terms of technical specifications and overall performance. However, depending on your riding preferences and usage needs, both models offer unique advantages.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of BMW R 12 vs BMW R 18?

BMW R 12 is listed at 210 km/h vs 180 km/h for BMW R 18.

Which has more horsepower, BMW R 12 or BMW R 18?

BMW R 12 has 95 hp compared with 91 hp on the BMW R 18.

Which is better, BMW R 12 or BMW R 18?

It depends on your riding style. Compare top speed, weight, fuel use and price in the table on this page, then vote for the bike you prefer.