| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | BMW R 12 |
| Engine size | Above 1000cc |
| Power | 95 hp |
| Torque | 110 Nm |
| Cylinder / Valve | Double Cylinder, 8 valves |
| Weight | 227 kg (500 lb) |
| Front Brake | Twin disc brake, floating brake discs, diameter 310 mm, 4-piston Monobloc radial brake caliper |
| Rear Brake | Single disc brake, diameter 265 mm, 2-piston floating caliper |
| Seat Height | 75 cm (29.5 in) |
| Front Tyre | 100/90 R19 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/80 R16 |
| Cooling | Air Cooled |
| Front Suspension | Upside-down telescopic fork, diameter 45 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with Paralever brace, central progressive spring strut, spring pre-load adjustable, rebound damping adjustable |
| Motorcycle Type | Chopper / Cruiser |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h (130 mph) |
| Fuel Capacity | 14 L (3.7 US gal) |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.7 L/100 km (41.3 mpg US) |
| Prevalence of Service Network | |
| Service Quality | |
| Spare Parts Availability | |
| Price | $12,345 |
| For Other Motorcycle Price Lists | Click for BMW Price List |
Spec-based reading of the BMW R 12 as a Chopper / Cruiser: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.
Pros
- Approachable seat height (~750 mm / 29.5 in)
Cons
- Heavy curb weight (~227 kg / 500 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care
Who is it for?
Best suited for shorter or mid-height riders, riders who prefer relaxed cruiser ergonomics.
Who is it not for?
Less ideal for brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.
Commuting / city use
As a cruiser, relaxed ergonomics suit low-stress riding; tight traffic may need more room.
Highway / longer rides
Highway cruising comfort is typically stronger than sharp sport handling.
Good for beginners?
Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 12 a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.
Seat height & rider fit
Seat height is about 750 mm (29.5 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.
Fuel economy & range
Listed fuel use is about 5.7 L/100 km (~41.3 mpg US). With a ~14 L tank, theoretical range is around 246 km (real-world range varies).
Two-up riding
Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.
Frequently asked questions
What is the top speed of the BMW R 12?
Our specification data lists 210 km/h (130 mph) for the BMW R 12.
How much horsepower does the BMW R 12 have?
Listed power is 95 hp.
How much torque does the BMW R 12 have?
Listed torque is 110 Nm.
What is the engine size of the BMW R 12?
Engine displacement is listed as above 1000 cc.
How much does the BMW R 12 weigh?
Curb weight is listed at about 227 kg (500 lb).
What is the seat height of the BMW R 12?
Seat height is about 750 mm (29.5 in).
What is the fuel economy of the BMW R 12?
Listed consumption is about 5.7 L/100 km (about 41.3 mpg US).
What is the fuel range of the BMW R 12?
Theoretical range is around 246 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.
Is the BMW R 12 liquid cooled?
It is listed as air-cooled.
How many cylinders does the BMW R 12 have?
It is listed as a 2-cylinder engine.
Is the BMW R 12 good for beginners?
Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 12 a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.
Is the BMW R 12 good for commuting?
The BMW R 12 can be used for commuting, although its size, weight and riding position should be considered for frequent urban use.
Is the BMW R 12 good for highway riding?
With a listed top speed of 210 km/h, the BMW R 12 has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.
Is the BMW R 12 suitable for short riders?
Seat height is about 750 mm (29.5 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.
Is the BMW R 12 A2 licence friendly?
A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.
What are the pros of the BMW R 12?
Approachable seat height (~750 mm / 29.5 in).
What are the cons of the BMW R 12?
Heavy curb weight (~227 kg / 500 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care.
