BMW R12S: Retro Looks, Modern Punch – But Does it Justify the Aussie Price Tag?

The BMW Heritage lineup are all head-turners, no doubt, but the R12S… well, it just a little bit special. Straight out of the 70s playbook, it channels the legendary R90S with a vibe that’s undeniably cool. A striking lava orange paint job with red pinstripes, the twin clocks, the gorgeous fairing, and those silver spoked wheels – yes, it’s a stunner. Even the single seat screams retro perfection.  It all comes together to create a truly exclusive feel. Looks-wise, BMW has absolutely knocked it out of the park.

Looks are one thing, but motorcycles are meant to be ridden so what’s it like when you twist the throttle. The R12S isn't about chasing headline-grabbing horsepower figures; it's all about that raw, visceral torque that the 1170cc boxer twin delivers in spades. Instead of a gradual build-up, the engine delivers strong, immediate torque from very low in the rev range. It's a deeply satisfying sensation, a surge that throws you back in the seat and paints a massive grin across your face.

Whether you're pulling away from a standstill, effortlessly overtaking on the highway, or barrelling out of tight corner, that torque of the R12S is your constant companion. It’s a feeling of confidence and effortless control.

And oh, that boxer grunt! It's a characteristic that defines the ride, it's a sensation that is both unique and utterly addictive. From the moment you start it up, you feel that distinctive sideways shift, a subtle but ever-present reminder of the engine's unique layout. But it's far more than just a quirky sensation; it's the very essence of the R12S's appeal, making even mundane tasks like a city commute an absolute pleasure.

The suspension is another major highlight – incredibly plush and comfortable without compromising its ability to deliver precise handling. Plus, its' fully adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to your exact preferences.  Comfort-wise, it’s a significant step up from the R NineT Racer that was in production for a few years.  It’s also significantly more comfortable than the R12 NineT, making all-day cruising a genuine pleasure, accompanied by a fairly neutral riding position that strikes an ideal balance between sporty and relaxed.The seat is exceptionally comfortable and supportive, even on long, rides where you’re constantly dipping into that rich vein of torque.

Dynamically, the R12S feels planted and composed in the corners. That low centre of gravity, a direct benefit of the boxer engine's design, contributes to a unique handling characteristic. It almost feels as if the engine is actively helping sit the bike back upright as you pull out of a bend. It’s an engaging and enjoyable sensation that only a boxer can deliver.

While the retro vibe is strong, the R12S is packed with modern tech:  hill start control, headlight pro, gear shift assist and rider modes (Rain, Road and Dynamic). You also get heated grips, cruise control, and tyre pressure monitoring. It’s a fantastic blend of old-school charm and contemporary convenience, seamlessly merging the best of both worlds.

However, it’s not all sunshine and lava orange. There are a couple of niggles worth mentioning. Firstly, the wide handlebars (and bar end mirrors) can make lane filtering a bit of a challenge. It’s a trade-off for the great dynamics they offer, but if you’re a regular in heavy traffic, it’s something to consider.

Secondly, in this day and age, especially on a premium bike, the absence of a fuel gauge is a bit of an oversight. Relying on the trip meter and a low fuel warning light that pops up feels a tad archaic. For a bike with a scrollable digital menu displaying tyre pressures, surely a fuel gauge wouldn't have been too much to ask.

The Verdict?

Despite a couple of minor drawbacks – those wide bars and the missing fuel gauge being the main ones – the BMW R12S is an absolute stunner that delivers a fantastic riding experience to match its killer looks. It’s comfortable, handles beautifully, and that addictive surge of boxer torque is a genuine highlight. While the price tag is hefty, you’re getting a truly special motorcycle that blends retro charm with modern performance. It’s a bike that makes you grin every time you twist that throttle and feel that glorious, relentless pull.

Now it's your turn to weigh in:

Do you think the R12S reigns supreme in the retro category, or is there another contender that deserves the title? Share your thoughts and passionate arguments in the comments below – we're eager to hear your perspective!

Head over to YouTube to check out our full video review of the BMW R12S.