Why BMW's R 12 Cruiser Is Weirdly Good...

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[Scoutx]

We used to call that type of bike a "standard", not a "cruiser". I like it!

[thanasis]

LOL whats up with the KTM 390 DUKE at 8:34 lol

[andysouthardmusic]

It looks like they told different people to design parts of it without showing anyone else, and then they stuck all those pieces together. I love BMW, but this thing looks disjointed.

[fp]

Great video. I had a demo on the R12 in June, but found the Boxer (which I wanted to like) lacking in low down urge/character. I liked it, especially the tech and shaft drive, but it wasn’t what I was looking for: in particular I found the engine higher revving than I anticipated (4000rpm at 70mph in 6th). In the end I settled on a Triumph Speedmaster, which is now run in and seldom has to exceed 3, 500rpm to make enjoyable progress. Now if the Speedmaster had a shaft drive, or belt, that would be grand!

[Jagknorr]

So instead of the big growling engine you instead get: 0:39 Lawnmower! Woooo! 😂

[bmp]

I hope Guzzi soon comes with a California based on the new engine

[JK-wris]

I would call it a standard or roadster, it’s not really a cruiser. That’s fine, BMW has the R18 series, so they already filled that slot. Cool bike, unique.

[verlinswarey]

I don’t mean to sound mean or negative, but I’m never sure why companies go to all the work to make bikes like this. I mean, I’m sure they’re lovely bikes! “Would” I buy one? I suppose in a hypothetical scenario, yes. WILL I buy one? No! I don’t know if that makes any sense, but that’s my 2 cents.

[greenambles]

Great review. I don’t get the concept though. Seems to me the best of neither world. Either get a R18 or a 9T, this seems the poor compromise of both on first views…having said that, though test rode the aboves I’ve not tried this one. I won’t though as the looks not for me but hey, beauty in the eyes of the beholder!

[MH-xdnd]

The boxer engine is quite characterful and it looks OK but it suffers from a fatal flaw - the reduced suspension travel and very poor shock makes it a bone shaking ride. Quite the worst suspended bike I’ve ever ridden and the seating position is comfortable for about 20 minutes. Given the R Nine T had crap suspension I guess this is no surprise.

[tonydare]

I tried both the R12 and R12 ninet. I far, far preferred the latter. The geometry of the R12 made the handling less tight and enjoyable. But I'm biased towards racing bikes and roadsters.

[wheelmannc]

Looks nice for sure... I not a big fan of the engine though... historically it dependable/durable, but just not sure of the flexibility for foot placement for longer rides with those cases sticking out. I say that admitting I have never ridden one. Here in the states, I would like to see the hp maximized instead of the cut back you mention. I would also like to hear with upgraded mufflers, not to be too loud, but to deepen the note.

[Loveboost]

As someone who owned 5 Harley’s. I’d have to go with no cruiser is right for me. But if I had to choose one that I think I can build into something I might like I’d say Rebel 1100

[waltzieg]

I have an "old" R1200C, plenty of character and design, and it fits me well (I'm 6'5 tall).
I've tested the R12: too little for me, great engine but not so nice and sweet like the old BMW cruiser.

[specialcircs]

I generally dislike cruisers but I'd certainly consider this. I'd prefer the R12 NineT I think, not sure about the riding position on the R12, but I love the boxer engine and shaft drive and the base pricing is better than the NineT. I think I'd wait a year or two then pick one up with some extras for a huge discount off new 🙂

[steveparish]

I usually don’t like cruisers but I like this bike except for the goofy rear fender. Reminds me of the toaster tank bimmers for some reason

[gerhardvaneeden]

You'd think a Boxer engine would be crap, but if you've ever ridden a big Beemer with the 1250 engine strapped on, you'll know that it's glorious, sublime. Endless torque, and more than enough speed.

[SS-ckew]

A "naked" bike?! FFS! This genre of motorbike is a STANDARD, named as such by adults because it is "...the standard against which all others are judged". Like many Harleys and "cruisers" the tank is uselessly dinky for such a large displacement motorbike.

Harley's and "cruisers" do just fine on public roads at legal limits. Oh wait! Is it fine to exceed those limits with stupid reckless abandon? Too "heavy"? The bike carries you not the other way 'round. And if you want to see what a BMW trying to look like a Harley looks like, then look no further than the hideous R18 series. Those things are NOT selling well here in Amurica and with good reason. They are F U G L Y.

"Naked" bike. Sophomoronic (it's a Portmanteau, folks) indeed. Otherwise, thanks for a nice look at a possibly nice bike!

SS in commiefornia, USA.

[primologyx]

Personally I own a BMW R12 and I love everything about it.

[Theshybiker]

I had my 1250 rs in for a software recall/update last Friday and was given one of these as courtesy bike for the day. The weather was perfect for riding, took it out and had it returned inside an hour. Bad vibrations through the seat, bars and pegs, extremely clunky gearbox, uncomfortable to ride, I really didn’t like it at all. Not a bike I’d want to ride again, very uninspiring. Just my opinion