Although BMW is a thoroughly modern company making motorcycles for the 2020s, they are still keeping the old airhead/oilhead dream alive with the R12 series—and that’s where we see the new R12 S debut, as a 2025 tribute to the 1973 BMW R90 S, one of the marque’s most popular machines ever made.
The R90 S was a sporty (at least for its era) roadster that went head-to-head with the Japanese superbikes of its day and won races at the IOMTT and even the inaugural AMA superbike title. But today, it is mostly remembered for its highly attractive visuals, as designed by the visionary Hans Muth. The faded-in paint job on the fuel tank gave the R90 S a distinct look in its era that airhead owners still love today.
BMW sort of kept that look going on the R12 S, although some nit-pickers might think they didn’t do as good a job as they should have. Alexander Buckan, BMW’s new head of design, said this:
“The defining design elements of our R 12 S include the handlebar-mounted cockpit fairing with the tinted windshield, the seat with contrast stitching, and the Lava Orange Metallic paint finish as a nod to the legendary R90 S Daytona Orange from 1975. The design is perfectly complemented by details such as the red-laid ‘S’ on the side covers, the red double coach line, and the brushed and clear-lacquered aluminum surfaces of the tank and seat hump.”
Did he make a good-looking bike or was it a wasted effort? You be the judge. But it’s certainly a lot closer to the R90 S than anything else in the R12 series.
Speaking of which: Using the R12 platform as a base means an 1170cc air/oil cooled boxer with about 95 horsepower. A Paralever rear suspension accommodates shaft drive; there’s a USD fork in front, with steering stabilizer. Radial brake calipers are standard in front, along with such niceties as keyless ride, leaning-sensitive ABS and traction control, multiple ride modes and all the other bells and whistles that today’s customers expect.
All good, right? Except the machine isn’t listed on BMW’s Canadian website (which once again saw an overhaul for no good reason that we can fathom, making it harder to find info). But BMW’s Canadian office did send out the details on this bike days after its American launch, which can only suggest that it will arrive here eventually as well. And if it doesn’t… well, you can always buy an original R90 S off the used market.
The BMW R12 S looks like an exciting addition for Canadian riders! Its classic styling combined with modern performance features is sure to make it a favorite. For those eager to explore options and learn more about new arrivals like this, SpeedNation Powersports is a great place to stay connected. Can’t wait to see if this one makes its way to the market here. Thanks for sharing the scoop!
It seems most of these comments are from dealers ?
At least there’s comments – this site is usually a barren wasteland.
The R12 S nails the tribute to the R90 S, with its sleek design and modern features. The Lava Orange color and nostalgic details give it a perfect balance of vintage charm and contemporary performance.
The R12 S is a stunning tribute to the iconic R90 S, blending classic design with modern performance. It captures the essence of the original while offering today’s tech. Can’t wait to see it on the road!
Fingers crossed we’ll see it in Canada soon! In the meantime, here’s hoping for a chance to take one for a spin someday!
While some purists might debate whether the tribute hits all the right notes, the bike still exudes that sporty and elegant charm that made the original so memorable.
The Lava Orange Metallic paint and those red accents really tie it back to the Daytona Orange R90 S, which is such a beloved piece of motorcycle history.