2024 BMW R12 First Ride Review - Better than the NineT?
Вставка
- Опубліковано 22 кві 2024
- BMW have taken the R12nineT and turned it more cruisery and a little bit cheaper, so the question is could the imaginatively titled R12 actually be better than it’s more expensive retro brother?
Buy me a coffee at www.buymeacoffee.com/themisse...
My Patreon page / themissendenflyer
Get 5% off your ABR Festival tickets with "TMF5" at checkout!
Use this link to get a 10% discount on the Beeline satnav bit.ly/43PjgE8
I buy my riding kit from Sportsbike shop www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/#/23...
Exclusive TMF Merch on my website themissendenflyer.com/ and of course Teespring (click the red spring top right).
Links to my channel sponsors:-
Bikerheadz bikerheadz.co.uk/
Monimoto monimoto.com/uk/ride/4/
Canary Motorcycle Tours www.canarymotorcycletours.com...
If you want to follow my socials then I'm most active on Instagram @missendenflyer
You can also follow me on Facebook too The Missenden Flyer@TheMissendenFlyer
I'm also - rarely - on that X (Twitter) thing! Join me @MissendenFlyer
Don't forget your other TMF Discounts!:-
Mention The Missenden Flyer when buying from panigaleheatshield.com/ or ducatispacers.com/ for discounts on Panigale heat shields or Ducati/Triumph throttle spacer kits. Use the code MISSENDEN to get the $10 discount on the heat shield, or heat shield/spacer kit bundle and MISSENDENSK for 10% off the spacer kit.
I use the following equipment to record and edit my Videos:-
DJI Osmo Action 4 camera amzn.to/3GFeL65
DJI Mavic Air drone (fly more combo) amzn.to/2JX3l23
RODE Lavalier microphone for in helmet audio amzn.to/3IzlIGT
RODE Wireless Go dual channel radio mics amzn.to/3ofuIqp
Power Director 15 for the PC (for video editing) amzn.to/2kP3HaR
Rode VIDEOMICPRO On Camera Microphone for general use amzn.to/2qvcZwv
Rode Deadcat VMPR Windshield to kill wind noise amzn.to/2qroOWG
Neewer CN 160 LED Dimmable Ultra High Power Panel Video Light amzn.to/2qQPEs2
Logitech Brio Stream Webcam amzn.to/3VhpcFs
Neweer USB Mic for voice overs amzn.to/3TchZnp
STCRERAG Tripod Clip Mounts for locating cameras in awkward positions amzn.to/3Pk68Tf
A pair of Neweer 700W Lights for additional garage lighting amzn.to/3uZnDl0
My current motorcycles are:-
BMW R1200GS
Kawasaki Z900 RS SE
Triumph Speed Twin
Royal Enfield Custom 650 Interceptor
Honda GL1800 Goldwing Tour DCT (Airbag)
Suzuki GSXS125 (OK, that's the Mrs bike!)
Please be aware I am not a professional journalist or otherwise claim to be an expert in any way in motorcycles or anything else. I'm just an ordinary biker like you probably are. Please regard my videos as entertainment only and if information presented is important to you, please verify it via a knowledgable third party....the videos I post are just my opinions and are no more valid than anyone elses.
For any additional enquiries please send an e-mail (please no DM's or Facebook Messenger messages that tend to get lost) via TheMissendenFlyer@gmail.com, follow me via Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or preferably leave a comment below... - Авто та транспорт
A longer term review sure would be appreciated! Thank you for your great reviews 👍
That rear mudguard looks wrong to me as i dont think it suits the rest of the bike. Why then have they fitted a useless short front mudguard ?
Beats me!
It's a BMW. so it looks better with panniers :-) . Looks like the mounting dubbins are there already.
@@clasqminteresting point I wonder if they are for panniers, but I still don’t like it.
@@clasqm Not on the left side with that exhaust.
Like the color scheme…as said earlier the rear fender fits the bike, but a bit of minimalist front fender eh? Contrary to some others, and opinions are subjective, do like how it looks…large big company bikes are expensive, as everything is these days. Setting the stage for a “retro” GS saw pictures of maybe? Life changes had to reduce my bike a few years back…but my GSA is getting lonely in the shed! Thank you for the review, would be curious how living with it day to day would be like!
I haven't been big on cruisers in a long time, but something about this bike speaks to me in a good way. My local shop just got a red one in, and I think it may end up in my garage!
A great bike and a great review, thank you! Yes please get it for longer and make an in depth review, see how she holds up over time, I’d love to see such a review from you! Thanks again and ride safely!
Great review, as always. I haven't owned a BMW in nearly 25 years, but this one really appeals to me.
They designed it to be very attractive. I rode it recently. Great machine. Will upload it very soon in May. Just drop by to check my content. You may like it. Thanks a lot. Cheers.
The keyless feature is a fantastic one for people like me who are used to parking the bike in the garage. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve made the stop at the local market and forgotten my key in the ignition because I’m so used to leaving it in there when parking it at home. Great video and review! Thanks from the States!
Took one out a week ago and had 3hrs on it from inverness to Achnasheen (Scottish Highlands) absolutely loved, first naked bike I've ridden in years comfy and really moves. I usually ride an RT prefer the RT for touring but would love an R12 for day rides if I had the cash! Another top review buddy
1 month later, I've watched this again and I still love it! The local dealer has one that they are unboxing this weekend and hopefully I'll be able to test ride it soon!
Definitely get a long termer Andy. May try and get a test bike out. Good review as usual.
Thank you!
Thanks for the review! I too do not consider myself a cruiser fan…but this one interests me! Time to upgrade my speed twin & get something kinder to my aging knees 🫣!! This is a contender! Love to hear more if you get a long term loaner 😉
Longer term review please, excellent quality production as usual Andy.
Thank you David!
@@TheMissendenFlyer - I know I said it fell out of the ugly tree, but I too would like a long term review of this bike. I would also like to know how it affects your shoulder on longer rides etc.
Love the look of this bike Andy.
Yes I like it (and it is great to ride) but I'm not sure I LOVE the look???
Thanks Andy a longer review would be great ….. I like the R12 and doesn’t look ‘off’. Nice one BMW. More please Andy
Yep, I'd like to see a longer test of this one please.
Something about this is really appealing to me. I’d be interested in you doing a longer term review.
Good review as usual.This reminds me of the R850R which is/was a great bike.
Can’t stop seeing a face on the fuel cap 😅
Another great vid Andy!
Glad you enjoyed it
From the US Thanks Flyer.
Great review of the new R12! I like it👍
Thanks! 👍
The moment I saw the tread pattern on the Bridgestone BT-45s I was triggered to a whole bunch of happy riding memories. The first used V-4 Honda, a 1986 VF500F that I bought had a set of worn out BT-45's on it - on the ride home I hated them, old and squared off and cupped... then I looked them up as I needed to order new tires...the internet was full of top recommendations for them so I bought my first set. And, once installed, the brand new BT-45s proved to be really a great, sporty tire for a vintage sportbike. I have had a couple of other 70's - 90's bikes since then equipped with them. I have had so many great rides on them...and always had total confidence in all conditions riding on the Bridgestones. I had a Laverda 750 with them too, and a Moto Guzzi 850 LeMans Mk II, and even an RD350LC. I have never ridden them on a big heavy bike like that BMW. How were they?
Seemed fine thpugh I'm not really expert enough rider to notice....
They are actually BT 46's (the update to the bt 45). I have them on my harley sportster (which is very heavy and they are really good - best I have had on there yet and a fairly decent upgrade from the older 45's - more grip, better corner stability and longer life .
Definitely do a longer-term review. That could be my next bike.
Have to admit not a bike I thought would appeal to me, but it certainly looks very interesting. Not to sure about the front mudguard 'supports', but wouldn't stop me from buying one, if I was in the market for one. Roll bag and passport would be great additions for touring haha. Another winner Mr Flyer.
It is very well proportioned in terms of dimensions, engine and tech. The right measure I would say. I rode it. The videos will be available soo. Great video Andy. Take care. Cheers.
Great engine! And I love that colour really nice good video 👍
Thank you very much!
@@TheMissendenFlyer and yes long term on it would be great 👍
Love the burgundy red colour, there were touches of that on my old Street Twin. If I owned this bike then my first job would be to send all of the grey bits to the powder coaters to be made black or burgundy. That's what I did with the Triumph, odd that BMW have done the same thing, for me it's the one part of the design that brings down the finish.
Hi Andy. The R850R was my favorite bike I ever had. I bought an R nine T a couple of years ago thinking it would be like it. I was dead wrong and didn’t like it at all. It was very much an ‘on top of’ bike. That looks very much like a ‘sit in’ style which looks like a possible successor. I’ll deffo try one. I really like the looks of it too. Very subjective I know.
Nice bike, I really like the look of it. Therefore, yes, a longer-term review would be great.
Rode it and I agree on the look. Rides very nicely. Will upload my first impressions videos soon. Drop by bro, you may like my content. Cheers. :)
Hi Andy. Great review of the BMW R12, hopefully you can get it back for a longer period of time. I’m really interested as a BMW rider.
Please do a long term review!
Definitely do a longer term review please👍
I currently have an old R1150GS and love the engine, but am looking for something with similar characteristics, but without the bulk and height, and within that modern retro genre.
I recall that you reviewed the Triumph Speed master, which this BMW could be likened to, and was very positive about it.
I would appreciate your thoughts on comparing the two.
Thanks for the great content.
Cheers Tony and request duly noted!
Today my friend pointed out to me on your video you mentioned the 'extended' gear lever, he thought it was being typical me 'fussy' (being a retired lift designer) but now he's got a second opinion from the TMF (which is also stating you have it from the guru himself). Thanks Andy for all your efforts making these bike appraisals; better buy you and the missis a coffee.
I was in a holiday resort recently , the lift make was etched onto the stainless steel control panel it was 'Schindler' schindlers lift , true story
@@LeeWs1970 Schindler 'list'
The new R12s look awesome.. I had one of the first originals R9s great bike only sold as went to a GS for more touring etc.. I much prefer the styling without the air intake on the right hand side.. top job BMW :) Pete
Hi Andy, yes I think a long termer would be good, I'm with you on preferring this bike to the R12 nine T it just looks classy, and that Victoria plum colour really does look splendid. Could be tempted, oh dear. Thank you.
I like the look of it.
Great ride review. Isn't it amazing, how they just make the venerable boxer engine better and better? I remember some 35 years ago reading in some motorcycle magazine how the writer could not understand why the engine configuration was not retired. It's not just retro, it works and makes sense in so many ways. I'd love to have one, rode one many years ago, an R75/5..
I was never interested in a cruiser style bike but I test rode the silver one Option 719 and I loved it! So comfortable and the power was surprisingly wonderful. Please do a long term review. This girl is very interested.
Great video thanks😃 love this bike looks great. 😃👍😎🤘
It’s incredible how the looks of this bike is splitting opinion, some of the comments seem vociferously against the looks, whilst others love it. I guess it’s just as well we don’t all like the same thing.
You can get a Tachometer as a factory extra. Loved the review.
Great review. I have a 2016 BMW RNineT and it is one of the best bikes I have ever owned, but if I had my way, the RNineT would be a bit lower, with a more relaxed riding position. The R12 fits my wish exactly. Definitely on the list as the next acquisition despite the eye watering cost.
Sweet bike ! I always loved these engine, just not a fan of a shaft drive. But this looks to be a sweetheart with saddlebags on some apline road.
And design is so simple and mature, nothing too blingy or shouting 'look at me', would love to try it. Cheers !
Thankyou
Welcome
Never considered BMW as a retro naked bike but this one ticks all the boxes. Will have to book in a test ride one of nicest bikes I have seen in a long time.
Brilliant Andy, I was nearly lost lol,lovely video,you should have stopped at the Anglers for a coffee 😂
Glad you enjoyed it
Good vid. Like the quick shift. The lower weight, easy handling should be handy Andy for a fellow with a bum shoulder. I'm loving my Urban GS. Full Ohlins to install. The new semi Retro GS is coming. This fall at the shows it should be. Next t ime Be safe Do long term. Take luggage off Kawa and head up north.
Longer term review needed i reckon. Im after a shaft driven bike, similar category, now beamer has brought this out it has me wondering. The back end needs to grow on me, but I think thats due to really liking the RnineT looks.
Like all new models, their reaching out with ideas to grab your attention and your $$. I agree, if only endless money and space I'd have it- and probably most every bike.!! ( Bike Fever). Lol. I like the retro GS idea. Great idea. The sunshine does seem to improve the "scenery". Great scenery and video. No mention of a fuel guage? My dealer has the demo ride truck this weekend. I'll know then. 👍👍5🏍🙋♂️
No - no fuel guage!
I am 500 miles into the run-in period on mine.
I went for the option 719 variant - the Mrs said that she loves the silver and yellow and that I should get that one.. .who am I to argue...
First time on a cruiser for me, although I would say that this is more a sportser cruiser if there is such a thing? it is not legs forward heavy lump cruiser, it has really nice usable power and torque and turns surprisingly well.
I am very happy to have moved from bigger top heavy bikes to one that is so easy to get on with but still has so much shove when you open the throttle.
Regarding multiple comments already, correct there is no fuel gauge, no its not a problem, once you hit the reserve sensor you get an icon on the dash and it starts counting upwards from zero for how many miles you have done on reserve. As you are rarely more than 10 or 15 miles away from a fuel station in the UK it really isnt a concern - if it does bother you then just set the trip at fill up like people have been doing forever.
Thanks for the feedback and enjoy the new bike!
Beautiful place Marlow, and nice bike! I'm thinking about the BMW F900R as a first bike with the A2 license; it's smooth and well done, but not quite cheap!. It's got the same key less system.
Sweet looking bike Mike
Who's Mike?
Just using a little bit of poetic license....sorry!
Well done! Great review! I had no interest in this bike until I watched this video and now ....... I think I want one. You're costing me money. LOL
Modern BMW 's do tend to strike me as having lost a bit of the soul they used to have, but this bike seems like a lovely thing 👍
Well i just got the chance to test this this weekend at my local dealer and i must say i really loved it. I ride a 1250gsa but this is a really nice bike, considering it as a second bike :)
That thing is a real looker, wow.
I really like the styling , the rear mudguard is a bit Harley I think , it would be good if you got one for a bit longer .
I would be interested in more on the R12.
Great to find this vid, bright spot on a dreary morning here in North Yorkshire. It’s probably my age but this is the first BMW bike that I really like since I had my R850r in the 90s. If I were you sir, I’d be wheeling that Kwacker round to Bahnstormers now! Long term review? Yes please.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I’m glad you did a vid on this bike. I really like it and would consider one when I get rid of my GSA and Harley.
That’s a handsome beast. I love how BMW choose to either emphasise the boxer engine or make it fade into the background.
Great review Andy, must admit I'm on the fence with this, kind of like it bit not 100% sure. It's a fair price 👌
Yes I'm kind of with you on the look - rides nice though.....
Great looking machine Andy, great style and colour.Only question from me are the handlebars too narrow ? That's only thing I could see to complain about.😊
Really like this bike. Reminds me of the Honda X4 I had.
I can't help but think it's a bit of a parts bin special. I'm not sure why, though. Enjoyed the video as alway.s.
I love it!
So pleased you explained the key hole without a key - it was doing my head in! Long termer - yes please.
The key hole could be for a steering lock, perhaps! An optional.
@@michaelandersen4745 It is. TMF said that in his video!
I'm not really into retros or cruisers but you are gradually persuading me
I quite like this bike as it's not too cruiser looking
I think a long term test would be good but why have they fitted such a small tank 14lts !
I think I'd go for the R12 NineT version, but nice looking bike IMO. I'd like a shaft drive bike next.
Thanks
Thank you Michael!
It’s an interesting bike. I am not a fan of cruisers, mainly because of the feet forward position. I also tried the Honda Rebel 1100 which has mid-controls, and I didn’t like that, either. So, the low seat height since I’m a short arse, and the positioning of the feet on this bike make it quite appealing to me. Also, I have become an unabashed BMW fanboy since acquiring a GS. I’d love to see you do a long term review of this bike.
Love the colour and the general look, its a real classic motorcycle. Not a fan of the rear guard though, it looks like there should be grab handles attached to where the two bolts are, but you said that the pillion pack was already installed, so what does the passenger hold onto? Additional cost for passenger foot pegs, seriously BMW! Great review all the same Andy and I would like to see more of the R12 please.
Hi, I love the motorcycle R12 . It would be great if you could get it long-term for a more in-depth review. You never mentioned vibration ? Was that because you did not encounter it at any speed 🤔
Keep up the great work. I really love this one.
Regards Andy
No annoying vibes no, but character yes.....
That is a proper stunning looking bike, totally agree with you about the clocks, I am not a fan of led displays
I'm not so much a fan of LED displays, but I want a tach, and I hate those little small round gauges with a dozen different things displayed on them.
@@peterwilson8039 BMW has an option for twin analog gauges, or TFT display. R12 model is one of their Heritage Collection, and options are plentiful.
Thanks for posting this. I especially like when you went over that bridge.
In the looks department this is a 10 out of 10. The black and gold/yellow version is a sexy looking bike.
Dislikes and/or what I would like to have seen on it:
1. Liquid cooled engine
2. Fuel gauge indicator
3. Yes, BMW do something about that keyless key hole thingy. :)
It is liquid cooled. Note oil cooler/radiator between forks. No fuel gauge needed. Warning light counts down dozens of miles in reserve before empty. Key is for mechanical lockset to prevent theft. Smart. 🏍
Totally agree with you about a GS with that engine and with a bit less tech than the latest models. Should be a lot more affordable too.
I really like the styling of the R12, please do get one for a longer test Andy.
Ditto, like to see more of this bike, the engine and transmission set up looks to have the goldilocks potential.
A great machine and a great review!! Only wish BMW would offer a bigger fuel tank (18 litres) as an optional extra for long distance riders.
A fuel gauge would be handy as well
Wouldn't give that one a second glance in a showroom i have to say.
Or at the cafe 😬
Thumbnail didn't do it justice. This bike is a real looker!
It’s incredible how the looks of this Bike splitting opinion, looking at the comments here. There are people that either seem to love it or hate it - very devisive if it seems!
Morning Andy. I'm not really a cruiser guy, although I have a soft spot for the Rocket III. This R12 just looks right, though. Interestingly, I think that the R12 9T doesn't look quite as nice as the old R9T (I'm not sure that anybody agrees with me, mind).
Thanks for another great vid👍
I agree with you - I think the original RnineT looks better than both these new bikes - I think losing that air intake on the front right is something to do with it....
Great review as always Andy R12 reminds me of the RE Shotgun, It would be great if BMW Produced a Gs type version of this bike as i think the new 1300 has gone to far and lost its way ,what do you think ..
I've always found thinner tyres to be more stable - they don't follow the road ripples so much etc - my Classic 350 RE is a great example. I think wider tyres can offer more grip, but often at the expense of that "on rails" feel... I suspect this beemer is one of those "unexpected gems" - would be great to see a long term test. It's making me think about getting back to a beemer! 🙂
Thanks for watching and for stopping by Ian!
Yes please definitely do the long term review Andy. For now I’m interested in off roading and longer trips abroad so wouldn’t get R12 BUT I can definitely see myself having it as my only bike when I get older 😆😁 Not usually interested in this type but I had to sit on it in green colour during motorcycle show in Excel. Just hate BMW for charging £2K more for that green
This might be the Beemer that could win me back from my Thunderbird. I rode an R1200C for a few years and loved it. Really more roadster than cruiser. Though it was incredibly underpowered (mostly due to tune), it was very nimble in turns and the wishbone front made it one of the most stable bikes in wet weather I've ever ridden. From your video it looks like they've tuned this one much better. That exhaust would have to go, though. Until then, the Triumph Thunderbird is still the best performance cruiser in my book.
Hello Andy , I am very interested in how you would find the suspention on the R12 over time and on more bumpy roads so yes please on a longer review .. I am guessing with around 40 miles to the US Gallon that the gass range is just under 150 mile to the tank .Those two are the only maybes for me ... I did hear they were working on an R Nine T GS .Cant wait to see that one :) Happy spring riding to us all .. YOur early April looks like our late April ... All the best from New England . Guy
Sadly our late April is looking even worse!!!
For the keyhole, I would take a BMW badge and stick it with a half key and stick it in there.
Nice bike. I am thinking to trade in my R1200GSA for this little thing.
I think BMW will sell truckloads of these. It's the Honda CB750 of the BMW lineup. If you don't try to pigeon hole it into one category or another and just enjoy the ride, it will be a great weekend fun bike.
Great bike in my eyes.
I like where put steering stabiliser Not up top between the tank and bars.
Excellent review! Elephant in the room,…. Does it have fuel gauge?
Sadly I didn't find one!
Very nice. Last BMW was a R75/5 so maybe it's time to upgrade....
Yes it's probably about time!
I wanted to love the R nine T but felt like an ape on an undersized bicycle with my legs. The R12 is wonderful but huge and I am not a HD fan… this bike makes more sense in the tradition of the older R series… I rode a R65 in the past… I would like to see a R12GS to have a real version of the R80GS which the R nine T Urban GS was not…
Great review. For me, the bike is a hit although the rear mudguard seems a bit big to my way of thinking. I do like shaft drive over a chain and heated grips with this country's rotten weather in mind are a must of course. Cheers
I would like to see one with most of the extras like luggage windshield fuel mileage
Looks a little like a Speedmaster / Bobber chopped in half…I still like my 22’ R9T Scrambler…but Im sure it rides nice….great review!!
I'm in, not sure about the added €700 for the red paint, but for under €17k with nice options it's perfect for me..
It would be good to hear Mrs Flyer’s comments on how she found riding pillion on the machine plus a goosey, goosey at options on the luggage. So extended loan? Yes please.
I do like the styling, and if you recall my repeated (irritating? I hope not, lol) comments, I'm in the same frame of mind as you with the Z900rs, the Speed Twin and R9T vying for my attention. I prefer the mid controls and not much of a cruiser fan, preferring a taller ride... usually. It's an intriguing alternative. Yes, I very much would like to see you get a longer run with this bike and share your thoughts. The R12 looks more capable of doing local 2-up riding. I wonder if Carol has taken a peek at it, throw a leg over it and formed any thoughts on riding pillion on it.
I think it looks good, another great review. I guess the rear lights are the same as the new GS and incorporated into the indicators, apologise if you mentioned that during bthe review I was distracted while watching. I think a longer term Luan bike would because good idea, once you've made some room of course.
Yes those same rear light arrangements
That is a shame - it’s not very retro (or safe imo). Like everything else about it - bit of a surprise. Go for a long term review if you can.
@@davidhall2298 It's a modern retro, and safe enough for US Dept of Transportation.
@@josephstuhlreyer7972 Not sure how many of the US Dept of Transport are bikers, but the aftermarket companies will be pleased.
I am receiving my GS 1300 next month and giving back my beloved GS 1250, I own a R18 and probably also the new M-XR, I’ve had two R9t plus first and second generation of XR, but after riding last week this new R12, I have to say I don’t remember having so much fun ..! The simplicity and the totally analog driving experience was just phenomenal..! My dealer thought I was joking as he knows me quite well and couldn’t believe me till he drove it himself. My advice guys, just go and try one and smile for the rest of the day.
If you really want analogue try a Royal Enfield.
@@sergentcolon1 Does it have a boxer (very low center of gravity) and a cardan (no chain maintenance)..? Can you brake in the middle of the curve without any kind of front reaction upwards..? What I loved about that R12 is the simplicity, the “old look” design but paired with a great modern road dynamics..of course with the limitations of a “sport” cruiser. As I mentioned, go and try one..😎
@@joaquinbaturone8588 I’ve owned loads of BMW’s in the past so I’m completely aware of their ride qualities and capabilities. Don’t need to ride one. Personally these days I prefer smaller, lighter and considerably cheaper bikes. My Meteor 350 gives me as many smiles as any bike I’ve owned.
Not a bad looking bike, but I don't like the way the rear mud guard is not centered on the wheel when looking from the side. Low seat height, maybe this is the next bike for Mrs.Flyer. Thanks for the video.
The Perfect Bike !!!! I want one, Hell yeah !!!
R12 is near perfect. I would prefer un-bobbed rear fender, and a more traditional front fender. But I'm a buyer.
Let's know if you do get a long term lone so you can mention luggage options etc.