When you first see an R12 G/S, one can't help but wonder, Why does this exist?, Who is this for? " Where the heck are you going to ride this? The R12G/S defies logic in the way seeing an obese person doing gymnastics tilts your world on its side and gives you a tic in your right eye; it's not supposed to work, yet strangely and perversely, it does!
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The R12 G/S is essentially a super dual sport, a big engine cradled in an off-road-biased frame with wheels, tyres, and styling to match. So, the R12 G/S is a fantastic dual sport that is more than capable, but it is encroaching on the territory of its namesake, the actual GS. We spent a week with this head-scratcher to see who, what, where, and why the G/S takes a spot on the Motorrad price list.
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Styling
If one examines the original Dakar race bike from the late 1980s, it is immediately apparent where the R12 G/S draws its styling inspiration. The base machine comes in a white and blue paint scheme with a brown seat, whereas the Option 719 model we tested is adorned with a stunning desert sand paint job, complete with satin black trims and a bright red frame. The high front fender and round bikini fairing also lend to a scrambler aesthetic not often found on modern Motorrad products.
In this trim, the bike is very eye-catching and received many comments while we were exploring the countryside.
Engine and Drivetrain
The bike's monstrous 1170cc air—and oil-cooled boxer engine takes up most of its size. It produces 82kW and 115Nm, which is more than enough to move the featherlight 201kg weight of the bike around with ease.
Power is transmitted through a six-speed sequential transmission that also features a shift assist system, but it is most effective when operating in the lower rev range. The bike features a 17 / 21-inch wheel and tyre setup, with our test unit equipped with aggressive knobby tyres for hardcore off-road work.
Tech and Features
The R12 G/S lacks the tech that has proliferated on modern bikes, including big screens, multi-button controls, and wireless connectivity. There is a single heritage-style gauge pod featuring a small digital screen that displays the ride mode, odometer, or range. That's it. As mentioned, our test unit was the Option 719 model, which indicates the colour scheme, trim package, and accessories.
Let's Ride
Taking the R12 G/S out on a ride is an experience. The bike has plenty of power and cruises well, but its smaller fuel tank means you won't be able to go far—15 litres with 4 litres in reserve. The knobby tyres aren't good for tar, but once you find some gravel, it really comes alive. The 201kg weight does make it a bit of a handful on low-traction surfaces, so keeping an eye on your throttle inputs is essential.
The bike is very comfy to ride despite the vibrations from the tyres on the road, and once you get used to the power delivery, it's just fantastic when you start to throw it around.
Model and Pricing
| R12 G/S Base | R 273 000 |
| R12 G/S Option 719 (As Tested) | R 328 500 |
| Optional Equipment fitted: Comfort Package - Gear shift assist, Heated Grips, Cruise Control, Hill start assist Option 719 - Sandrover matte paint, passenger kit, Chrome header pipe, Billet Shadow Kit II | R 55 500 |
BMW R12 G/S is sold with a 5-year warranty. Consult your local Motorad dealer for further information.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Beautiful styling
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio
- Briiliant off-road handling
- Minimal maintenance
Cons
- Expensive
- Knobby tyres are no good on tar with so much power on tap
- Shaft Assist was temperamental
Verdict
The R12 G/S is the only BMW that can out-GS a GS. It is highly capable and absolutely fun to ride, but it is expensive and costs just about the same as a normal GS model. It's hard to pinpoint who will buy this bike and why BMW even built some, due to the above reasons. I, for one, am glad it exists just because of the weird factor. So if you want a bike that is as capable as a GS but lacks all the faff that the modern bikes have, the R12 will be nigh on perfect.
