BMW R 12 nine T launch- Top five highlights

The BMW R 12 nine T is the newest launch in BMW Motorrad India’s Heritage line-up. The bike presents a new flavor of modern-retro motorcycle and what sets it apart from other such bikes is its Boxer engine. Here are its top five highlights.

Modern-retro design

BMW has given the R 12 nine T a unique appearance and it almost looks like the company has designed the bike around the big, Boxer twin engine. More on that later. For now, let's just soak in the view, shall we?

The design elements that capture your attention are the large fuel tank, the chunky USD fork and the round LED headlight. The triangular side panel is a neat touch and so is the curved rear fender that acts as the tail section as well. In classic BMW fashion, the attention to detail is very good, like the dual exhaust pipes on the left of the bike or the way the engine sticks out. It complements the overall looks of the bike.

The Boxer twin

The R 12 nine T is powered by a 1,170cc, air and oil-cooled, Boxer engine that makes 109bhp at 7,000rpm and 115Nm at 6,500rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The engine should offer a punchy midrange and have a characterful nature. Not to mention the  side-to-side rocking motion that you’ll feel while starting up the bike or blipping it at standstill.

The electronics

It gets a decent set of electronics that includes keyless ignition, dynamic traction control and three ride modes- Rain, Road and Dynamic. Opting for the ‘Comfort package’ will get you additional features such as Hill Start Control, heated grips and cruise control. Other features include LED lights, USB port and an electronic immobilizer.

The hardware

The chassis comprises a tubular steel bridge frame that is suspended by a USD fork and a paralever swingarm with a directly linked spring strut at the rear. The bike rides on 17-inch, wire-spoke wheels. Braking duties are taken care of by a pair of 310mm discs and a single 265mm disc at the rear.

The price

The BMW R 12 nine T is priced at Rs 20.20 lakh, ex-showroom. That makes it an expensive buy in comparison to 1,200cc competition like the Triumph Speed Twin that’s priced at Rs 11.89 lakh, ex-showroom.