Few motorcycles have the lasting impact and instant recognition of the BMW R 90 S. When it debuted, its bold orange paintwork, sleek half-fairing, and torquey 67-horsepower boxer engine made it an icon. But it wasn’t just about looks—the R 90 S proved its performance pedigree on the track, securing a legendary 1-2 finish at the 1976 Daytona 200 under the skilled hands of Steve McLaughlin and Reg Pridmore.
It was a statement from BMW that they could not only compete with but also challenge the dominance of Japanese manufacturers in the performance motorcycle segment. Now, BMW is paying tribute to that legendary machine with a special edition release—the R 12 S.
Designed to celebrate 50 years since the R 90 S first turned heads and won races, the R 12 S takes the foundation of the recently launched R 12 nineT and gives it an extra dose of nostalgia. The most obvious nod to the past is its Lava Orange Metallic paint, which immediately recalls the original bike’s signature color. A sporty cockpit fairing completes the retro look, while Option 719 laced wheels and a single-seat setup with a sculpted rear cowl reinforce its throwback racing aesthetic.
Underneath the vintage styling, however, this is a thoroughly modern machine. The R 12 S shares its bones with the R 12 nineT, which replaced the long-running R nineT earlier this year. With that update came significant improvements, including a beefier suspension setup, refined frame geometry, and an updated electronics package. The 1,170cc air/oil-cooled boxer twin still makes 109 horsepower and 85 lb-ft of torque, but revised engine mapping ensures a broader spread of usable power. These tweaks help maintain the engaging character of the bike while making it even more accessible for everyday riding.
The R 12 S presents an appealing alternative for those who love the idea of owning an R 90 S but ddon’twant to deal with the hassles of maintaining a decades-old classic. With fuel injection, ABS, and ride-by-wire throttle, it delivers the convenience and reliability of a modern motorcycle while still capturing the essence of a golden era in BBMW’shistory.
Practical touches like cruise control, heated grips, and hill start assist only sweeten the deal, making this retro-inspired tribute just as easy to live with as it is fun to ride. Whether yyou’redrawn to its heritage, performance, or simply its stunning aesthetics, the R 12 S is a fitting homage to one of BBMW’smost beloved motorcycles.
At our BMW motorcycle dealership in San Antonio, TX, we take pride in offering a top-tier experience for riders who appreciate performance, innovation, and craftsmanship. As a new BMW motorcycle dealer, we provide a wide selection of new BMW motorcycles for sale, ensuring that every rider can find the perfect bike to match their style and needs.
Whether it’s a sportbike built for speed, an adventure model designed for exploration, or a touring bike crafted for long-distance comfort, our new BMW motorcycle inventory has something for everyone. Beyond sales, our commitment to BMW Motorrad enthusiasts extends to expert service and support. Our service center is staffed with highly trained technicians who specialize in BMW motorcycles, ensuring every ride stays in peak condition.
From routine maintenance to complex repairs, we use genuine parts and accessories to keep every bike performing at its best. Riders looking to customize their motorcycles can explore our selection of BMW Motorrad parts and accessories designed to enhance performance, comfort, and style. For those interested in making a new BMW motorcycle their own, we offer finance specials to make ownership more accessible. Our team is dedicated to helping riders navigate financing options, ensuring they find a plan that fits their budget.
Whether someone is a first-time rider or a seasoned BMW Motorrad enthusiast, our dealership in San Antonio, TX, is the destination for quality motorcycles, exceptional service, and a seamless buying experience. Check out our inventory today to get started.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur. Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative. This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
We improve our products and advertising by using Microsoft Clarity to see how you use our website. By using our site, you agree that we and Microsoft can collect and use this data. Our privacy statement has more details.
Notifications