Recently, BMW Motorrad announced the launch of a new retro-style model, the R 12 S, to pay tribute to the iconic 1973 model, the R 90 S. The R 12 S is built on the R 12 nineT platform and is priced at $21,590 (equivalent to about RMB 157,000) overseas. As a retro motorcycle infused with sentiment and performance, can its arrival once again excite the hearts of fans?
Classic Reappearance: Design Hit Sentiment
The exterior design of the R 12 S is centered on “classic reproduction”. The paint is Lava Orange metallic color with brushed aluminum and red double pinstripe, inspired by the classic Daytona Orange color of the 1975 R 90 S. The red “S” logo on the air filter side panel is also a delicate tribute to the original red “900” badge. The overall shape is full and smooth, with an aerodynamic handlebar fairing, a design that debuted on the R 90 S.
The 1973 R 90 S was a landmark motorcycle. With its 900cc air-cooled boxer engine, it produced 67 horsepower and a top speed of 124 mph, making it the top production performance car at the time. Even more talked about was its performance on the track. In 1976, Steve McLaughlin won the first AMA Superbike race while Reg Pridmore won the first annual championship.
Core performance: nostalgic and modern super-burning power
The power core of the R 12 S is exactly the same as that of the R 12 nineT, equipped with a 1170cc air-cooled/oil-cooled twin-cylinder boxer engine, which can output a maximum power of 80kW (109 horsepower)/7000rpm and a maximum torque of 115N·m/6500rpm. Power is transmitted through a six-speed gearbox and a single-plate dry clutch, and the rear wheel is driven by a universal drive shaft.
The suspension also maintains high specifications, with a fully adjustable 45mm inverted front fork at the front and a Paralever rear suspension with adjustable rebound and preload at the rear, which not only ensures the comfort of highway cruising, but also takes into account the stability of intense driving. The braking system consists of a front dual 310mm brake disc with a four-piston radial caliper, and a rear 265mm single disc with a two-piston caliper, and is equipped with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro as standard, providing precise and stable braking performance.
Fusion of retro details and modern technology
As a model that combines retro and modern, the R 12 S is more refined in details:
Retro elements: using classic double-circle mechanical pointer instrument, with Option 719 Wheel Classic II retro wheels, the rims are made of natural aluminum and anodized aluminum, supplemented by silver spokes.
Modern technology: standard heated handlebars, cruise control, hill start assist and other functions, optional Shift Assistant Pro quick shift and Headlight Pro smart headlights.
High sentiment premium, is it worth it?
As a “R 12 nineT with a fairing”, the price of R 12 S is nearly 5,300 US dollars (about 38,500 yuan) more expensive than R 12 nineT. This price difference mainly comes from the fairing design and sentimental added value. For car enthusiasts who love retro style and emotional heritage, this may be “priceless”.
However, for domestic car fans, the accessibility of this car is still in doubt. At present, BMW has not introduced R 12 nineT in China, and the launch time of R 12 S is even farther away. If you like this style of car enthusiasts, you may need to be patient.
Sentiment is supreme, will everyone pay for it?
The appearance of BMW R 12 S allows classic retro car fans to see a modern replica full of ritual and mechanical beauty. However, the price of 157,000 yuan and the high sentiment premium will make it a “dream car” for some people, but it may not become the main sales force in the market. Will you pay for this classic sentiment?
Welcome to leave your opinions in the comment section and discuss the charm and future of retro cars together!
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