The 2024 BMW R 12 nineT replaces the R nineT, the retro-modern roadster BMW introduced a decade earlier. It is the performance-oriented sibling of the cruiser-style R 12, with a new frame, upgraded suspension and brakes, and styling that recalls the /5 and R 90 S of the 1970s.
Its air-/oil-cooled 1170cc DOHC boxer twin is retuned for Euro 5 and makes 109 horsepower at 7000 rpm, 14 horsepower more than the standard R 12. Peak torque of 85 ft-lbs arrives at 6500 rpm, a 10 ft-lb increase over the outgoing nineT. The engine pulls from anywhere in the rev range with linear acceleration, and new twin mufflers give it a satisfying sound.
Rain, Road, and Dynamic modes set throttle response, and Road mode adds more traction-control and engine-braking intervention for tight roads. A 6-speed transmission and dry clutch send power through a shaft final drive.
The steel trellis frame carries 17-inch cast aluminum wheels with Continental ContiRoad tires, in place of the R 12’s 19-/16-inch combination. A damping-adjustable 45mm inverted fork and a spring-preload and rebound-damping adjustable shock each have 4.7 inches of travel, 1.2 inches more than the R 12. The suspension is firm around town and excellent in the canyons.
With 27.7 degrees of rake, 4.4 inches of trail, and a 485-pound curb weight, the R 12 nineT handles deliberately and stays stable. The rider triangle is only slightly canted forward, so it is comfortable enough for commuting, and the seat is 31.3 inches high.
Radially mounted Brembo 4-piston calipers grip 310mm front discs, backed by a 265mm rear disc. Cornering-aware ABS Pro and Intelligent Emergency Call are standard.
Twin analog-style gauges with a small LCD inset suit the retro look, and a 3.5-inch TFT display is a $145 option. The $1524 Select Package adds a quickshifter, cruise control, heated grips, hill start assist, and Connected Ride Control, and the $2275 Option 719 II package adds styling upgrades, including a brushed aluminum tank and a red frame.
The 2024 BMW R 12 nineT is $16,295 in Blackstorm Metallic. San Remo Green Metallic is a $325 option, and Option 719 Aluminum / Night Black is also available.
Benda motorcycles are beginning to make a ripple on US shores with four intriguing and competitive models, courtesy of its partnership with Keeway Group. We were impressed with the Napoleonbob 500 and have now gotten our gloves on the persuasive, entry-level 2026 Benda Chinchilla 300, with its modest MSRP of $4999. It would be difficult to design a more welcoming entry-level cruiser than this easy-handling, visually appealing boulevard bobber. Editor Don Williams and Associate Editor Kelly Callan discuss the Benda Chinchilla 300 and how it actually rode for them.
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Our guest this episode is Jesse Merriman, Chief Technician for Jeremy McWilliams at the Arch Motorcycle racing project. Arch Racing was founded by Gard Hollinger and Keanu Reevs to compete in the Moto America Super Hooligan race series. Teejay Adams chats with Jesse about the Arch motorcycle and the challenges of extracting the absolute most from an air-cooled V-Twin racing engine and custom chassis.
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Here’s quick reminder to check out our monthly digital magazine. It’s filled with everything you want to read on motorcycling, including some things you’ve probably not seen elsewhere. It’s absolutely free and you will find it on the Apple App Store and of course on Google Play as well.
Don’t forget to leave us your comments on our social media—we’re on all the usual platforms at Ultimate Motorcycling. We love hearing your feedback… so good or bad, please let us know what you think. If there’s something you’d like us to cover, we’d love to hear those ideas too!
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