BMW is strengthening its retro range with a new R12 cruiser model for 2024, delivering what promises to be a laid back and highly customisable platform for fans of the classic BMW boxer engine.

Sharing its basic frame and engine configuration with the new R12 nineT, the R12 has a slightly softer engine tune in the air/oil cooled 1170cc flat twin motor, producing 95bhp to the higher revving roadster’s 109bhp, while the cruiser ergonomics creates a machine with a very accessible 754mm seat height.

The R12 uses classic cruiser sized wheels, 19” up front and 16” at the rear but overall the styling is clean and not overtly ‘custom’ in its design. BMW unashamedly agree the R12 has been designed as a platform upon which owners can customise their machines and, with a whole host of official accessories and equipment packs available, we’d expect many to be modified as soon as they leave the showroom.

Priced £11,990 in base spec, the single seated R12 shares many of its design cues with the bigger R18. The left hand exhaust system is quite distinctive, with its stacked twin reverse cone silencers, while the modern upside-down forks and radially-mounted monobloc brakes have been tastefully designed to fit in with the traditional looks. The teardrop tank design takes its inspiration from the 1970s /5 models, while the official accessory list includes everything from machined metal parts, blacked out components, passenger seat, spoked wheels, luggage, alternative saddles and touring style windscreens.

Like the R18, there’s plenty of technology to be found under the classic lines. The standard electronics package includes two riding modes and cornering ABS, with the ability to spec up the bike out of the factory.

In keeping with the classic stripped out look, the R12 comes in a mean black colour scheme as standard, although metallic red is an option. A third livery, silver and black, comes as part of the Option 719 pack – which includes gold pinstriping, gold coloured handlebars and stitching on the saddle. Ticking all the boxes on the option sheet can see the price rise to around £18,000.

With its low seat height, wide handlebars and low centre of gravity, the BMW R12 should be a very accessible motorcycle for riders of all shapes and sizes. An A2 version will also be available, meaning younger riders looking for a retro ride will be well catered for with the R12.