BMW R 12 nineT Roadster, R 18 Roctane Cruiser Revealed Globally

The R 18 Roctane cruiser and the R 12 nineT roadster are two brand-new motorcycles from BMW that have been introduced globally. The latter is an updated version of the existing R nineT range of motorcycles, while the former is a blacked-out bagger based on the big R 18. The new R 12 nineT motorbike from BMW recently replaced the revered R nineT. For those unaware, the R nineT first arrived on the market ten years ago, and the latest model has been completely modernised while maintaining its core principles. Now coming to the R 18 Roctane, it is the newest addition to the R 18 family, which also includes the R 18, the R 18 Classic, the R 18 B, and the R 18 Transcontinental. The cruiser takes aesthetic inspirations from previous models, like the 1936 BMW R 5, which has the classic air-oil cooled boxer engine at the heart of the purist, "streamliner" style. The new BMW R 18 Roctane may be used as a cruiser, bagger, or both. With its 18-inch rear tyre, wider 21-inch front wheel, and mid-rise handlebars, the new R 18 model boasts a more purposeful appearance. Let's know more about these new offerings in this article. 

Also Read: BMW R 1250 GS Ultimate Edition Breaks Cover Globally, Gets New Features & Equipment

R 18 Roctane Cruiser

The well-known 2-cylinder flat twin engine, sometimes known as the "big boxer," lies at the core of the new BMW R 18 Roctane. The Roctane's engine, which is covered in Avus black metallic matt and with black high-gloss covers, is reminiscent of older air-cooled boxer engines. With an engine displacement of 1,802cc, the 2-cylinder boxer engine is the most powerful motorcycle engine ever produced in the series. At 4,750rpm, it produces 91bhp of maximum power. In the 2,000 to 4,000rpm range, it consistently generates more than 150Nm of torque, with robust pulling force. The dark chrome exhaust system and the star counter nuts nicely complement the black engine.

The Roctane edition is a completely blacked-out bagger, in contrast to the "regular" R 18, which is more of a classically-styled cruiser with spoked rims and liberal amounts of chrome everywhere. The side cases on the Roctane have a capacity of 27 litres each, and a roomy single-piece seat is included as standard for the rider and pillion.

The new BMW R 18 Roctane's suspension components purposefully lack electronic adjustment options. Rather, telescopic forks and a central sprint strut that is directly coupled and equipped with adjustable spring preload and travel-dependent damping offer great wheel guidance, as per the bikemaker. Fork sleeves are used to protect the telescopic forks' fixed tubes. The front and rear suspension travels are 120mm and 90mm, respectively, and the fixed fork tube diameter is 49mm. With the help of four-piston fixed callipers and dual disc brakes up front and a single disc brake down back, the new BMW R 18 Roctance can be decelerated. 

The bike also has three riding modes "Rain", "Roll", and "Rock". ASC (Automatic Stability Control), which provides a high level of riding safety, is included in the standard equipment. Furthermore, engine drag torque control is a standard feature on the new R 18 Roctane. In addition to other features, the brand claims that a reversing assist and the Hill Start Control function make navigating easier and starting uphill simple. 

Also Read: RE Super Meteor 650 vs KTM 390 Adventure vs BMW G310 RR: Pick Your Poison

R 12 nineT Roadster

The R 12 nineT continues to maintain the vintage style of the R nineT, with a classic-looking fuel tank and knee recesses. Even the side panels are inspired by BMW motorbikes from the 1970s. It also has a single-sided dual exhaust and an LED tail lamp built into the seat. Moreover, the BMW R12 nineT has LED headlamps and turn indicators as well. 

The R 12 is anticipated to come with a new 1200cc, boxer-twin engine featuring a reworked intake and exhaust, while the design and aesthetics haven't deviated significantly from the R nineT. Having said that, BMW announced the unveiling of the R 12 nineT just in time for the 100th anniversary of BMW Motorrad and the 10th anniversary of the BMW R nineT. Although BMW hasn't provided all the details yet, we can anticipate that the motorcycle will be launched in international markets in the latter half of 2023. It may also find its way to India in limited numbers before the end of the year.