Mixed by Kevin Vaughn
In 1980, BMW Motorrad manufactured the R80 G/S, a lightweight, boxer-engined motorbike that blended off-road capability with street-focused nimbleness and performance. Hence the name: G stands for Gelände and S stands for Straße, which means off-road and street in English. It was a huge success for BMW, with over 20,000 models produced. Many consider it the genesis of the “enduro” or “adventure bike.”
The German manufacturer has now revived the spirit of the R80 G/S through the brand-new 2026 BMW R 12 G/S. The R 12 G/S stays true to the formula that made the R80 legendary, now refined for the modern era. It features an air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine producing 109 horsepower and 85 lb-ft of torque, a tubular steel bridge frame with a sturdy steering head, and a timeless, purist design. Additionally, it offers four riding modes tailored for both asphalt and off-road adventures.
To enhance its performance across varied terrains, the R 12 G/S is equipped with fully adjustable upside-down telescopic front forks and a Paralever rear swingarm with a fully adjustable rear shock, featuring revised travel-dependent damping for improved stability and comfort. It rolls on a 21-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel as standard, while riders seeking even greater off-road capability can opt for the Enduro Package Pro, which includes an 18-inch rear wheel.
“With the new BMW R 12 G/S, BMW Motorrad is offering a classic enduro for puristic off-road fun,” says Markus Lederer, head of BMW Motorrad’s boxer series motorcycles. We know that numerous fans have been eagerly waiting for this.”
The R 12 is filled to the brim with high-tech rider aids, such as Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which ensures optimal grip in all conditions and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR), which helps prevent rear-wheel lockup during aggressive downshifting. Whether carving through winding roads or tackling rugged trails, the R 12 G/S delivers the perfect balance of classic design and modern adventure performance.
