2024 BMW R12nineT - First Ride Review!

[@marcuschild2988]

Hey TMF, I saw your YT on how much you earn from the channel and I just wanted to say. Thank you. I realise it’s a bit of a labour of love and that anyone who has generated your kind of success in journalism in the media would usually be a rich bastard by now, but alas in the world of social media, it’s the platforms that rake it all in. I just think you have such enthusiasm and are so professional that it’s easy to forget that you are just one guy not an entire production house ( and your content is way better than some channels with huge budgets). I sincerely hope that somehow you actually become a seriously rich bastard because I think you deserve it. Stay upright!

[@NakaNakaDerkaDerka]

Aussie?

[@houseofroos]

yes!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wow thank you - and as I noted, I’m not in it for the money (Im very fortunate to have enough already and know that “enough is enough”)

[@specialcircs]

Erm, speaking as someone who spent 8 years in journalism, I can tell you that no-one became a 'rich bastard' from it; that's reserved for the publishers like 'arry' from Harry's Garage.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I'm halfway there....my wife frequently calls me a bastard.

[@open_water2411]

I always think of wind blast as a built in mechanism to keep your speed in check. A major plus for naked bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true!

[@Accurize2]

My thought was wind in the “face” (helmet) was the whole point of riding. It’s like a swimmer whining because they get too wet.

[@open_water2411]

@@Accurize2 Isn’t that the most fantastic moment when you lift that visor and the air comes streaming in? Full credit goes to the open facers. (Although maybe not so popular with UK weather).

[@open_water2411]

@@jimdoar2546 I’m with you. I prefer naked bikes. The older I get I also prefer less technology too, I’d make an allowance for ABS.

[@simonr1392]

Love the look of that, especially with the green paint work and the gold forks. Nice.

[@johnlenart597]

I have a '21 R9T Pure which seems really retro in comparison. I'm sure all the after marketers are on top of it as well. At 70 I still consider it as my Hooligan bike that frequently reaches "take off" speeds. What a hoot.!!! Twin clocks are also my choice, but I'm sure the TFT's are admired by younger generation of riders. 👍👍5🏍🙋‍♂️

[@johnDukemaster]

I saw one of these in the flesh at the motorcycle exhibition last sunday in Copenhagen. Looks really good. A few years back I stood between the Pure R9T and the Speed Twin. And I went with the R9T. More exciting engine, better handling and better brakes. Triumph has the better looks though. But the new R12 looks better than the old one. But the old one looked more raw somehow. Thank you mr Flyer!

[@samhill3496]

Great machine. Styling is updated to the real retro look which I loved 41 yrs. back with my 83 R100RS which I did monster rides on all across and over North America. I own a 2023 R9T UGS which is a light feeling good handling motorcycle. Engines are much the same but the big difference lies underneath. Updated access to the airbox and the battery in the proper to me place of under the seat. Easy service and access. Exhaust ahs some things done which is subjective but I generally change mine front to rear. Seems to have a good suspension with spring updates for rider weight. All in all a very nice motorcycle. I would go for the quarter fairing or adapt a full RS to it. Would look great and be exceptionally functional. Good vid and review. Glad bikes like this are still made. RTW capable at a fairly good price.

[@JezNashMusic]

Another cracking review! I like this bike a lot, it’s very reminiscent of the old R80s and such, but with all the proper gear and a lot more ‘go’. Excellent work, as ever!

[@leeblackburn15]

Proof that BMW can make a new bike that is still good looking. Hoorah!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Is it better looking than the outgoing bike though? I miss the old air intake on the side…

[@jaguarchua]

quite frankly, I still prefer the look and character of the outgoing model.

[@andrevanduren9045]

I really like the style of the R12nineT. Beautiful retro bike, nice design. But yes, that price. In the Netherlands, the entry-level model costs €20,990 and I'm not sure if that includes handlebars and wheels 😂. Between BMW and me it will never be anything again.

[@timothybrockbank7474]

It looks stunning in that colour

[@SuperWellington1815]

Yep long term test They do customise well Option for when I want to go smaller from the gs

[@markwroblewski3821]

It's a really nice bike, I can see why it was hard to find fault. I spec'd one up at just under £20k which was a surprise, I would have expected the Shift Cam motor or the new 1300 lump in there to be honest. Cost wise I would opt for the Z900rs and add a few extras having had two in the past ( now have a R1250 rsse). For me the only thing against is the cost but it is a really nice retro, naked bike. I wouldn't say no if one came along at the right price is a few years......great honest review

[@ISeeYouOliver]

I always have a soft spot for modern classics. This is a beautiful specimen!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I totally agree!

[@mchauhan4]

What a beautiful machine. My dream bike for sure!

[@a13bkd62]

Great review and the looks are spot-on for me. The fit and finish looks excellent from what we can tell on the video. Tempting but it is a chunk of change... Cheers

[@lyndonohue3350]

Such a great motorcycle. I really like the revised styling. Looks cleaner.

[@bikegeist]

That screen is a very bold move and I applaud it. Looks fantastic.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well it’s an option - comes with dials as standard….

[@joseluisruiz8526]

Thank God@@TheMissendenFlyer

[@danpitts152]

does it have a fuel guage on the TFT?

[@hcw199]

That screen is ugly and doesn't suit the bike.

[@bikegeist]

@hcw199 🤔🙁

[@sgomez3047]

Don't forget to mention the beautiful brackets holding the front fender in place. That's the first thing I noticed when you came around the front.

[@steamixion]

Mudguard, sorry, fender, not too functional.

[@UsernameKate]

Hey Andy, I'm glad my demo went back just as filthy as yours haha! Makes me feel a bit better! Handles like a dream this thing!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Hello young Katherine - good to hear from you! How did you rate it compared to the outgoing bike? What about the price and did you find a fuel guage! (.....I'll go watch your video now for the answers....)

[@paulneedham3608]

Yes would like long term review on this bmw r12 9t

[@mitchcornett587]

Thanks for this video. I have been anxious to get a ride review of the R12nineT. Yes, to a longer ride.

[@jeremypeake]

Overheard at BMW press fleet: “make sure Andy gets a green one”

[@barryjmarling]

Great looking bike,nice classic looks but that price,na. Great video as always.👍🏻

[@martinslocombe2288]

I`m a big fan of this motor as i still have a 2012 TU GS 1200 . Its hard to find anything to critisize here I would add a screen maybe .Its just a very good all rounder which might be damning it with faint praise a bit but they can be hustled down a twisty mountain road as fast as a lot of sports bikes because of their great torque and really nice handling also with an akro fitted they do a very good impression of a Sopwith Camel .Nice review Andy .

[@ironman8fitnesspl-eire75]

Great video as usual👍👍..I have a 2018 customised Rnine t..can't justify a change to this new one 🤔great bike

[@davidr1854]

Right at the start of the video I thought, "Nice looking bike but it needs proper clocks," and then you mentioned it! Great minds think alike! 😄

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I knew that TFT would spark debate!

[@shadow-Sun]

Another stellar upload building your brand , keep them coming and thankyou ..Top Gear my arse ! .

[@Dudsy907]

Hi Andy, thanks for the early review on this one ! I'm very interested in this bike, especially the 719 option ally version. Even on video that brushed aluminium just looks amazing !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No problem 👍

[@morganmartin9286]

Great vid. I would love to see more of this bike and maybe a test on the new r12 cruiser variant.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Noted!

[@andrewf1326]

As per most comments, sadly expensive. The R12 displayed at launch with the gold tank and spoked wheels really got my interest over this very bland nineT version. In Australia however, you have to go mid spec, before you can get that beautiful gold colour combination. Once you get close to the launch spec, you are at close to AU$30k. At that price point you are in the stunning Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello territory , which I had thought was also overpriced here. The Italians would get my money I think. Thanks as always for the review. Always a pleasure to watch, listen and learn...

[@BikerTorque]

Looks awesome, love that colour

[@brettroman3218]

Love the bloopers at the end Andy👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching until the bitter end!

[@paulbrown7560]

I had a 2016 RNineT Sport with the brushed tank with weld, seat hump and high level Akrapovic exhaust. Best bike I've ever owned. Would seriously look at this when I retire in a couple of years time!

[@philelsey7639]

Absolutely love the bike,saw it at the Excel, had to say I prefered the R12 as for price I would quite happily pay it money no object it's lovely

[@danscram]

Lovely chaps over there, went to test ride the Urban G/S and fell in love with it

[@tommycooker3996]

Yes, longer term review please!

[@garylockley1001]

Another great review and what a lovely looking BMW. That green tank is beautiful and personally, I like the small TFT dash. Would like a small screen out front to help with wind blast. All in all, yet another fine looking bike from Germany, though a little pricey with all the add-ons. I'll be keeping my r1200rs for now.

[@msims1250]

In December, I traded my Speed Twin for a 2023 RnineT Scrambler in Manhattan metallic. I’m very happy with my decision. I find the riding position more comfortable on the BMW, and I like having cruise control and heated grips. I enjoyed the Speed Twin, but I’ve always been a BMW fanboy, and the RnineT solidified that for me. I’m sure the R12NineT will be a great seller for them. Thanks for the review Andy.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

My pleasure!

[@ianrobertwhinnett158]

Living in Norway,being an old Surrey lad I enjoy the scenery sometimes wishing you had a google map indicater showing where your riding. The perfect bike for the Norwegian toppography!

[@peterwilson8039]

First Comment! I agree that I would prefer the round clocks. I like the tank, as it looks a bit like the old superbike racers from the '70's.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well done on being first!

[@peterwilson8039]

@@TheMissendenFlyer When you’re me you treasure your accomplishments however humble.

[@jamesrichardson1901]

Love these. Glad they exist. Spending my own money, I'd buy an immaculately restored airhead. I am well aware that is not normal and that this is better in every measurable way.

[@merricktomlinson2447]

This bike has really caught my eye especially with the cockpit fairing. This places it towards my favourite BMW of all time, the R90S, and wouldn’t take too much to replicate such a handsome machine. Given my age and that of many riders who remember such a machine plus our (now) spending power, I reckon a move like that would be a runaway success and really put the wind up the other ‘retro’ manufacturers.

[@nandish4545]

Beautiful video ❤. I own a scrambler Ducati 800 right now. Bought it in my 20’s, now I’m in my 30's i think this bike better suits me now cause I’m getting old. LOL. And can’t deny that horsepower and torque upgrade either. Cool video mate!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@Maart3nSl3g3rs]

I’m glad I still prefer the looks of the previous model as I own one of those.

[@garyrayner3199]

Thanks, it always seems to work well for you

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

What does?

[@Kurt-fg6dk]

Yes please. Get it for longer if possible

[@garyhope0103]

Definitely a good looking bike, especially in that green. First impressions are often the best to have. When I first saw the TFT I thought it was far to small, for me especially though do think it sits well with the cockpit view, a bigger one would look ridiculous. So was very pleased you can keep the dual dials. So happy you managed to get the tongue twister right 😂😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes, it took a few goes but think I have it now!!

[@bloodknottrevelian3396]

Yes please Andy, a more in depth longer term view would be most welcome.👍

[@shubhromu]

This bike deserves a thorough TMF long term review

[@mdc-ps6pl]

Like the tank reminds me of the 60s BSA Firebird

[@scottkelly1607]

I love the bike, but I think I would prefer the retro clocks to be honest. other than that I do love that they have upped the level of electronics etc. still a beautiful looking machine. another quality review.

[@n22pdf]

Great bikes :) I had the original and I do think this looks nicer more balanced and I do like the TFT upgraded screen and quick shifter is awesome.. nice to have adjustable suspension to.. would be better with the spoked wheels but they were a mission to keep clean.. had a Z900RS and for me the Rnine was much better.. great review as always. Pete

[@BikerTorque]

Now thats a great looking bike.

[@FooWoowoo]

Dammit Andy... now I gotta go test ride this beasty. You're the reason I got my 2018 R9T in the first place. You.. monster.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sorry!

[@FooWoowoo]

😂@@TheMissendenFlyer

[@russellfletcher114]

Hey Andy, great little review as always my friend 👍 Its a strange one for me..... got no issues with the way the boxer engine looks / fits a GS or an RT but on a retro naked, nope not for me. All the very best to Mrs Flyer and your good self buddy 👍 From Russ in a very hot and sunny Boa Vista 😎

[@raycollington4310]

I like the more classic engine and transmission setup on this bike. Good to see this TMF and maybe worth checking out. We need a bike that BMW have kept the their cost cutters away from. Cheers.

[@philg7889]

Yes, like it! Lovely-looking machine. It's been a while since I had a naked bike, but perhaps the fairing option is the way to go. Like to see more Mr F reviews please...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

More on the way!

[@garyrayner3199]

I really enjoy watching your channel. I have been watching for some time now. What editing software do you use ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Power DIrector - I wouldn't recomend it!

[@charliebaker3389]

Looks great, like the little TFT, if only a bit cheaper.

[@BikerTorque]

Would love to hear your thoughts if you get one for a longer terms review

[@stewartnorton6386]

Funny you should say about not being able to find any negatives. A guy called Mark Pulling has a channel and on one of his recent videos there was a few people complaining saying why bother doing bike reviews if you say every bike is great...and I guess the answer is as you have alluded to before is that pretty much all modern bikes are great there's not really any bad points and it's more down to your personal taste if you think its a great bike or not. On a completely different note. I'm looking to buy a Kawasaki W800 this year, they do not come up for sale often on FB but one popped up yesterday in......Great Missenden!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool!

[@Don8789]

Last week I sat on the version with the brushed aluminium tank and the red frame during the annual Dutch bike show. Beautiful bike, it's like semi naked bike/semi cruiser sitting position with a bit of a reach. Seems very comfy to me as a sportsbike rider. Checked the price when I got home. Ooo my goodness. The version with the Option 719 (brushed alu) + the comfort pack is 24.625 euro in The Netherlands. All bikes and cars are expensive in the Netherlands due to taxation, but that is just crazy. The Ducati Streetfighter V2 or Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello (s version) are cheap in comparison😅.

[@garyrayner3199]

Sorry, what I meant to say is that you always seem to produce good, well edited recordings

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you....

[@peterdane9138]

Looks good. Reminds me of my old 100/7. Could do with proper mudguard though.

[@amandacatherine793]

Been waiting a loong time for this! It’s great to see you with the first crack at it, Andy. You convinced me to buy my 2017 R9T in the rare Blue Planet spec, and I’ve loved it. The question now is whether to trade… laterally for largely the same bike. I’m drawn to the cornering ABS, the option for the spoked tubeless wheels (a $3,000 upgrade to my 2017!!!) and the nice brushed aluminum & red frame of the 719. The big question is whether or not that TFT has a fuel gauge hidden in there. I would enjoy seeing a long term review. Thank you!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I did look for a fuel guage but didn't find it!

[@dacdidac]

I’ve ridden this new bike and I do like the ride 👍

[@guywolff]

Hello Andy , Yes please on the longer ride review for the R12 Nine T ... This is the one of the three (your Triunph and Kawwi ) that I would get just for the shaft drive though I wish it and the R1200R still had the telelever front end .I do wish this bike had a true rear fender. If you ever get a chance to try an older R69S with the Earles Fork I think you would be amazed how wonderful a ride that bike has ...

[@GaryFackler]

Nice review and congrats on being the first. One question: does the digital display include a fuel gauge? It's the one thing missing from the previous gen. Thanks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn't find one - and I did look!

[@LookingForEntertainment112]

What a pity. The R Nine T in my garage still makes me smile when I walk in. Definitely gone backwards in terms of looks. Excellent review as always.

[@philipTOMPSETT]

Another video in the Goldilocks zone👍🏻. I ruled out the last version as there was no fuel gauge and hope this has now been added back.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I didn't spot one onb the TFT!

[@splodge57]

I find the best, most reliable fuel gauge is resetting the trip to zero every time you fill up.

[@W56Scribes]

Lovely looking bike Andy. I for one would be interested in seeing further reviews idc. 👍

[@andrewmanahan2469]

Great video as always Andy thanks. Had the previous RnineT and always felt I was too much on top of rather than in it if you see what I mean. But lovely machine all the same.

[@chriskib1]

Great video and channel. Does it now have a fuel gauge?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I couldn't find one if it does....

[@chriskib1]

Thank you, although that's a bit disappointing!

[@TheBounty34]

Another great review. I'm a new biker and recently bought a T100, seems like the majority of naked bikes 70mph ish wind buffering, and turbulence is uncomfortable. With that in mind, not ridden the 1200 speed twin or Z900 what are the real-world benefits of a larger-capacity more powerful machine? Keep up the excellent reviews

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

For me it's acceleration and ease of effortless overtaking.....

[@georgekamunya1648]

Please do a long term review of this bike

[@ducatidave.b]

I always liked the old R9T and this R12 version looks even nicer. I'd definitely have one next to my 1250GS for summer blasts around the local lanes - price & garage space being the only limitations to prevent this......!

[@garethtemple6242]

I'm currently thinking about buying a Triumph Speed Twin, which, in the colour of my choice and the extras fitted that I would want, would still come in under £13k. This BMW looks a fanatic bike but the price and eye-watering cost of the extras which I'd probably want to add, would put me off it. Great review as usual.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

....go with the Speed Twin ;0)

[@SuperchargedLlama]

Nice looking bike that, it's a really good iteration on the outgoing model. I have to say that I personally really like that little tft, you're point about "if you want one, then this is a good implementation" (or words to that effect) is spot on I think. I like that it's an option as well, so it's not foisted upon you. I feel like BMW are really the only manufacturer that's nailed the TFT side of things, with maybe KTM second? And Honda being a crushing, distant, last place. It looks like the rear indicators aren't those horrible (and dangerous) combined units where the break light and indicators are in the same unit, as per the new R1300GS, is that correct?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Correct - and I think Triumph make the worst TFTs of all the manufacturers....

[@SuperchargedLlama]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I've not "used" the Triumph ones, but whenever I see them in a video I always think they look like a kids toy. Actually, I have used one, I took the Tiger Sport 660 for a test ride and I hated the screen, it's so slow as well, which is Honda's party trick too! It feels like BMW actually bother to give their screens the processing power that's actually needed in order to help them run smoothly.

[@matts.1758]

I can’t wait to see the urban gs/scrambler version

[@marcusrichardson3472]

I have a 21 plate R9T roadster and while I love it to bits I think this one is definitely a move on. The engine looks tidier and the back end is a big improvement. I think I prefer the tank on the original but this one looks better in your video than it does in static photos. I’d be keen to know how the rear suspension is, I had to change mine for a Wilbers. Great review thanks

[@garrypepperman]

A good looking bike and I’m with you regarding the clocks, I think twin clocks are much better suited to that bike. Staggeringly expensive compared to its competitors, but it is BMW and a decent bit of kit.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Is a BMW any better than a Triumph? I’m not so sure (being an owner of both!)….

[@leemartin-hine1598]

I love it Andy, I loved the older one too, Pity it’s so expensive with the options I’d have.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I totally agree!

[@steveparish9210]

Love the look sounds like a really good bike, a bit pricey. Thanks for the test and yes a long term would be great

[@colindeans5972]

That's a great looking bike and the paint looks fabulous. The TFT is a strange addition, albeit very neat. I'd definitely stick with old school clocks. If you secure a longer term loan, luggage options would be interesting. Thanks again.

[@dankorolyk5917]

Definitely a looker

[@Doughboy39]

Excellent review as always ,Marlow looked really picturesque, still prefer the triumph speed twin(i think)

[@Hooner77]

Nice review. For me I would take the Z900RS Cafe. Based on how I would spec one out (Green with Cockpit fairing for BMW) the difference in price is about $5600 (usd) more for the R12nineT. I also had a couple of friends that owned the original Z900 and was given a chance to ride their bikes and loved it. Ever since they brought back the Z900RS I told myself if I had extra money there would be one in the garage. Though I still prefer it in Kawaski green. My problem is I haven't found that extra money.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Always good to have something to lust after!

COngrats...first review I see about this bike... Yeah.. you must do a comparison video with your other two bikes...

[@Zippytie]

OUCH , what a lot of money , lots of credible alternatives , Triumph Bobber , second hand Rocket 3 GT would be far more exciting , and although I really do fancy a R9T , I think its not as pretty as the original , and is probably going to increase the value of the second hand ones , thank you for your marvellous output

[@ianburnett4605]

I'm thinking of getting one.

[@Germain73]

I have one and love it, top motorcycle❤

[@PatrickBurdett-y3u]

Great Bike…. Picked up mine in Spain on 24/2 and very pleased with it. Did you get Connected Ride to work? Neither mine or any other R12 in the dealership would connect to anything which is disappointing on a new release. Great review as always…..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I’ve never managed to get connected ride to work!

[@andymushlarky7819]

As per a top review, I personally love the R9T, but this is much better IMO. I don't like the dash/TFT much prefer the twin clocks, but aside from that brilliant, want one!!

[@granblogismo]

Marlow… Rebellion beer iirc? Lovely on the river etc!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Correct! A proper pint!!

[@DaveVaughan2004]

Nice looking bike. I like the tank, the green and silver works well to my eye. ATB, Dave

[@jameshales6958]

I think I saw front fork extend/dive during gear upshifts under acceleration.

[@volksmania114]

Great video and lovely bike, and yes price might be high but if looking for a keeper then definitely worth a look at. Would like to see what it handles like with a pillion on. Take care and ride safe

[@Steven-Brooks]

I think they’ve made a great looking bike. Only a few things I would change, the tft for the dials and the mirrors don’t look premium enough for the price. And the name is just a little bit daft 😊 love the colour ( glad green is making an appearance in BMWs palette!)

[@tonydare7614]

Hi Andy, nice review. Looks great and I'm sure rides fine. I'm not sure about their colour choices, the green doesn't do it for me on this bike. If I got one, I'd definitely add the café racer cockpit fairing and tail cowl. I do love the boxer engine but the question is, would you get a bit bored riding it if it were your only bike? Maybe more so than the Kawa or something more sporty.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I don’t think so - the bike is no slouch and has more character than the Kawasaki….

[@tonydare7614]

@@TheMissendenFlyer 🤔 got to stop watching your videos, I want one now and I'm on my 9th bike in 5 years😂

[@Richard-z2c8q]

Always loved the R9t and thought they were lovely to ride. Definitely look for a longer loan

[@BikerTorque]

Twin clocks for me, TFT looks OK though