The bike that continues to celebrate 100 years of motorcycle production.

Recently, in the south of Spain, I rode the newest generation of the R nineT, the R12 nineT, through the Andalusian mountains. It’s always been easy for me to admire the BMW R nineT. Since its launch in 2013, I’ve found myself drawn to the classic roadster that took styling cues from the R32, the very first BMW motorcycle, released in 1923.

The BMW R nineT was originally released as a celebration project for the 90th anniversary of BMW. In the past, the R nineT might be perceived as “chunky,” with abruptness in the lines leading from head to tail. BMW took cues when styling the new R12 nineT from the plethora of customized R nineTs already out there and focused on creating fluid lines from front to back in its quest for a sleeker design.

To help with this new styling is the redesigned airbox (now under the seat instead of under the fuel tank) which helps create a fluid line from the tank through the seat and to the tail. The bike also has a “Twin Pipe” exhaust system with two rear silencers delivering that throaty boxer bark while upholding the Euro 5 emission standards. The new R12 nineT has a throaty exhaust note from its 1,170 cc engine that produces 109 hp at 7,000 rpm and 85 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. It is cradled in a completely new steel spaceframe with a bolt-on subframe, which not only reduces weight but also contributes a much cleaner look to the machine.

PLUSH SUSPENSION

The 17-inch wheels are assisted by the 120 mm suspension travel in both front and rear to allow for plushness over small potholes and speedbumps. The 45 mm upside-down fork is fully adjustable with spring preload, compression and rebound damping; the rear shock is mounted via a single-sided paralever swingarm and offers an adjustable, progressive spring strut. Although I can’t say confidently that the suspension could sail over the heaves and cracks that compose our Canadian roads, the progressive spring rate in the rear does create a plush ride over speed bumps and holds its composure while riding aggressively.

Twisting our way into the Andalusian mountainside seemed like a fitting place to ride the iconic bike. The Spanish roads, however, tend to be slick, especially in the mornings; whether it was the tire pressure or the slippery roads, the R12 nineT felt cumbersome at first. The bike maintained its lines with moderate rider input and by the time the sun warmed the surface of…