AI
Bmw
R 12
Classic · 745 cc
For sale now29 motorcycles
- Engine
- 745 cc
- Power
- 18 hp
- Weight
- 185 kg
- Price range
- €16,312 – €24,580
- Avg. mileage
- 1,712 km
- Common year
- 2025 · 28 motorcycles
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What should you pay for a R 12?
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Based on asking prices, not sale prices. Trim, condition, maintenance and warranty still matter.
Price trend+11%
Based on price data from 5 of the past 12 months.
Used prices are trending up: the typical asking price is €2,000 higher than in May 2026.
Model family
R 12 at a glance
Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.
Displacement
745 cc
Power
18 hp · 13 kW
Torque
35 Nm
Category
Classic
Specifications
- Displacement
- 745 cc
- Power
- 18 hp · 13 kW
- Torque
- 35 Nm
- Weight
- 185 kg
- Seat height
- 730 mm
- Top speed
- 115 km/h
- Production
- 1935 – 1942
- Category
- Classic
Comparable models
Also worth considering
Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the R 12.
Generations and editions
Features and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.
2 variants
Years
2024 - present
Modern R 12 (2024–present)
GenerationThe modern R 12 is a low cruiser with the air/oil-cooled 1170 cc boxer, tubular frame and contemporary riding modes and braking technology.
1170 cc95 hp2 cyl.A2 suitable
Years
1935 - 1942
Historic R 12 (1935–1942)
GenerationThe historic R 12 is a pre-war side-valve boxer with a pressed-steel frame, shaft drive and telescopic fork, unrelated mechanically to the modern model.
745 cc18 hp2 cyl.A2 suitable
About this model
About the Bmw R 12
The BMW R 12 is a pre-war motorcycle produced from 1935 to 1942. Its air-cooled 745 cc boxer twin produces approximately 18 hp and is one of the first mass-production motorcycles to feature a hydraulic telescopic front fork, a technical milestone that would not become industry standard for decades. The shaft drive rear wheel, also standard on this BMW, was unique among production motorcycles in the 1930s. During World War II the R 12 was widely used by the Wehrmacht.
The BMW R 12 today carries primarily historical and collector value. Original examples are rare and prized by veteran motorcycle enthusiasts and museum collections. Restoration is possible but requires specialist knowledge of pre-war BMW engineering. The R 12 is an iconic piece of motorcycle history that laid the foundation for BMW's post-war boxer heritage.
- Category
- Classic
- Production
- 1935 – 1942
- Power
- 18 hp
- Weight
- 185 kg
Before you buy
What to check before buying
- Check the authenticity of components; original R 12 parts are rare and replacements are often non-original or sourced from other models.
- Inspect the frame for welds and repairs; war damage or repairs after military service are not uncommon.
- Check the carburettors for original configuration; non-original carbs significantly reduce historical value.
- Ask for complete provenance documentation; a documented chain of ownership increases value and historical reliability.
- Have a veteran motorcycle specialist evaluate the bike before purchase.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about the Bmw R 12
What does a used Bmw R 12 cost?
A used Bmw R 12 costs €19,950 on average. Most cost €16,312 to €24,580. This is based on 29 motorcycles for sale now.
How many used Bmw R 12 are for sale?
MotorMonitor now compares 29 used Bmw R 12 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.
What year and mileage does an average used Bmw R 12 have?
The average used Bmw R 12 is from 2025 and has done about 1,712 km.