BMW R 12 1935 - Motorcycle specifications, reviews, photos, used

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presentation of the R 12 1935

Unveiled on February 14, 1935, at the Berlin Motor Show, the BMW R 12 was one of the world’s first production motorcycles to feature a hydraulic telescopic fork. Inspired by the R 7 prototype (1934), it succeeded the R 11 and shared its platform with the rarer BMW R 17.

Produced until 1942 with approximately 36,000 units built, the R 12 was widely used both by civilians and by the Wehrmacht during World War II. Its price was 1,630 Reichmarks.
Two versions were produced: one with a 25 mm Sum carburetor, allowing the twin-cylinder engine to produce 18 horsepower, and the other with a dual 23.8 mm Amal carburetor, delivering 20 horsepower.

Military Use

The BMW R 12 quickly became the standard motorcycle of the Wehrmacht. Approximately 10,000 units were produced for military use in various configurations: sidecar, machine gun mount (MG 34/MG 42), etc.

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Its reliable engine, shaft drive, and ruggedness made it an ideal machine for reconnaissance or logistics, from the Russian steppes to the African desert.

Image credit: D.R.

Published on 7/31/25
by Greg

Greg is the founder of Motoplanete—a website created in 2001 to share his passion with his friends and showcase as many motorcycle models as possible to his readers. Self-taught and a jack-of-all-trades, his discovery of the world of motorcycles led him to work as a photographer, rider, team manager, web developer, graphic designer, editorial assistant, and editor-in-chief.

Key facts BMW R 12 (1935) : What you need to know before you buy

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Model sold in 1935

Performance

Max speed : over 110 km/h (68.40 mph)

Specifications BMW R 12 1935

Chassis: Vehicle not capable of carrying passengers; Frame : Double cradle made of stamped sheet metal; Fuel capacity : 14 liters (3.70 US gallons); Seat height : 725 mm (28.54 in); Length : 2,100 mm (82.68 in); Width : 900 mm (35.43 in); Min height : 940 mm (37.01 in); Wheelbase : 1,380 mm (54.33 in); Dry weight : 185 kg (408 lb)

Front axle: Telescopic hydraulic fork Ø n/a; drum brakes Ø 200 mm (7.87 in); Front tire : 3 / 5 - 19 → Order this type of tire

Transmission: 4 stage gearbox , manual; Secondary cardan shaft

Rear axle: rigid; drum brakes Ø 200 mm (7.87 in); Rear tire : 3 / 5 - 19 → Order this type of tire

Motor: two-cylinder flat , 4 strokes; 1 carburetor, 25 mm diameter; Cooling system : by air; 745 cc; 18 ch (17.80 hp) to 3,400 rpm; Power-to-weight ratio : 10.39 kg/ch; Compression : 5.2 : 1

Practical information: Made in 36,000 copies

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FAQ Your frequently asked questions about the R 12 1935

What is the power of the R 12 1935?: The R 12 1935 develops a power of 18 ch (17.80 hp)
What is the maximum speed of the R 12 1935?: The R 12 1935 is capable of reaching a top speed of over 110 km/h (68.40 mph) on the track.
What is the weight of the R 12 1935?: The R 12 1935 has a a dry weight of 185 kg (408 lb).
QWhat is the seat height of the R 12 1935?: To ensure good accessibility, the R 12 1935 offers a minimum seat height of 725 mm (28.54 in).
Is the R 12 1935 approved for transporting a passenger?: No, this vehicle is only suitable for 1 people; it is a single-seater.
What colors are available for the R 12 1935?: For the 1935 model year, the R 12 is available in one color: black.

Motorcycle specifications BMWR 12 1935 An icon of the interwar period