If you are of an age , or are educated beyond your years , the iconic Lavaorange paint and the distinctive seductively curved bikini fairing will instantly strike a chord with you . A thoroughly modern tribute to one of Hans Muth ’ s most loved bikes , the legendary BMW R 90 S was as successful on the track as it was as one of the innovators of the sport-tourer class . The original BMW R 90 S didn ’ t try to be the most powerful , merely the best at getting from start to finish . The new ‘ S ’ is created with that very same ethos – rideability . With a nod to the seventies with that timeless style and presence , the new BMW R 12 S is bristling with the latest technology , like Hillstart control , Shift Assistant Pro , heated grips ( why doesn ’ t everyone else do this ?) as well as cruise control and adaptive cornering headlight for the ultimate night ride . But all that wizardry is kept low-key and at a glance , the look is lean and uncomplicated . With a proven powerplant that oozes character as well as performance , the R 12 S utilises that legendary boxer twin that , while having plenty of power at any seed , delivers that broad power curve that is unintimidating yet surprisingly rapid . And that timeless style …