The R18, BMW’s second attempt at a cruiser, is a massive boxer-twin-powered behemoth that we adore.
Since cruisers are essentially an American motorcycle design, a Harley-Davidson is probably the first motorcycle you picture when you hear the word. Because of this, cruisers from other countries don’t get enough credit for their excellent cruiser motorcycles. Japanese cruisers like the Yamaha V-Max have more power and agility than most Harleys. Additionally, Europe makes some wicked cruisers that deserve all the praise. Like the Moto Guzzi California Touring, the Ducati XDiavel, the Triumph Rocket III, and the BMW R18, the subject of this article, they are loaded with high-tech features, comfort, and premium styling.
After five solid years of development, the BMW R18 was released in 2020 to a lot of hype. Following the footsteps of the BMW R1200C, produced from 1997 to 2004, the motorcycle is the Bavarian automaker’s second attempt to enter the cruiser market. It was a unique cruiser with a boxer twin engine instead of the more common V-Twin. With the R18, BMW has gone bigger and better, and we adore it. Below are the reasons.
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LARGEST BOXER-TWIN BY BMW
Since 1923, BMW has used boxer twin engines in their motorcycles because they adore them. The R18’s big heart is their most recent design. It is genetically related to its predecessors in every way, from the iconic exterior to the intricate technical details. Additionally, it is the largest boxer-twin BMW has ever produced.
HIGHLY CUSTOMIZABLE
The ability to customize a cruiser makes it one of the many reasons gearheads adore them; cruisers that have been expertly customized are among the coolest motorcycles on the road. BMW was aware of the task and ensured the R18 was stripped down to the essentials while still being flexible. It makes a great foundation for a custom project. It can be transformed into a wild American chopper-style motorcycle or a café racer.
GORGEOUS HERITAGE MOTORCYCLE
To pay homage to icons, BMW developed the Heritage lineup. The R Nine T, a retro roadster that embodies the passion and creativity of BMW’s 90 years of design, was the company’s first product. The classic R 5, one of the first BMW cruisers designed for touring, is now evoked by the R18.
FEELS AMERICAN IN RIDE QUALITY
At first glance, the BMW R18 appears to be a cruiser. BMW’s attempt to enter the lucrative American cruiser market, where Harley has a stronghold, may be built in Berlin. The motorcycle’s performance and ride quality are glaringly American under the R 5 mythos garb. Similar to American baggers, the brake lever requires a firm squeeze.
SLICK TRANSMISSION
A good transmission is required to ensure a smooth power transfer to the wheels from the large torque engine. BMW excels in this area once more with its slick six-speed transmission. The engagement is strong and quick, and shifting between gears is simple and silent.
GLORIOUS COCKPIT VIEW
You don’t want a dull view because cruisers are relaxed beasts designed to clock up highway mile after mile. The R18’s handlebars provide one of the most pristine motorcycle cockpit views.
DELIVERS RIDING EXPERIENCE OVER PERFORMANCE
The R18’s world is centered on a casual approach to providing unforgettable riding experiences. BMW delivered simplicity rather than technical proficiency and outright speed by utilizing a century’s worth of engineering, technological, and design know-how.
REFINED EXHAUST SOUND
A cruiser’s sound is a significant component, and motorcycle riders are essentially fixated on the straight pipes’ exhaust note. The Harley V-bark Twins and rumble are absent from the R18, but it still makes a wonderful sound.
SEAMLESS BLEND OF TECHNOLOGY WITH A RETRO LOOK
Instead of pushrods, the original R 5 had chain-driven cams, which was a very high-tech feature in the 1930s. Similar to the R18, notable contemporary mechanical and technological features enable a seamless fusion of technology and traditional styling. As a result, the rider benefits from a modern motorcycle without sacrificing the classic style.
ADDED TOURING CAPABILITY WITH THE TRANSCONTINENTAL TRIM
After adding more trims to the 2022 R18 lineup, BMW must be making some serious R18 sales. Along with the standard R 18 and R 18 Classic options, two different versions—the open-road focused R18 Transcontinental and the R 18 B “Bagger”—are available.
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