The new BMW R 18

BMW R18, the new Custom Cruiser from BMW Motorrad enters the scene with a unique design, style, technology and quality at the highest levels.

With the new R 18, BMW Motorrad enters the cruiser segment.

Like no other previous motorcycle, this model is fully part of the tradition of historic BMW motorcycles - both in technical terms and in design.

The new BMW R 18: the top cruiser with historical roots.

BMW Motorrad R18
New BMW Motorrad R18 - Past and Present

With the new R 18, BMW Motorrad enters the cruiser segment. Like no other motorcycle previous model, this model is fully part of the tradition of historic BMW motorcycles - both in technical and design terms. Referencing famous models such as the BMW R 5 from both a technological and a visual point of view, it shifts the focus back to the essential components of the bike: purist technology without frills, the boxer engine as the fulcrum of driving pleasure, together with " good vibes". The classic design of the R 18 also combines with clean yet contemporary technology to create a fascinating overall concept - delivering a driving experience that is as refined as it is emotional.

The most powerful high-torque BMW boxer engine of all time.

BMW Motorrad R18
New BMW Motorrad R18 - The new Boxer

The main element of the new BMW R 18 is a newly developed twin-cylinder boxer engine: the “Big Boxer”. The impressive appearance and technology reflect the continuation of traditional air-cooled flat engines which, for more than seventy years, have provided an inspiring driving experience ever since BMW Motorrad began production in 1923. Most powerful twin-cylinder boxer engine never used in the production of motorcycles, it has a displacement of 1802 cc. Maximum power is 67 kW (91 hp) at 4750 rpm. From 2000 to 4000 rpm, more than 150 Nm of torque is always available and this essential thrusting power blends with a full and vibrant sound.

Steel frame with double cradle structure and rear fork with built-in axle that produces the effect of a rigid frame.

BMW Motorrad R18
BMW Motorrad R18

The highlight of the suspension in the new R 18 is a steel frame with a double cradle structure. Its design carries on the old BMW Motorrad tradition of this type of frame. Excellent manufacturing quality and meticulous attention to detail is also revealed in non-visible features such as welded joints between steel pipes and cast or forged parts. Like the legendary BMW R 5, the rear swingarm - sporting an equally striking design - surrounds the rear drive axle in authentic style via bolted joints.

Telescopic fork with fork cover, rear suspension cantilever system, spoked wheels and disc brakes.

New BMW Motorrad R18 - The new Boxer
New BMW Motorrad R18 - Unique style

The suspension elements of the new BMW R 18 are deliberately lacking in adjustment options electronics. Conversely, a telescopic fork and direct-mounted center suspension system with progressive damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel control and pleasant comfort.

As in the legendary BMW R 5, the telescopic fork tubes are encased in fork covers. The diameter of the fork tube is 49 mm, while the front suspension travel is 120 mm and the rear suspension travel 90 mm. The braking system of the new BMW R 18 consists of a double brake disc at the front and a single brake disc at the rear, together with a fixed four-piston caliper. At the same time, the spoked wheels give it an unquestionably elegant appearance.

Balanced ergonomics for excellent control.

In line with the BMW Motorrad philosophy, the new BMW R 18 is characterized by the positioning of the footpegs "in a central position". The classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW, but also allows for a relaxed and active riding position for perfect control of the bike.

Three driving modes, together with ASC and MSR for high driving pleasure and safety as standard. Reverse assist and Hill Start Control as factory options.

The new R 18 also offers three standard driving modes: "Rain", "Roll" and "Rock" - unusual for this segment - in order to adapt to the preferences of the individual driver. The standard trim also includes ASC (Automatic Stability Control, which can be disabled) which ensures a high level of driving safety. The new R 18 also features engine drag torque control (MSR) as standard equipment. Among the other options, the assisted reverse gear makes maneuvering easier, while the Hill Start Control system facilitates hill starts.

The new R 18: newly presented iconic style, with a rigid-looking frame, cutting-edge technology and authentic materials.

BMW Motorrad R18
BMW Motorrad R18

The R 18 masterfully transposes the iconic style of bygone days to the present day, maintaining a purist design in numerous details, mainly influenced by classic models such as the BMW R 5. It is no coincidence that functional and stylistic elements, such as the chassis in steel with a double cradle structure, the teardrop fuel tank, the visible drive shaft and the threaded paint finish (available as a factory option) are reminiscent of the legendary 1936 boxer engine. The classic body components of the R 18 are also reminiscent. they are made of metal - as befits any true classic. The suspension resembles the legendary R 5 just as well. Together with the double-sided swingarm and the cantilever system of the rear suspension, the rigid frame concept of the R 5 is perfectly transposed to the present day in terms of aesthetics.

The R 18 First Edition: exclusive look with paint and chrome.

BMW Motorrad R18
BMW Motorrad R18

The new R 18 will be presented at launch worldwide in the R 18 First Edition version, with the standard model reserved in addition for certain markets. This version combines the look of the R 18 with exclusive equipment features, featuring the classic black finish with white piping paint. Other highlights include numerous chrome surfaces, a logo on the saddle and a chrome plate with “First Edition” lettering on the side covers.

Conversion-oriented design is the basis for easy customization and great customization.

BMW Motorrad R18
BMW Motorrad R18

Much more than any other bike, the new R 18 offers a design that allows easy conversion, thanks to the attention paid, from the earliest stages of design, to the basic configuration of the bike. It is therefore equipped with an easily removable rear frame and a set of painted components that can be removed without problems. The carefully thought-out fixing points of the brake hydraulic lines, cables and clutch also allow for easy installation of higher or lower handlebars, as well as related hydraulic connections and cables. In addition, the visible valve covers (cylinder head covers) and belt cover (crankcase cover) are designed to be located outside the oil chamber, making it very easy to replace.

Custom parts and Roland Sands Design “Machined” and “2-Tone Black” collections for the new R 18.

The BMW Motorrad equipment offers a wide range of customization options to adapt the R 18 to personal tastes and preferences. The wide choice of different parts available in the Accessories Original BMW Motorrad allows individual customization that significantly changes the character of the R 18. For the market launch of the R 18, two different collections of milled aluminum parts are available, made in collaboration with Roland Sands Design: the "Machined" and the “2-Tone-Black”.

Co-branding with famous brands: BMW & Mustang seats and BMW & Vance Hines “Made in USA” exhaust systems.

For the accessories and customization program of the new R 18, BMW Motorrad collaborates with Roland Sands Design and other renowned suppliers, including the US manufacturer Mustang Seat, to offer different versions of high-quality hand-made seats. No less creative is the customization potential of the exhaust system created in collaboration with Vance & Hines.

The highlights of the new BMW R 18:

  • Iconic style that blends modern technology with authentic materials.
  • The largest BMW boxer engine of all time, with a displacement of 1802 cc.
  • Maximum power 67 kW (91 hp) at 4750 rpm, maximum torque 158 Nm at 3000 rpm.
  • More than 150 Nm always available from 2000 to 4000 rpm.
  • Visible drive shaft based on the classic model.
  • Steel frame with double cradle structure made with careful processing.
  • Rear swingarm that incorporates the driveshaft in a rigid frame effect.
  • Telescopic fork with fork cover and rear suspension cantilever system with progressive damping.
  • Balanced ergonomics for relaxed driving and perfect control.
  • Front and rear disc brakes, with spoked wheels.
  • Lighting based on cutting-edge LED technology of classical interpretation.
  • Adaptive headlight system for better illumination of the road when cornering, available as a factory option.
  • Classic design circular instrument panel with integrated display.
  • Keyless Ride for convenient remote control activation.
  • Three standard driving modes, ASC and MSR.
  • Reverse assist for easy maneuvering and Hill Start Control for hill starts, available as factory options.
  • R 18 First Edition: exclusive look in paint and chrome.
  • Wide range of optional and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories, and a fascinating Ride & Style collection.

we will take you where you haven't been yet

⇒ Sign up for our NEWSLETTER! ⇐

Don't miss out on the ITINERARIES and VILLAGES most beautiful in Italy, TRAVEL and ADVENTURESTOURS and SCHOOLSANNOUNCEMENTS', the EVENTS.