BMW R 18, the new, technology-driven German cruiser

Amid increasingly sculpted and aerodynamic designs, every so often manufacturers treat us to genuine gems that delight the most purist motoring enthusiasts. A fine example is the new BMW R 18, the new and modern cruiser from the German brand, which will undoubtedly win you over with its authentic “retro” design.

To create this BMW R 18, the German brand drew inspiration from its most iconic models, resulting in a motorcycle that dispenses with unnecessary elements, showing itself for what a motorcycle is, while also playing an important role in the visual identity of the characteristic boxer engine. On top of all this, today’s technology has been added to enhance the riding experience, along with a wide catalogue of parts that lets owners add their own touch for greater personalisation.

At the heart of the new BMW R 18 sits its most important component, the “Big Boxer”, a new twin-cylinder engine that continues the brand’s tradition of fitting this type of engine since 1923, but evolved and equipped with today’s technology to become the most powerful engine used in series production. The engine of the BMW R 18 has a displacement of 1,802 cc, delivering 91 CV at 4,750 rpm, while the torque of 150 Nm peaks between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.

Surrounding this boxer engine, you can clearly see its double-loop tubular steel frame together with a swingarm that embraces the shaft drive through bolted connections. The drive shaft is, incidentally, fully exposed, which reinforces the “retro” image the bike aims to convey. Moving on to the chassis, there is a 49 mm telescopic fork fitted with gaiters and offering 120 mm of travel, while at the rear the suspension with a Cantilever shock absorber is mounted in a centred position and offers 90 mm of travel. Finally, to ensure effective braking, there are two discs on the front axle and one disc at the rear, all with four-piston calipers, not forgetting the lovely spoked wheels.

Around all this chassis you will find no unnecessary trim or plastics: everything you see is steel components, used for the side covers, the mudguards and the beautiful teardrop-shaped tank. There is a small trade-off, however, as the weight of the BMW R 18 rises to 345 kilos. As I mentioned above, and as you can see in the images, there is a good number of accessories to personalise it to your taste. It is worth highlighting that the R 18 will have an exclusive First Edition from its market launch, featuring a classic black finish with white stripes and numerous chrome surfaces with special badges.

Finally, on the technology side, it is worth noting that the BMW R 18 is not as austere under the skin as it may appear, as you will have three riding modes at your disposal, named Rain, Roll and Rock. As standard equipment it also features switchable ASC traction control, as well as MSR engine drag torque control. Optionally, there are other elements to assist your riding, such as a reverse assist to make manoeuvres easier or hill-start control.

The new BMW R 18 is now available at the brand’s Spanish dealerships, with a starting price set at 24,590 euros§h46§.