BMW Motorrad enters cruiser segment with R 18

With the new R 18, BMW Motorrad now enters the cruiser segment. Unlike any other BMW motorcycle of recent times, the R 18 follows the tradition of historical BMW motorcycles – technically and in terms of design.

The new R 18 offers a highly conversion-friendly design. It is equipped with an easily removable rear frame and a simple-to-dismantle painted part set. Attachment points for the hydraulic lines of the brake, clutch and cable harness likewise allow easy installation of higher or lower handlebars and matching hydraulic lines and cable harnesses. In addition, the cylinder head covers and engine housing cover are designed in such a way that they are located outside the oil chamber, making them very easy to change.

The core of the suspension in the R 18 is a double-loop steel tube frame, a continuation of a longstanding BMW Motorrad tradition. Like the legendary BMW R 5, the rear swing arm surrounds the rear axle transmission by means of bolted connections.

The R 18 borrows from famous models such as the BMW R 5, focusing on purist, no-frills technology with the boxer engine at its centrepiece. The most powerful 2-cylinder boxer engine ever used in motorcycle series production has a displacement of 1802 cc. The peak power output is 91 horsepower at 4,750 rpm and 157Nm at 3,000 rpm.

The state-of-the-art LED lighting technology has been classically interpreted, with adaptive turning light for even better illumination of the road when cornering. There are no electronic adjustment options in the suspension elements. Instead, the R 18 gets a telescopic fork and a directly mounted central suspension strut with travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel control and suspension comfort.

The R 18 also offers e three standard riding modes “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock” that adapt to individual rider preferences. The standard trim also includes ASC (Automatic Stability Control, disengageable), and engine drag torque control (MSR). Among other options, a reverse assist makes manoeuvering convenient, while the Hill Start Control function facilitates uphill starts.

The BMW R 18 features a laid-back positioning of the footrests – so-called “mid-mounted footpegs”. This classic position behind the cylinders is typical of BMW, and enables a relaxed and active riding position for optimum vehicle control.

The new R 18 will be offered worldwide as an exclusive R 18 First Edition right from the start of production. It combines the R 18 look with exclusive equipment features in a classic black finish with white pinstriped paintwork.