In this BMW R 18 review, we see if the most awaited motorcycle of 2020 lives up to the hype.
Utilising the biggest Boxer engine to come from the Bavarian marque at 1802cc, the bike marks a new market direction for BMW and the bike rightly carries huge weight of expectation.
See our full-length BMW R 18 review here.
What we like:
- Lovely finish
- Huge torque curve
- Road presence
Room for improvement:
- Odd seating position
- Heavy
- Clunky gearbox
The latest bike to join the BMW Heritage range, the R 18 pays clear design homage to the 1936 R5, the bike that made the Boxer the brand’s landmark powerplant.
Peak output is 67kW at 4750rpm with, the remarkable figure of more than 150 Nm of torque available at all points in the rev range.
All this is housed in a double-loop steel tube frame and rear swingarm with enclosed shaft drive in a clever rigid-frame look.
The bike comes with a smart suite of electronic rider aids, including rider modes, given the titles of ‘Rock’, ‘Roll’ and ‘Rain’.
Rock is the most aggressive mode, with access to the bike’s full power and torque while Roll mode is closer to a regular Road mode. Rain offers softer throttle response and more limited power and torque.
A huge range of add-ons are available for the bike, offering personalisation options aplenty.
Pricing for the new R 18 starts at $26,890 plus on-road costs, with a limited run of the First Edition package available for $30,190. The First Edition gets signature double pin-striping paint and chrome.
Australian First Editions in Australia have Reverse assist fitted at purchase, taking the price to $31,690.
