BMW Motorrad Australia will soon bolster its recently launched R 18 cruiser offering with a new R 18 Classic bagger variant that adds key touring accessories as standard.
Distinguishing the R 18 Classic is a large windshield, saddle bags, a comfier rear seat, additional LED lighting, a smaller 16-inch front wheel and cruise control.
The Classic can also be equipped with large Vance & Hines straight pipes and footboards to replace the mid-mounted pegs.
BMW Motorrad Australia is currently rolling out its R 18 range, starting with the high-spec First Edition which launched from $31,690 plus on-road costs, ahead of the base model which will check in from $26,890.
It is unclear how much a premium the Classic badge will add, however, the brand’s local wing has confirmed that the bike will hit Australian showrooms in the first quarter of next year.
While BMW insists that the R 18 stands apart from its competitors, the R 18 will naturally rival key players like Harley-Davidson, Indian and now Triumph thanks to its revamped Rocket 3 range.
With the addition of the incoming Classic variant, BMW Motorrad will have a unique offering for touring cruiser riders, and could perhaps pinch sales from would-be Rocket 3 GT buyers.
While Harley-Davidson’s range may be shrinking, it still offers a far more diverse range of cruisers than the aforementioned makers, although INFO MOTO expects the R 18 range to further expand in the coming years.
As before, the BMW R 18 is powered by a 67kW/158Nm 1802cc boxer motor that is backed up by a strong technology suite that can be tailored via three rider modes: Rain, Roll and Rock.
Other standard kit includes adaptive LED headlights, daytime running lights, heated grips, a lockable fuel tank and Keyless Ride.
“The new BMW R 18 Classic and the BMW R 18 stand firmly in the tradition of historic BMW motorcycles,” explained BMW Motorrad in a statement.
“They borrow from famous models such as the BMW R 5 both technologically and visually, shifting the focus back onto the motorcycle essentials: purist, no-frills technology and the boxer engine as the epicentre of riding pleasure, combined with “good vibrations”.
“What is more, classic design is merged in the R 18 Classic and R 18 with clear-cut yet contemporary technology to create a fascinating overall concept – offering a riding experience that is as cultivated as it is emotional.”
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
