BMW Motorrad returns to the cruiser category with the classic R 18 cruiser styled after the 1936 R 5, including double white pinstriping.
BMW R 18 and R 5
We’ve seen several other variants of the bike in concepts, prototypes and spy photos, so we expect this is just the first in a new line with the 1802cc boxer engine.
Spy photos and concepts
BMW Australia says the classic R 18 cruiser will arrive the third quarter of this year with prices starting at $26,890 (plus on-road costs).
The R 18 First Edition, which features classic double pin striping paint and chrome will be is available in limited numbers for $30,190. 
The initial batch of R 18 First Editions allocated to Australia arriving this year will be fitted with “reverse assist”, bringing the price to $31,690.
At 345kg dry weight, it needs reverse assist!
We also reckon the riding position looks a little uncomfortable with the inability for forward controls because of the massive boxer heads.
It will come with a range of accessories including ape hanger bars, tractor saddle, racks, pipes and more.
Highlights of the new BMW R 18 – $26,890
- Largest two-cylinder BMW boxer engine at 1802cc (click here for more engine details)
- 67kW of power at 4,750rpm and 158Nm of torque at 3,000rpm. More than 150Nm available at all times from 2000-4000rpm;
- Exposed drive-shaft and elaborate double-loop steel tube frame based on classic models;
- Rear swingarm with enclosed axle drive in rigid frame design;
- Telescopic fork with sleeves and cantilever suspension strut that includes travel-dependent damping;
- Harmonious ergonomics for relaxed riding and optimum control;
- Disc brakes front and rear with wire-spoked wheels;
- State-of-the-art LED lighting technology with classically interpreted design;
- Adaptive turning light for enhanced road illumination and cornering illumination available as an ex-factory option;
- Classically designed circular instrument cluster with integrated display and ‘Berlin-Built’ label;
- Keyless Ride for convenient functionality and activation by remote control;
- Three standard riding modes (Rain, Roll and Rock), ASC and MSR;
- Reverse assist for convenient manoeuvring and Hill Start Control for easy hill starts available as ex-factory options – $1500;
- R 18 First Edition package offers an exclusive look in signature double pin striping paint and chrome – $30,190;
- Initial allocation of R 18 First Edition units for local market fitted with Reverse assist, bringing price to $31,690.
Classic R 18 Tech specs
| Engine | |
| Capacity | 1802cc / cui |
| Bore x stroke | 107.1x100mm |
| Output | 67kW (91hp) |
| at engine speed | 4750rpm |
| Torque | 158Nm |
| at engine speed | 3000rpm |
| Type | Air/water-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke boxer engine |
| No. of cylinders | 2 |
| Compression/fuel | 9.6:1 / premium unleaded (95-98 RON) |
| Valve/accelerator actuation | OHV |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Ø intake/outlet | 41.2/35mm |
| Ø throttle valves | 48mm |
| Engine control | BMS-O |
| Emission control | Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, EU5 exhaust standard |
| Electrical system | |
| Alternator | 600W |
| Battery | 12/26V/Ah maintenance-free |
| Headlight | LED low beam with projection module LED high beam with projection module |
| Starter | 1.5kW |
| Power transmission – gearbox | |
| Clutch | Hydraulically activated single-disc dry clutch |
| Gearbox | Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox |
| Primary ratio | 1.16 |
| Transmission ratios I | 2,438 |
| II | 1,696 |
| III | 1,296 |
| IV | 1,065 |
| V | 903 |
| VI | 784 |
| Rear wheel drive | Universal shaft |
| Transmission ratio | 3.091 |
| Suspension | |
| Frame construction type | Double-loop steel tube frame |
| Front wheel control | Telescopic fork, fork tube Ø 49 mm |
| Rear wheel control | Cantilever |
| Total spring travel, front/rear | 120/90mm |
| Wheel castor | 150mm |
| Wheelbase | 1731mm |
| Steering head angle | 57.3° |
| Brakes front | Twin disc brake Ø 300 mm |
| Brakes rear | Single disc brake Ø 300 mm |
| ABS | BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral) |
Ape hanger bars and matte black accessories
| Wheels | Wire-spoked wheels |
| front | 3.5 x 19” |
| rear | 5.0 x 16” |
| Tyres front | 120/70 R 19 or B 19 (manufacturer-dependent) |
| Tyres rear | 180/65 B 16 |
| Dimensions and weights | |
| Total length | 2440mm |
| Total width with mirrors | 964mm |
| Seat height | 690mm |
| DIN unladen weight, road ready | 345kg |
| Permitted total weight | 560kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 16L |
| Performance figures | |
| Fuel consumption (WMTC) | 5.6l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (WMTC): | 129g/km |
| 0‒100 km/h | 4s 800ms |
| Top speed | 180km/h |
R 18 classic photo gallery
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com