Bmw R 18
The BMW R 18 was introduced in 2020 as BMW Motorrad's return to the classic cruiser segment, built around the largest boxer engine BMW has ever produced. It draws heavily on the heritage of the pre-war BMW R 5 and R 7 concept bikes, featuring an exposed drivetrain and retro styling to appeal to the American cruiser market. The model spawned multiple variants including the R 18 Classic, R 18 Transcontinental, and R 18 B (Bagger), solidifying it as BMW's flagship heritage lineup.
91 hp
Power
158 Nm
Torque
345 kg
Weight
180 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approx. 18 km/L, real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
What Buyers Should Know
Massive Boxer Engine
The R 18 features BMW's largest boxer engine ever at 1,802cc, producing a massive 116 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a direct nod to BMW's 1936 R5, making it a historically significant powerplant.
Watch for Oil Leaks
Early R 18 models have reported minor oil seepage around the pushrod tubes and rocker covers, a known quirk of the exposed air-cooled engine design. Have a pre-purchase inspection check these areas closely.
Strong Resale Value
The R 18 holds its value well due to its limited production appeal and BMW's strong brand reputation in the cruiser segment. Low-mileage examples retain roughly 80-85% of their value within the first two years.
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
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