New BMW R 18 Classic

The new BMW R 18 Classic is a classic cruiser inspired by motorcycles from the mid-twentieth century. If the R 18 is laconic and even minimalistic, then the R 18 Classic, on the contrary, is richly equipped already in the basic configuration. In addition, it is well prepared for travel thanks to cruise control, a windshield and side cases.

Shortly after the launch of the first-born of the BMW R 18 cruiser family, BMW Motorrad introduces the second motorcycle in this segment, the R 18 Classic. The new BMW R 18 Classic is a classic cruiser inspired by motorcycles from the mid-twentieth century. If the R 18 is laconic and even minimalistic, then the R 18 Classic, on the contrary, is richly equipped already in the basic configuration. In addition, it is well prepared for travel thanks to cruise control, a windshield and side cases.

The new BMW R 18 and BMW R 18 Classic: combining American style with German heritage

The new BMW R 18 Classic is made in classic American cruiser style. It was formed in the mid-1950s, but the earlier German roots from the 1930s are clearly visible. When creating the R 18, designers borrowed a lot of ideas from the legendary BMW R 5 - both technical and visual, focusing on clean lines, minimalism and the classic air-oil-cooled boxer engine. This motor is generously endowed with positive vibrations and provides driving pleasure, giving the driver the main thing - positive emotions.

BMW's largest boxer engine with high torque

The center and backbone of the new BMW R 18 Classic is the newly developed Big Boxer twin-cylinder engine with rod valves. Its impressive appearance and applied technologies are the result of the evolution of classic air-cooled boxer engines. It has been going on for almost a hundred years - since the first BMW motorcycle was shown in 1923. The largest two-cylinder boxer engine ever used in a series production motorcycle has a displacement of 1802 cc. The maximum power is 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm, but more importantly, its other characteristic is an impressive torque of 150 Nm, available from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm.

Steel duplex frame, rear shock absorber hidden from view and main drive cardan open to the eye

The magnificent motor is surrounded by a steel closed duplex frame of the classic triangular shape, which is characteristic of BMW motorcycles of the mid-30s of the twentieth century. It is made with the highest quality and meticulous attention to detail. Modern materials and welding technologies are successfully combined with classic lines and design elements to achieve high torsional rigidity, as well as good cornering control and course stability at high speeds. With a visual repetition of the appearance of the legendary BMW R 5, devoid of rear suspension, it was possible to make a full-fledged swinging pendulum with a monoshock-absorber adjustable for spring preload, hidden under the driver's seat. The driveline, on the other hand, is on display: a nickel-plated double-cross driveshaft leads from the gearbox to an aluminum rear axle bolted to the swingarm, as was the case on the R 5.

Telescopic fork with guards, spoked wheels and disc brakes

The suspensions of the new BMW R 18 Classic are devoid of electronic adjustments, but the use of quality components has made it possible to give them universal settings. Telescopic fork with 49 mm stanchion diameter, 120 mm travel and progressive damping characteristics provides good handling of bumps and a high level of comfort. As in the legendary BMW R 5, the telescopic fork tubes are covered with steel protective covers. The new BMW R 18 Classic is equipped with two 300mm brake discs up front and one 300mm disc at the rear, all three brake calipers are 4-piston fixed. The installation of spoked wheels with a diameter of 16 inches gave the motorcycle the look of a classic cruiser. Tire sizes are 130/90-16 front and 180/65-16 rear.

Ergonomics, positioning of the driver's footpegs and gas tank

In keeping with BMW Motorrad's driving philosophy, the new BMW R 18 Classic has the footpegs set in the Mid Control position, giving the rider excellent feedback and feel of the bike when cornering at high speeds. This classic stance with low wide handlebars and legs behind the engine cylinders is typical of BMW and optimal for handling the motorcycle. The teardrop-shaped gas tank was also borrowed from the 1936 BMW R 5, but its volume increased to 16 liters.

Three engine modes, ASC and MSR for enhanced safety are standard. Reverse gear and hill start assistant - optional equipment

In the basic configuration, there are three engine operating modes - Rock, Roll and Rain, which affect the maximum power, the speed of the motor's response to turning the electronic throttle and the level of ABS intervention. In addition, the ASC (Automatic Stability Control) traction control system, which prevents the rear wheel from slipping and increases the level of safety, and MSR, which controls the degree of engine braking, are also included in the basic package. Advanced users can disable ASC manually. As additional options, you can choose a reverse gear, where the reverse movement is performed using an electric motor, and an assistant start uphill, which insures the motorcycle with a brake from rolling back when starting up the slope.

R 18 Classic First Edition: black and chrome combination

The new R 18 Classic will be available in a limited edition First Edition, featuring rich finishes and equipment. It has a deep black gloss paint finish with white piping on the gas tank and rear fender, more chrome detailing, a logo on the seat, and First Edition metal badges on the side covers.

Abundance of accessories for individualization and customization

The richest opportunities to change the appearance and functionality of the motorcycles of the R 18 series were laid down during their design. A well-thought-out design with hidden wiring and hydraulic lines allows you to change the appearance of the motorcycle without compromising its technical systems. An extensive catalog of tuning and accessories, with over 3,000 items due within three years, will allow you to personalize your R 18 and give it the required qualities. Tuning and accessories were developed by BMW's own designers and engineers, as well as renowned customizer Roland Sands. He introduced Machined and 2-Tone-Black kits to transform the look of the bike.

Made in the USA Accessories: Mustang Seats and Vance&Hines Exhaust

The tuning catalog also includes accessories made in the USA by recognized craftsmen, such as handmade Mustang seats of different heights and shapes, as well as Vance & Hines exhaust systems, for which BMW Motorrad has prepared modified injection control maps.

Highlights of the new BMW R 18 Classic

• Windscreen (removable)
• Side panniers (removable)
• Passenger seat (removable)
• Auxiliary LED headlights
• 130/90-16 front wheel
• Electronic cruise control

General features of the new BMW R 18 and R 18 Classic

• Iconic styling combining classic looks with modern technology
• Largest ever 1802cc boxer engine
• 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm, maximum torque of 158 Nm at 3,000 rpm / min
• More than 150 Nm of torque available from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm
• Exposed nickel-plated driveline
• Classic triangular steel duplex tubular motorcycle frame
• Hardtail disguised rear swingarm with hidden monoshock
• 49 mm telescopic fork with progressive damping characteristics
• Harmonious ergonomics for riding comfort and control
• Front and rear disc brakes with partly integrated BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, spoked wheels
• Classic round headlight with state-of-the-art LED lighting technology
• Optional interior lighting curbs
• Classic round speedometer with built-in LCD information display
• Keyless entry for ease of use
• Three standard riding modes Rock, Roll and Rain, ASC and MSR systems
• Reverse gear and hill start assistant available as options
• R 18 in First Edition: exclusive paint finish and plenty of chrome
• A wide range of additional components and genuine BMW Motorrad accessories, as well as the Heritage Ride & Style equipment collection

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