- Launch of R 18 Classic – the second member of BMW's first-ever cruiser line-up
- New model to follow launch of R 18 in Australia this year
- R 18 Classic embodies nostalgic style that echoes the beginnings of great touring cruiser models
- Features a large windscreen, passenger seat, saddle bags, LED additional headlights and 16-inch front wheel
- Arrives in Australia in Q1, 2021 with pricing to be announced ahead of launch
BMW Motorrad Australia will launch the R 18 Classic, the second variant of its first-ever cruiser, early next year.
The new model variant, which launched globally overnight, borrows from famous models such as the BMW R 5 both technologically and visually, shifting the focus back onto motorcycle essentials with purist, no-frills technology and the boxer engine as the focal point of riding enjoyment.
Its classic design is merged in the R 18 Classic and R 18 with contemporary technology to create a compelling overall concept for enthusiasts.
The most powerful BMW boxer engine of all time with full torque
The centrepiece of the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 is a newly developed two-cylinder boxer engine – the "Big Boxer".
Its impressive appearance and technology reflect a continuation of the traditional air-cooled boxer engines that have offered an inspiring riding experience for more than seven decades, back to when BMW Motorrad began production in 1923.
The most powerful two-cylinder boxer engine ever used in motorcycle series production has a displacement of 1,802cc with peak output of 67kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm. From 2,000 to 4,000 rpm, more than 150Nm of torque is available. It combines this elemental pulling power with a full, sonorous sound.
Double-loop steel tube frame and rear swinging arm with enclosed axle drive in rigid-frame look
A double-loop steel tube frame is at the heart of the new R 18 Classic's suspension.
Its design perpetuates the longstanding BMW Motorrad tradition of this frame type. Outstanding manufacturing quality and a meticulous attention to detail is also evident in barely perceptible features such as the welded joints between the steel tubes and the cast or forged parts.
As with the legendary BMW R 5, the rear swinging arm – sporting a comparable design – surrounds the rear axle transmission in authentic style with bolted connections.
Telescopic fork with fork sleeves, cantilever suspension strut, wire-spoked wheels and disc brakes
The suspension elements of the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 deliberately dispense with electronic adjustment options.
Instead, a telescopic fork and a directly mounted central suspension strut with travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel control and suspension comfort.
As with the legendary BMW R 5, the tubes of the telescopic fork are encased in fork sleeves. The fork tube diameter is 49mm, while the suspension travel is 120mm at the front and 90mm at the rear.
The new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 are decelerated by a twin disc brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear in conjunction with four-piston fixed calipers.
The wire-spoked wheels ensure a stylish appearance.
Harmonious ergonomics for optimum control
In keeping with the BMW Motorrad philosophy, the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 feature a laid-back positioning of the footrests. The positioning is also known as "mid-mounted footpegs".
This classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW; it also enables a relaxed and active riding position for optimum control.
Three riding modes along with ASC and MSR for a high degree of riding pleasure and safety as standard
The new R 18 Classic and R 18 offer the three standard riding modes – "Rain", "Roll" and "Rock" – to adapt to individual rider preferences.
The standard trim also includes ASC (Automatic Stability Control; disengageable), which ensures a high level of riding safety.
In addition, the new R 18 Classic and R 18 are equipped as standard with engine drag torque control (MSR). Among other options, a reverse assist makes manoeuvring convenient, while the Hill Start Control function facilitates uphill starts.
Iconic style, a rigid-frame look, modern technology and authentic materials
The R 18 Classic and R 18 transpose the iconic style of bygone times to the present day, retaining a purist design in numerous details that is mainly influenced by classics such as the BMW R 5.
The functional and stylistic elements such as the double-loop frame, pear-drop tank, open-running universal shaft and the double-lined paintwork are reminiscent of the legendary boxer dating back to 1936.
The classic bodywork features of the R 18 Classic and R 18 are also fashioned from metal – as befits an authentic classic.
The suspension is also aptly reminiscent of the legendary R 5. Together with the double-sided swinging arm and a cantilever suspension strut, the rigid-frame concept of the R 5 is transported into the modern age in visual terms.
Exclusive look in paint and chrome
The new R 18 will be offered worldwide as an exclusive R 18 Classic First Edition and R 18 First Edition right from launch, with a standard model reserved additionally for certain markets.
It combines the R 18 look with exclusive equipment features in a classic black finish with white double-lined paintwork.
Other highlights include numerous chrome surfaces, a seat badge and a "First Edition" chrome clasp on the side covers.
Conversion-friendly architecture a prerequisite for customising and individualisation
The new R 18 Classic and R 18 offer conversion-friendly architecture.
Both models are fitted with an easily removable rear frame and a simple-to-dismantle painted part set.
Carefully conceived interface points for the hydraulic lines of the brake, clutch and cable harness allow problem-free installation of higher or lower handlebars in conjunction with matching hydraulic lines and cable harnesses.
In addition, the visible valve covers and the belt cover are designed in such a way that they are located outside the oil chamber, making them simple to change.
Customising parts and Roland Sands design collections "Machined" and "2-Tone Black" add to individualisation options
The BMW Motorrad equipment range offers a maximum selection of individualisation options with which to adapt the R 18 Classic and R 18 to personal taste and preferences.
The wide range of different parts available from the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories line enables individual conversions that significantly alter the character of the R 18 Classic and R 18.
For the market launch of the new R 18 Classic and R 18, two different design collections of milled aluminium parts are available, created in collaboration with Roland Sands Design: "Machined" and "2-Tone-Black".
Co-branding with famous brands: Mustang seats and Vance & Hines "Made in USA" exhaust systems
BMW Motorrad is collaborating not just with Roland Sands Design but also several well-known suppliers for its accessories and customising program.
It has partnered with US manufacturer Mustang Seat to offer different versions of high-quality hand-made seats. The customising potential for the exhaust systems in cooperation with Vance & Hines is no less creative.
Full detail of R 18 Classic local specification and pricing will be provided in early 2021.
The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world's leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.
In 2019, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 175,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was € 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to € 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees.
The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.
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