(October 23, 2020) Following the premiere of the new BMW R 18, BMW Motorrad now presents the second member of its new model series for the cruiser segment: the R 18 Classic. The new BMW R 18 Classic is a nostalgic touring bike that echoes the beginnings of the great touring cruiser models. While the R 18 is very purist in style, the R 18 Classic features a large windscreen, passenger seat, saddle bags, additional LED headlights and 16-inch front wheel.



The new BMW R 18 Classic and the BMW R 18 stand firmly in the tradition of historic BMW motorcycles. 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 epicenter 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.

The centerpiece of the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 is a completely newly developed two-cylinder boxer engine — the “Big Boxer”. Both its impressive appearance and its technology reflect a continuation of the traditional air-cooled boxer engines that have offered an inspiring riding experience for more than seven decades, ever since BMW Motorrad began production in 1923. The most powerful two-cylinder boxer engine ever used in motorcycle series production has a displacement of 1 802 cc. The peak output is 91 hp at 4 750 rpm. From 2,000 to 4,000 rpm, over 110 pound-feet of torque is available at all times, and this elemental pulling power is combined with a full, sonorous sound.

The centerpiece of the suspension in the new R 18 Classic is a double-loop steel tube frame. 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. Like the legendary BMW R 5, the rear swinging arm – sporting a comparable design — surrounds the rear axle transmission in authentic style by means of bolted connections.

In keeping with the BMW Motorrad philosophy, the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 feature a laid-back positioning of the footrests – so-called “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 vehicle control.

The new R 18 Classic and R 18 also offer the three standard riding modes “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock” — unusual in this segment — so as to be able 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 maneuvering convenient, while the Hill Start Control function facilitates uphill starts.