BMW’s New Heritage Cruiser: The 2021 BMW R 18
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The R 18 is arguably the most anticipated motorcycle in the 2021 BMW line-up. It’s a European-made heavyweight cruiser built using the largest boxer motorcycle engine ever made. While it’s a celebration of BMW’s long and illustrious history and heritage, there’s no denying that the R 18 has the likes of Harley-Davidson and Indian in its sights–because a new player has entered the game.
BMW Motorrad is famous for its use of horizontally-opposed boxer engines, so it should come as no surprise to learn that the R 18 is powered by one. In fact, it’s powered by the largest flat-twin in the business: a 1,802cc behemoth that produces 91 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque. According to BMW, it’s capable of propelling the R 18 to speeds of over 111 mph.
The engine is exciting but it’s just a small part of what makes the R 18 such an attractive motorcycle. Aside from the classic styling and heritage character, the R 18 also boasts ASC (Automatic Stability Control), LED lighting, keyless ignition, a sophisticated on-board computer, and three unique riding modes (Rock, Roll, and Rain).
For 2021, the R 18 is available in two options. The basic model is available in Black Storm Metallic, while the more expensive First Edition model features an enhanced Black Storm Metallic with double striping and chrome accents.
The 2021 BMW R 18 starts at $17,495 USD / $20,895 CAD.
On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2021 BMW R 18 in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
- Price: $17,495 USD / $20,895 CAD
- Key Features:
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- Boxer with pushrods
- Open drive shaft and double-cradle frame
- Fishtail silencers
Main Specs
- Engine: 1,802cc air/oil-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine
- Power: 91 HP
- Torque: 116 lbs-ft
- Wet Weight: 761 lbs (345 kg)
- Seat Height: 27.2 in (690 mm)
Competitors
- Indian Vintage
- Harley-Davidson Breakout
2021 BMW R 18 Specifications
ENGINE |
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| Engine | 1,802cc air/oil-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine | |
| Engine Power | 91 Hp | |
| Bore x Stroke | 107.1 mm x 100 mm | |
| Compression Ratio | 9.6 : 1 | |
| Fuel delivery | Electronic intake pipe fuel injection, BMS-K+ electronic engine management with overrun cut-off and twin-spark ignition. | |
| Starter | Electric | |
| Max Torque | 116 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm | |
DRIVETRAIN |
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| Clutch | Single-disc dry clutch | |
| Transmission | 6-speed transmission | |
| Drive | Shaft drive | |
CHASSIS |
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| Suspension Front | Telescopic fork | |
| Suspension Rear | Steel swingarm with central shock strut | |
| Brakes Front | Twin disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed callipers | |
| Brakes Rear | Single disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed caliper | |
| Tires Front | 120/70 R 19 | |
| Tires Rear | 180/65 B16 | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Approx. 4.23 gal | |
| Color | R 18 Classic | |
ELECTRICAL |
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| Alternator | Permanent magnet generator 600 W (nominal capacity) | |
| Battery | 12 V / 26 Ah, maintenance-free | |
| Headlight | Full LED headlight | |
| Tail Light | LED Tail Light | |
DIMENSIONS |
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| Overall Length | 96.1″ | |
| Overall Width | 38.0″ | |
| Overall Height | 48.5″ | |
| Wheelbase | 68.1” | |
| Castor | 5.9” | |
| Seat Height | 27.2” | |
| Unladen weight, road ready, fully fueled |
761 lbs |
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WARRANTY |
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| Warranty | ||
| Extension | ||
2021 BMW R 18 Features
Machined engine housing cover
The high-quality machined engine housing cover made of milled aluminum impressively give the boxer engine an attractive look.
Optional Accessory Items Shown.
Available Floorboards
For a true boxer riding experience.
Available 2-Tone-Black cylinder head covers.
The high-quality 2-Tone-black cylinder head covers made of milled aluminum perfectly give the boxer engine an attractive appearance.
Fishtail silencers
The R 18 design emphasizes the distinctive cruiser silhouette.
Machined fuel filler cap.
The high-quality machined fuel filler cap made of milled aluminum adds a striking design highlight with its two-tone look.
Optional Accessory Items Shown.
Boxer with pushrods.
The R stands for boxers and has done so for over 95 years.
Option Shown.
Open drive shaft and double-cradle frame.
The open, nickel-plated driveshaft puts the focus on the torque.
Fork bridge.
Clean and authentic in every detail.
2021 BMW R 18 Photos
2021 BMW R 18 Videos