BMW R 18 Classic: a new tourer connected to tradition [PHOTO AND VIDEO]

BMW Motorrad introduces the R18 Classic. An exemplary tourer with a large windshield, additional LED headlights, 16-inch front wheel, pillion seat and soft bags.

Distinctive design

An essential, direct appearance enriched by other removable elements in the case of the Classic, as well as identifying aesthetic and technical aspects such as the chromatic appearance with white fillets, the teardrop tank, the metal components, the visible drive shaft and the frame in steel with double cradle structure. The chrome surfaces and the chrome plate with writing are also connotative "First Edition" on the side covers and the logo on the saddle.
The new R 18 versions will be introduced during the launch phase R18 Classic e R 18 First Edition and a standard model reserved for some markets.
A design that can be customized and reshaped, for example by removing the rear frame or by intervening on other elements to adopt customized components from the collections Roland Sands Design “Machined” e “2-Tone Black”, but also saddles resulting from collaboration with Mustang Seat or a specific exhaust system developed in partnership with Vance & Hines, as mentioned.

Technical features

The technical basis of the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 is a steel frame with double cradle structure. A structure that recalls the Bavarian construction tradition with interesting aspects such as the welded joints between the steel tubes and the cast or forged parts, also considering a Cantilever system behind it. The rear swingarm embraces the rear drive axle via bolted joints, offering an even more distinctive view.
The suspension part of the new BMW R 18 Classic and R 18 does not feature electronic adjustment options, considering a telescopic fork and a directly mounted central suspension system with progressive damping and adjustable spring preload. Recalling the historical one again BMW R 5, the fork tubes are jacketed. Their diameter amounts to 49 millimetres, while the travel of the front suspension reaches 120 mm and the rear one 90 mm.
Also visible is a robust braking system with a double disc at the front and a single disc at the rear, as well as a four-piston fixed caliper. The distinctive spoked wheels also stand out. Another fundamental aspect highlighted is the location of the footrests "in a central position", behind the cylinders, favoring a relaxed and at the same time active driving position.

Technology

Both versions come with three standard driving modes, choosing between “Rain”, “Roll” e "Rock" based on the motorcyclist's choices. There is also a system ASC (Automatic Stability Control) which can be excluded, which reinforces driving safety and controls the engine drag torque (MSR). Among the options mentioned is a system Hill Start Control which facilitates uphill starts and assisted reverse.

Motor

The twin-cylinder engine “Big Boxers” it is another connotative element of the R 18 models. The displacement stands out 1.802 cc and the maximum thrust is 91 horses (67 kW) at 4.750 rpm. More than 150 Nm of torque is consistently on offer from 2.000 to 4.000 rpm.

Photos and videos: BMW Motorrad