BMW R 18 Roctane: an evocative design, a new example created for traveling [VIDEO]

The new BMW R 18 Roctane it recalls a construction tradition enriched by functional technological contents. The design and various details of the motorbike are highlighted in a film proposed by BMW Motorrad on Youtube.

Aesthetics and features

A new constructive example after the others R18, R18 Classic, R 18 B e R18 Transcontinental. Like the other examples of the BMW R 18 overview, it is equipped with a modifiable structure. The visible valve covers and engine covers are designed to appear outside the oil chamber, so they can be replaced.
The bike is covered with a Black paint shades are indicated as standard and optional matt metallic mineral grey e Matt metallic Manhattan. A recognizable custom bagger that brings to mind the evocative style of the brand's classic models, such as the historic one BMW R 5.
From an aesthetic, technical and conceptual point of view, the new BMW R 18 Roctane shows a marked essentiality.
A classic design underlined by the shape of the headlight with an integrated round instrument, as well as by every other element of the bike, all evidence of a profound construction experience. Furthermore, the wording “BERLIN BUILT” on the dial refers to the origin, this example is also developed in the BMW Motorrad factory in Berlin-Spandau.

It features functional technology that works together with the boxer engine, which is at the heart of the project. The same classic design is particularly distinctive when looking at the rear area.
Interesting aspects also include: the teardrop fuel tank, the double-cradle steel frame and the open shaft drive. Also distinctive is the adoption of a finish with double white piping, an optional ex works, which represents another reference to the historic boxer model of 1936. The extended position of the footrest, practically "central", is also distinctive. A position behind the cylinders to promote active control and a comfortable ride, together with the high, black-coated handlebars. The motorcycle is equipped with a double-deck seat that becomes more tapered towards the rear, to which are added a gear shift pedal, passenger straps and long footrests.
The wheel covers on both sides, the aforementioned tank and the headlight housing are developed in metal and the suspension part itself seems like another historical reference, noting a cantilever system and the double-arm swingarm.
In summary: a model set up for a type of relaxed driving and ideal for those who practice tourism, equipped with suitcases of the same colour. Compartments that offer 27 liters of space each, while for even longer journeys the R 18 Roctane can be equipped with a windscreen with additional headlights and suspended direction indicators, included in the range of Original BMW Motorrad Accessories.

BMW R 18 Roctane

Technical and technological aspects

There are three driving modes available: “Rain”, “Roll” e "Rock", just as the adoption of other functional safety systems such asASC (Automatic Stability Control) and the engine brake torque control as standard, based on safety. Heated grips, a Hillstart Control system that facilitates hill starts and assisted reverse are available as factory options.
The frame is tubular steel with a double cradle and the rear swingarm, whose design recalls that of the historic BMW R 5, includes the cardan transmission shaft using bolted connections.
The suspension part includes a telescopic fork and a rear suspension with a cantilever layout and alloy wheels of different sizes. The suspension elements have been defined so as not to have electronic adjustment, but a mechanical system is adopted with a telescopic fork and a suspension system placed on the swingarm with progressive damping and adjustable spring preload. The telescopic fork legs are wrapped by fork covers and the diameter of the legs is 49 millimeters, then the suspension travel reaches a figure of at the front 120 mm and behind 90 mm.
The braking system includes a double disc brake at the front and a single disc at the rear, in combination with four-piston fixed calipers. The front wheel is from 21 inches and is fitted with a 120/70 B 21 tyre, while there is a XNUMX/XNUMX B XNUMX tire at the back 18 inches which is associated with a 180/55 B 18 compound.

Thruster

The engine is the “Big Boxer” flat twin 1.802 cc, finished in matt Avus black metallic and with gloss black covers, recalling the historic air-cooled boxer engines. The engine is combined with star locknuts and a dark chrome exhaust system.
The power reaches a peak of 91 horses (67 kW) at 4.750 rpm and between 2.000 and 4.000 rpm the torque expressed is always greater than 150 Nm.

Video: BMW Motorrad