BMW R 18 Roctane: a new model to aim for new destinations

The design is evocative as are the various details of the BMW R 18 Roctane, a new proposal after the introduction of the models R18, R18 Classic, R 18 B e R18 Transcontinental.

The motorcycle

Il classic design is remarked by Headlight shape with an integrated round tool and other details linked to profound technical experience. The wording “BERLIN BUILT” on the dial then refers to the origin. This example is also made in the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin-Spandau.
A model covered with black paint as standard and optional matt metallic mineral gray and matt metallic Manhattan shades. This custom bagger is recognizable at first glance and recalls the evocative style of the classic models of the Bavarian brand. A model distinguishable above all by observing the rear area, where there are compartments of the same color that they 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

Characteristic elements also include: a teardrop fuel tank, a double-cradle steel frame and an open shaft drive. The wheel covers on both sides, the aforementioned tank and the headlight housing are made of metal and the suspension part itself appears another historical reference, noting a cantilever system and the double-arm swingarm.
Also distinctive is the finish with double white piping, an optional ex works, which represents another reference to the historic boxer model of 1936. Just as peculiar is the extended position of the footboard, essentially "central". A position behind the cylinders to promote active control and a comfortable ride, keeping in mind a high, black-coated handlebar. There is also a double-decker saddle that becomes more tapered towards the rear, to which are added a gear shift pedal, passenger straps and long footrests.

BMW R 18 Roctane

The frame is of a double cradle tubular steel type and the rear swingarm with a design that evokes 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 developed 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 dressed as fork covers and the diameter of the legs is 49 millimeters, then the suspension travel reaches a value of 120 mm in front and of 90 mm behind.
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 results from 21 inches and is wearing a 120/70 B 21 tyre, while behind it there is a XNUMX/XNUMX B XNUMX 18 inches which is associated with a 180/55 B 18 compound.

BMW R 18 Roctane

The engine is a “Big Boxer” twin-cylinder 1.802 cc finished in matt Avus black metallic and with gloss black covers, reminiscent of the historic air-cooled boxer engines. 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. The engine is combined with star lock nuts and a dark chrome exhaust system.
The functional technology works together with the boxer engine, which appears at the heart of the project. Three driving modes are listed “Rain”, “Roll” e "Rock", as well as the adoption of other functional safety systems such as engine brake torque control and ASC (Automatic Stability Control). A Hillstart Control system which facilitates hill starts, assisted reverse gear and heated grips are listed as factory options.