BMW Motorrad brings in first-ever R18 cruiser

MANILA: The official distributor of BMW motorcycles and automobiles in the country, SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp recently introduced the first-ever BMW R18, which comes in a First Edition trim.

With the first BMW R18, BMW Motorrad now joins the cruiser category, a model that is completely in line with the heritage of iconic BMW motorcycles in terms of innovation and design.

The R18 derives its look from popular models like the BMW R5 and moves the emphasis back to the basics of the motorcycle: pure, with hassle-free technology and the boxer engine to deliver riding pleasure.

Moreover, the R18 combines its iconic design with crisp, modern technology to establish a compelling overall theme, which provides a riding experience that is both emotional and well-developed.

The core of the new BMW R18 is a newly-designed two-cylinder boxer engine, called the “Big Boxer.” Both its technology and remarkable appearance represent a continuity of the conventional air-cooled boxer engines that have provided a thrilling driving experience since BMW Motorrad began its production in 1923.

The most powerful two-cylinder boxer engine utilized in motorcycle series production has a displacement of 1,802cc. It generates an output of 91hp and more than 150Nm of torque, and the pulling power blends perfectly with a complete, reverberating sound.

The core of the suspension in the first-ever BMW R18 is a double-loop steel tube frame.  Holding a longstanding BMW Motorrad tradition, this frame type is built with excellent production standards as well as a high level of attention to detail like the welded joints between the forged or cast components and the steel tubes.

Like the iconic BMW R5, the rear axle transmission is surrounded by the rear swingarm in genuine style through bolted connections.

Other features include bodywork that is remarkably distinguished by pinstripe paintwork, a signature teardrop tank, and open-running driveshaft, which guarantees that the BMW R18 maintains its style that is suggestive of the iconic boxer back in 1936.

The suspension of the first-ever BMW R18 purposefully dispenses with electronic control alternatives, and adopts a telescopic fork as well as a directly mounted central suspension strut with travel-reliant damping and adjustable spring preload. This assures comfort and control on different road surfaces.

The 49mm tubes of the telescopic fork are enclosed in fork sleeves, with the suspension travel measured at 90mm at the rear and 120mm at the front.  

The braking system of BMW R18 is composed of a twin disc brake located at the front and a single disc brake at the rear area in combination with four-piston fixed calipers.

Moreover, the wire-spoked wheels guarantee an extremely stylish design. The first-ever BMW R18 includes a laid-back riding position due to mid-mounted footpegs. This iconic position behind the cylinders is not only common in BMW, as it also allows an active and comfortable riding position for maximum vehicle control.

The new R18 will be provided globally as an exclusive R18 First Edition right from its debut, with a standard model reserved additionally for a lot of markets. It combines the R18 appearance with exceptional equipment features in an iconic black finish with white pinstriped paintwork.  

Other features include a “First Edition” chrome clasp on the side covers, a seat emblem, and several chrome surfaces.

The new R18 also has three standard riding modes, namely, “Rock,” “Roll,” and “Rain”—all of which are uncommon in this category — in order to adjust to individual rider options.

The standard trim also features Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and part-integral anti-lock braking system (ABS), which guarantees a high level of riding safety.

Aside from this, the new R18 is fitted with engine drag torque control (MSR). For the local industry, standard conveniences also feature reverse assist, which allows maneuvering to be easier.  The Hill Start Control function, on the other hand, aids in uphill starts.

Complete LED-lighting is standard for the first-ever BMW R18, with the headlight featuring an adaptive function for maximum visibility when cornering.

More than any other motorcycle, the new R18 provides a conversion-friendly style, with an emphasis in the early design stages of the standard motorcycle layout.

Furthermore, it is fitted with a conveniently removable rear frame and an easy-to-disassemble painted part kit.

The cable harness, clutch, and meticulously conceived attachment corners for the hydraulic lines of the brake enable convenient installation of lower or higher handlebars in connection with corresponding hydraulic lines and cable harnesses.

The belt cover (engine housing cover) and visible valve covers (cylinder head covers) are designed in a way that they are positioned outside the oil chamber, allowing them to be conveniently subjected to modifications.

The BMW Motorrad equipment range provides an optimum variety of individualization alternatives for the R18 to be flexible according to the personal preferences of the driver.

The wide array of diverse components available from the program of Original BMW Motorrad Accessories enables individual personalization that considerably changes the nature of the R18.

BMW Motorrad has also partnered with Roland Sands Design and other highly-recognized suppliers, which include US manufacturer Mustang Seat to provide varied versions of first-class hand-made seats.

Exhaust options are available as a result of the collaboration with Vance and Hines for a more emotional exhaust note and greater individuality.

The price of the first-ever BMW R18 First Edition is P1.955 million and comes with an industry-leading BMW five-year warranty that covers the motorcycle for a maximum of five years or 500,000km, whichever comes first.

Photos from BMW Motorrad

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