BMW R18 is inspired by the design of the 1965 R5 model and is the first traditional cruiser of the German brand in India
BMW Motorrad India today launched its flagship cruiser motorcycle in India. The Heritage-Series motorcycle is BMW’s answer to motorcycles in the cruiser segment from Indian Motorcycles and Harley Davidson. It will also take on models like the Ducati Diavel 1260 and the recently introduced Triumph Rocket 3 GT.
This is BMW’s first attempt to bring a traditional cruiser bike to India. The price of the standard edition is Rs 18.9 lakhs and that of the first edition is Rs 21.9 lakhs, ex-sh. Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group IndiHe said: “The all-new BMW R 18 is BMW Motorrad’s highly anticipated entry into the cruise segment. Motorcycling fans and enthusiasts in India have been eagerly awaiting this day. “
Design
BMW R18 is inspired by the design of the 1965 model R5 with cues taken from the traditional swingarm, fuel tank, exposed driveshaft and exhaust pipes. Overall, its design resembles that of a conventional old-school bobber that sits on a double-cradle steel frame. The frame also covers the beautifully sculpted engine that highlights the bike’s impressive stance.
Its retro look is further accentuated by a round headlight, wide handlebar, chrome-finished tailpipe, and spoked wheels. BMW will offer two variants of the R18: a fully blacked out standard version and a First Edition with more white stripes and chrome. The First Edition will also feature other distinctive elements, such as a seat badge with a ‘First Edition’ closure, a copper lettering logo on the tank, and a Blackstorm metallic paint job.
Powertrain
When it comes to performance, the R18 is powered by the higher 1802 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine displacement. This engine is capable of generating 91 hp of power at 4750 rpm and 158 Nm of maximum torque at 3000 rpm. This unit is mated to a six speed gearbox in a shaft drive configuration.
Characteristics
In terms of features, the next cruiser has a fully LED lighting setup, an analog instrument cluster, heated grips, and an optional reverse gear. Safety equipment consists of ABS, traction control, slope assist and switchable Automatic Stability Control (ASC). The ACS is complemented by MSR that prevents the rear wheel from skidding in aggressive downshifts and acceleration. In addition, it has three driving modes: Rain, Roll and Rock.
Dynamic
Suspension tasks for the motorcycle are performed by telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock unit at the rear. Meanwhile, docking tasks are carried out by dual 300mm diameter discs and a single 300mm diameter disc at the rear. The stand on wheels 120/70 R 19 at the front and 180/65 B16 at the rear.
While the segment of high-end cruiser bikes has not been very popular with the masses. However, BMW aims to attract a fair share of buyers who would definitely like to sport a premium bobber on the streets.
