I got mine yesterday and i have no regrets after owning harley baggers for 20 years. Nothing does it more justice then seeing it in person. Its a work of art and indescribable on riding it. Ill never get rid of it. I am the only one in Delaware to have one....be safe, ride hard....
I'm going with the Vance n Hines exhaust when I can get it....i do want a 21" front spoked wheel with a 19" rear spoke....i don't want the machined wheels because I want the vintage look.....i also want the side licence plate holder
I rode one this week. Really enjoyed it and it’s basically the bike I would buy if I wanted a Harley in my later years . Not really my kind of bike to purchase however but beautifully finished. Loads of torque too! My dealer told me that they do a more expensive blacked out version with different exhausts. It’s £30,000 however.
I think BMW got the inspiration for this from their museum. Those cylinders remind me of the BMW radial aero engines, beautiful. Be great to see the quality materials and simpler design filter down to the non-Hardly competing range.
Brit living in Rhode Island, US. On the subject of strict noise laws effecting exhaust note. Our village has a sign up the road asking motorcyclists not to enter with modified or straight through exhausts- which is 100% completely ignored. My last bike over there was a Yamaha XS650 US Custom.... with straight through pipes. Apparently my dog would go nuts when I got within 7miles (sorry, freedom measurements) of the house.
Took that exact bike out for a spin today in torrential rain. Have to say it put a big smile on my face. Perfect balance, nice smooth power and stunning to look at.
I've not cleaned mine in 800 miles other than a polish on the tank and shield. It's a pure motorcycle, a riders bike. Not many of those made these days.
-Beautifully composed and edited videography & infectious enthusiasm . . . your journalism is a pleasure. I love the countryside looks you do. The contrast of machine against lush nature is striking and does very good service to the display of the bikes.
I have to say I was very critical how the ballon fish tail exhaust looked like on the bike when I saw pictures of it and how the cylinder heads looked just too big and out of proportion. But when I saw the bike in person today, wow! It looked breathtaking and the exhaust and cylinders blended so well with the overall style of the bike.
I'm in Australia & waiting on mine to arrive!!! I can't wait!😍🤤 Owning 2 boxer BM's I can say they are extremely comfortable to ride over long distances regardless of what other cruiser riders will say, without having ridden one! Upwards of 500km/310 miles a day is a doddle. Nice short review & I'll wait for your extended version. Cheers from "Down Under"👍🏻🇦🇺
That’s a fantastic review Motobob, been watching the development of this bike from when it was announced....my one arrives in December and i cant wait. Ive been used to riding Harleys with forward controls and i think the R18 is just different and not an issue. I have tested the R18 and it rides beautifully.....certainly makes me smile. Thanks for the brilliant first impression, kind regards.
Hi Trevor, TBH i didnt scrap the pegs once, i knew it was possible but i guess being aware of this helps. I didnt really hold back either but the main thing its a bike to go out on and relax and just cruise. Please try it you’ll see, all the idiosyncrasies are all forgiving. I have my test ride video coming out soon, take a look. Kind regards.
I own the Classic version. Love it. One flaw. Wind buffeting. I tried three different windscreens of varying heights with no major improvement. Then, I added wind deflectors on the forks from Memphis Shades ($99). Now I'm thrilled and the deflectors look good. Yes, the helmet and body buffeting was coming from below the windscreen. Fixed.
Don't worry about the lack of fuel gauge - go by mileage on the trip meter, it's easy and accurate, and when it's your bike, you know you can rely on it.
Remember, that 91HP Figure is at the crank. Shaft drive losses can equate from 15 to 25% loss to the rear wheel. And for anyone saying "only 91hp from 1800cc?!" yeah that's how big twin engines work. They make ass tons of torque at low RPM and dont rev high. Revving high is where you get HP, but you sacrifice low end torque. Cruisers need low end torque for good cruising.
@@motobob Cycleworld's dyno is notoriously bad, and cant be used as reliable reporting. they've had many cases of inaccurate reporting. Personally I'd wait till a tuner gets a hold of the bike to get an accurate dyno number.
Thanks great review so refreshing to see something besides Harley-Davidson engine upgrades to make it go my problem that's a long distant or no faring no bags no fuel but all on the lock
The left rock is characteristic to any Boxer engine, my GS rocks left but not as much as you showed on the R18. My 2017 Goldwing rocks left too, but very, very little.
Pictures and videos just Don’t do the R18 justice . In real life it’s captivating and you just keep looking at it and finding more amazing quality BMW features … so much so that I had to buy one and I can’t get the smile of my face
Why would BMW, a company that makes bikes that are too big and too expensive, copy Harley Davidsons that are too big and too expensive?🤔 Seems to me I'd always worry on this bike that I'd be taken for a fool.😬 For $20,000 my big bore of choice would be the Yamaha VMAX or the Triumph Rocket III; either of which would undoubtedly eat the Beemer for lunch.😘 Have any of you, BTW, checked out Vermont vlogger Jedz Moto's modified VMAX? A big bore pavement ripper that can corner like a Rocket III.🤭
Not sure how the silencers got the green light, they'd have to go, but that aside, overall looks nice. Think it'll be a rare sight on the road though, can't see many buyers
Hello Bob, always like your reviews, unlike some reviewers you have good technical knowledge and it seems you usually take the trouble to read the manual or maybe get an explanation from the shop about how a bike operates. So many reviewers don't do this and as a result make repeated mistakes or simply don't know all the controls etc. I think the R18 looks great though possibly the width might be a problem on our UK roads, especially in towns. I get that it's a cruiser but even so you have to go through towns on almost every ride at some stage in this country. Hard to understand why there's no cruise control (on a cruiser!) or fuel gauge, but what do you expect for a lousy £20 large? I get the stripped down styling idea, which in general I like, but those two items don't detract from that. Triumph manage to include a fuel gauge on their single clock models like the Bobber etc. Would I buy one? Possibly yes as I actually prefer the look and intended riding style of this to the R3, which I regard much more as a naked muscle bike and not a retro style cruiser. Must be hard to hang on to an R3 if you really give it some wrist and it encourages that sort of riding, whereas the R18 encourages laid back gentle cruising. As for forward controls, they are an abomination for several reasons and not missed though I understand why many Americans like them and see their omission here as a potential deal breaker. But that's cos they have vast long roads where you have nothing to do for huge mileages, which we don't. People who claim to like forwards, in the UK or Europe, do so essentially as a triumph of fashion over function I think. They render a bike much more difficult to control, especially in towns and traffic.
I agree! The worst thing is when you go over a pothole as you can't really lift yourself out of the seat that easily. But I get that having mid controls with some dumb highway pegs gives you the option to stretch out the legs on a proper long ride. It's just forward controls that I don't get on that well with. Thanks for the kind words re the review - much appreciated!
There's a good interview with one of the BMW execs where they admit that with that bike, it was the wrong engine. Too small in capacity and therefore low-rev torque to tempt US bikers away from their Harleys. That's exactly why they came back with this 1800. I'd also argue this is a much better looking bike
It was probably a fun exercise for the BMW engineers, but ultimately it's a show bike? If the vibes are that bad, and there's no cruise control (on a "cruiser") and you can't go feet forward... it's a weekend toy! Which I'm not saying is a bad thing, just not a serious thing. Harley have nothing to worry about. Another great vid Bob! 👍
Spot on Steve. No real performance, it's something to potter about on looking at your own reflection in shop windows. This is pretty much Goldwing bagger money and I'd take that instead any day.
The low slung seat doesn't look quite right to me, a springer seat with a more situp'n'beg position like it's R5 inspiration would be better, in looks and for the foot peg position.
As I said it on Ur Instagram post about this bike I'm happy to see BMW making an Uber Boxer engine! My first motorcycle was an ex BMW R1100S and I have a soft spot for the boxer engine configuration! I know the riding position is a non issue. As U said Goldwing Guys have been munching big miles for decades with no complaints!! Now back to the R18 I think yes not having a cruise control is a big mistake! Especially when U can get one on the S1000RR?! And I know that the BMW wanted to make it as authentic as possible all the looks like metal is metal but 350kg is a bit to much but then I know that BMW are very good at hiding the weight of their bikes!! So once above 10 miles weight won't be an issue!! And for the parking well one will need to get the reverse gear! Or alweys remember to back your bike in to a parking spot!! I want to test ride the R18 to compare it with my Big Block Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400. A bike that is very similar to it with transverse V-twin and shaft drive 3 power maps veloce (sport) turismo (normal) and pioggia (rain) tracion control and cruise control(1-0 for the Moto Guzzi) but no reverse gear (Guzzi 1-1 BMW) but my Flying Hippo is 315KG kerb weight so a bit down on the BMW but I recon it won't make that much difference. What will make the difference is the Guzzi is making more power (5bhp) and can rev to 7000rpm but has less torque 122NM at 2750rpm so much less then the BMW 168NM. The interesting thing I tested the HD Fat Bob 114 witch has similar torque as the BMW and my Guzzi pulls harder on acceleration and roll on.
Reverse gear is a must on this bike - when you're pushing the bike backwards into a parking spot or whatever, it's difficult to get close to the centre of gravity because of the bars and the cylinders of course. Combined with the weight it's definitely tricky to push around. Definitely go and test one if you can though! I'd love to hear what you think of it :)
Unfortunately, it still sounds better that my R3 Rocket lol. Aftermarket needed for sure..... love the R18. Keep this in mind if my Mrs allows a second ride.
The riding position is NOT like the Goldwing. I’ve ridden both. Seat height on GW is 29.3”. Seat height in R18 is 27”. Seat on the R18 is also quite bad and uncomfortable. Engine vibrates a lot.
I really think that’s the bike for me. The bobber seat and the leg rests seem to solve the riding position issues. At least for me The bike is beautiful and most importantly SIMPLE Motor, wheels, bars and a seat. That’s all a bike needs to be.
Comparing this one with the goldwing is just a bmw marketing excuse. You should remember that you sit far back on the gold wing from the engine. So you're shin is not as much close on the goldwing as here. That makes a lot of difference I think
so i sat on one last week, cant legally ride it here in the us yet although ive been for almost a year, and i like the floorboard better than the pegs. with the pegs i felt that my feel kept slipping forward. I would love to ride it. That engine is beautiful, but i dont think its the best fitting sound for a cruiser. i think more burbly sound fits a cruiser better but thats just me.
Thanks. I'm waiting for the R18/2 and bagger versions. That's when the platform will start to get interesting. This should do well in the US as the dissatisfaction with Harley grows but Indian may be the company to watch as they build upon their PowerPlus 108 engine. BTW, you can get after market highway pegs for the Goldwing like the Kuryakyn Ergo II Footpegs.
It is a work of art. Always been a Harley rider but wouldn't bat an eyelid to jump on that. I would imagine the powers that be at Harley are just nonchalantly chomping on their donuts saying "meh!" 😅 But they should be a bit more concerned about the market as a whole. BMW don't do things on a whim, they're German, so that means they're meticulous. Just had a thought, could you imagine if BMW decided to do a v twin in that frame with those pots?! Woah! 😮👀😏
Great review, as usual Bob. Now, what about footpeg drag? Zach, now of Revzilla's Daily Ride fame, experienced that as a major issue, even with rather mild leans.
Cheers FR! I did mention briefly the ground clearance, but tbh I didn't find it too much of an issue for general easy riding. Maybe that will change if I can get one for a bit longer and do some more extensive routes
Cheers mate, I'd prob pick the rocket too for the same money. But I think they're aiming at a less techy, more heritage market with this bike so hopefully it'll sell alright anyway
MOTOBOB Yes, saw your actual ride-review on the new R3... I already owned a 2015 Roadster, which is still quite lovely in it’s way, and was on the fence about purchasing the new iteration... your review helped push me along and couldn not be happier with the purchase, as the damn thing is near to a sport-bike vs the Roadster... two completely different riding experiences...
@@joerocket3rider603 great to hear you're enjoying it - I'm actually trying to get a press bike for a bit longer because I only rode it for a couple of hours. hopefully soon! one of my favourite bikes this year easily
Great review as always dude. I've been eagerly anticipating you thoughts. Maybe its just me, but you didn't seem super excited about the bike apart from its obvious visual appeal, which is undeniable. Did I miss read that, did it move you? Or is it simply that it does what its meant to do without drama?
Fair question... it was a short ride and I was just concentrating on getting the video in the bag. I need to borrow one for a bit longer and just go and get lost on it I think...
I guess one question of this bike would be why is it 340kg? Not that long ago, a 1200-1300cc bike would be tipping the scales around 240kgs! An extra 100kgs is a HUGE amount of extra weight. The service intervals of @6000 miles are strangely frequent for what is an understressed engine nowadays. As usual, the first thing to go would be that exhaust 'building' that's tacked on. Euro 5 thanks! Those brake and clutch master cylinders look cheap-chrome and nasty! The bike as a whole is pretty nicely styled but I don't think I could ever buy one (money issues not withstanding!)
Compared to a similar displacement car the exhaust would be as bulky as the BMW’s engine lol !! In real terms I think they’ve kept size down. The 6,000 mile (10.000km) service interval does seem frequent, but access to valves, cam chains etc should be so simple it hopefully keeps service costs to a minimum..
Excellent video (as normal) . This bike looks like a work of art, I was surprised it only has 90 BHP, but I don't guess that's what this bike is really about. Personally I prefer Triumph's Rocket 3 take on the ridiculously large engined cruiser bike. You can get cruiser pegs on a Rocket 3, along with cruise control, more power than you really need and the triple sound. Triumph do need to do the reverse gear thing like this and the Gold Wing have. Apart from me not having a spare £20K and a suitable garage for a Rocket 3, pushing 320 Kg (wet guesstimate) of Rocket 3 backwards is a bit off putting.
Thanks KH! Agree that 90hp is irrelevant. Revvy bikes have their place, but there's something to be said for an engine that lays down dollops of torque at just over idle. All my riding in London has taught me that! For the price I'd probably prefer the Rocket 3 too, but I think the R18 is aimed at a different market. They're really going after that US Harley customer who goes in for the chrome and aftermarket parts. I'm looking forward to what comes next after this First Edition! A proper big faired cruiser would work with this engine.
@@motobob "chrome" . I like looking at chrome, not sure I want to be a slave to having to polish it all. So I'll just admire other people's efforts at keeping chrome shiny :)
Hey Bob, I still can’t get over that it’s 50kg heavier than a Rocket 3 but great review. On another topic spotted a Beeline Moto on the R18s bars are you going to do a review?
MOTOBOB Great I look forward to seeing your take. I like mine but I do wish its turn by turn directions were more reliable they’re usually right but not always plus why doesn’t the Beeline App provided route options like Google Maps to avoid traffic, come on Beeline it’s 2020.
A great review of the great looking R 18! I really enjoy your approach to your reviews, very positive and honest. I can not wait for more reviews of this bike, for I am considering the purchase of one. I do agree that a fuel gauge is really a must for this bike. Warning lights are just not as accurate for what one needs to know. Great video and great ride! Take care until the next video! Peace.
Nice review Rob, can this be compared to the Triumph Rocket 3? More of a styling and design exercise than an actual bike to use daily or that often. I guess this would be a ‘third’ bike if you were luckily enough to own a few bikes?
cylinders just centimeters above your foot will transfer heat big time specially in slow traffic warm hot days.Another minus clearance almost all reviewers were scraping foot pegs even on moderate bends.BMW should of made this 2inch higher seat.Not sure 20k bike that will toast my feet and I can't ride on twisties faster then snail pace... If you like to point and ride and have small feet then its fine I guess...
@@robinator3202 was just riding with a guy with no fuel gauge. He ran out of gas! All his previous bikes had no fuel gauge so he was used to that. Didn't help him this time. No excuse not to have a fuel gauge these days, especially when the manufacturer chooses to have lots of other questionalable high tech.
@@michaeljkasnter I tend to agree about the Wing being the long distance preference. Personally, I could ride my little cruiser I had for a while longer and with more comfort than my Gold Wing I had for thirty years. I put a pack behind my back and could lean back in more comfort than the Wing. Now, I have an adventure bike and sport tourer that I cannot ride anything close to the same distances as the little cruiser I had.
I got mine yesterday and i have no regrets after owning harley baggers for 20 years. Nothing does it more justice then seeing it in person. Its a work of art and indescribable on riding it. Ill never get rid of it. I am the only one in Delaware to have one....be safe, ride hard....
I put my deposit down, have to wait sometime in November for delivery. Did you stick with the stock exhaust? I went with beach bars and solo seat.
I'm going with the Vance n Hines exhaust when I can get it....i do want a 21" front spoked wheel with a 19" rear spoke....i don't want the machined wheels because I want the vintage look.....i also want the side licence plate holder
Enjoy chaps!
I rode one this week. Really enjoyed it and it’s basically the bike I would buy if I wanted a Harley in my later years . Not really my kind of bike to purchase however but beautifully finished. Loads of torque too! My dealer told me that they do a more expensive blacked out version with different exhausts. It’s £30,000 however.
I’d love one of those in my garage, it’s a stunner and I even thought the exhaust note sounded good. BMW have got another winner in their lineup 👍
I think BMW got the inspiration for this from their museum. Those cylinders remind me of the BMW radial aero engines, beautiful. Be great to see the quality materials and simpler design filter down to the non-Hardly competing range.
Was only when I saw it in the flesh sat on really appreciated the detail that's gone into this bike absolutely stunning
Brit living in Rhode Island, US. On the subject of strict noise laws effecting exhaust note. Our village has a sign up the road asking motorcyclists not to enter with modified or straight through exhausts- which is 100% completely ignored. My last bike over there was a Yamaha XS650 US Custom.... with straight through pipes. Apparently my dog would go nuts when I got within 7miles (sorry, freedom measurements) of the house.
You deserve more subscribers, dude, this stuff is great. Not to mention that the camera work and production quality is out of this world.
Took that exact bike out for a spin today in torrential rain. Have to say it put a big smile on my face. Perfect balance, nice smooth power and stunning to look at.
This is a 80/20 motorcycle!!! 80% cleaning and staring,20% ridding it
😄😄
Actually it looks pretty easy to clean.
Haha.. hilarious.. nailed it..😅😅🤟
@Trevor Johnson you clearly don't know the Harley riders I do lmao
I've not cleaned mine in 800 miles other than a polish on the tank and shield.
It's a pure motorcycle, a riders bike.
Not many of those made these days.
-Beautifully composed and edited videography & infectious enthusiasm . . . your journalism is a pleasure. I love the countryside looks you do. The contrast of machine against lush nature is striking and does very good service to the display of the bikes.
The only thing I don't like is the tail pipes. Otherwise it looks incredible. A great alternative to HD and Indian.
Yep
I have to say I was very critical how the ballon fish tail exhaust looked like on the bike when I saw pictures of it and how the cylinder heads looked just too big and out of proportion. But when I saw the bike in person today, wow! It looked breathtaking and the exhaust and cylinders blended so well with the overall style of the bike.
Sat on it yesterday!!! STUNNING Motorcycle!!! No Cruise Control is a deal breaker and scraping pegs is not my thing!!!! But WOW is it Beautiful!!!!!!!
Mine will be delivered tomorrow. It does sports Cruise control.
It's available as an Option.
I'm in Australia & waiting on mine to arrive!!! I can't wait!😍🤤 Owning 2 boxer BM's I can say they are extremely comfortable to ride over long distances regardless of what other cruiser riders will say, without having ridden one! Upwards of 500km/310 miles a day is a doddle. Nice short review & I'll wait for your extended version. Cheers from "Down Under"👍🏻🇦🇺
Enjoy AD! I'm sure it'll be a great ride in the long run. Got to say it's super smooth once you get into 5th adn 6th. All day comfort
How much did they demand for you to pay for this R18 in Australia? Over 35 grand?
Steven Campbell $23,850 US or €20,351!
Was patiently waiting for you to review this bike...once again an excellent in-depth review with beautiful videography to boot. Kudos
Great reviewing again. Really good to find someone who knows how to provide good reviews both verbally and visually.
Maybe the best looking bike made for a decade
That’s a fantastic review Motobob, been watching the development of this bike from when it was announced....my one arrives in December and i cant wait. Ive been used to riding Harleys with forward controls and i think the R18 is just different and not an issue. I have tested the R18 and it rides beautifully.....certainly makes me smile. Thanks for the brilliant first impression, kind regards.
Cheers Beans! Hope you enjoy the bike when it arrives 👍
Thank you@@motobob
Hi Trevor, TBH i didnt scrap the pegs once, i knew it was possible but i guess being aware of this helps. I didnt really hold back either but the main thing its a bike to go out on and relax and just cruise. Please try it you’ll see, all the idiosyncrasies are all forgiving. I have my test ride video coming out soon, take a look. Kind regards.
@Trevor Johnson hi mate my first impressions vid is up now sir, enjoy.
I own the Classic version. Love it. One flaw. Wind buffeting. I tried three different windscreens of varying heights with no major improvement. Then, I added wind deflectors on the forks from Memphis Shades ($99). Now I'm thrilled and the deflectors look good. Yes, the helmet and body buffeting was coming from below the windscreen. Fixed.
At what rider heights does the windshield buffet?
@@matmcisaac6154 I edited my previous post. Worth reading.
@@boxofmoles4057thanks. I saw some deflectors last night on an R18 at bike night
Great review as ever Rob, nice one
I like the way that when you start it up it makes approaching cars disappear. I'd pay 20 grand for that alone.
Try the Rocket R3 - also good for making cars disappear! lol.
@@JetCooper3D Lol. Although sucking them into the air intake isn't the same as making them disappear
Don't worry about the lack of fuel gauge - go by mileage on the trip meter, it's easy and accurate, and when it's your bike, you know you can rely on it.
I actually love the look of the fishtail exhausts, something different from all current bikes for sure.
Sounds good on the gas too eh?
Sounds amazing, yesterday had a test ride.
Nice!
Same I love the fishtail exhaust. I will be buying one before year’s end.
The reverse is like a Goldwing's, but just like the older ones. My 1994 GL1500's reverse uses the starter motor when running in neutral as well.
20k and no fuel gauge! Nice bike, but that's taking the piss.
Good, more available for those who appreciate it. By the way it doesn't wipe your a** either. 😮
Beautiful bike with that '40s look you will never forget
Remember, that 91HP Figure is at the crank. Shaft drive losses can equate from 15 to 25% loss to the rear wheel.
And for anyone saying "only 91hp from 1800cc?!" yeah that's how big twin engines work. They make ass tons of torque at low RPM and dont rev high. Revving high is where you get HP, but you sacrifice low end torque.
Cruisers need low end torque for good cruising.
There’s a cycle world vid of it on the dyno and it made about 81hp at the rear IIRC
ua-cam.com/video/y8pwdSViUbk/v-deo.html
@@motobob Cycleworld's dyno is notoriously bad, and cant be used as reliable reporting. they've had many cases of inaccurate reporting.
Personally I'd wait till a tuner gets a hold of the bike to get an accurate dyno number.
Thanks great review so refreshing to see something besides Harley-Davidson engine upgrades to make it go my problem that's a long distant or no faring no bags no fuel but all on the lock
The left rock is characteristic to any Boxer engine, my GS rocks left but not as much as you showed on the R18. My 2017 Goldwing rocks left too, but very, very little.
That was a Quality video! I’m not a cruiser fan but I really like this bike
Thanks mate! Glad you enjoyed
Singularly the most beautiful motorcycle I have ever seen
Good heavens that rear brake master cylinder is lush. How often do you see those detailed?!
(also, what is wrong with me)
🤷♂️
Great vid, beautiful machine but I find myself thinking “close but no cigar”...
It’s a great looking bike 😎👌🏼
Second opinion; 🤣 🤢🤮
Like every thing but the muffler .
Pictures and videos just Don’t do the R18 justice . In real life it’s captivating and you just keep looking at it and finding more amazing quality BMW features … so much so that I had to buy one and I can’t get the smile of my face
It looks awesome. I would be waiting for a day 2 model though, if I had the money and inclination to buy such a bike. Great review pal!
Nice intro. Look forward to seeing a longer review. 👍
Cheers GT!
Like the way you introduce the bike. Great job.
Why would BMW, a company that makes bikes that are too big and too expensive, copy Harley Davidsons that are too big and too expensive?🤔
Seems to me I'd always worry on this bike that I'd be taken for a fool.😬
For $20,000 my big bore of choice would be the Yamaha VMAX or the Triumph Rocket III; either of which would undoubtedly eat the Beemer for lunch.😘
Have any of you, BTW, checked out Vermont vlogger Jedz Moto's modified VMAX? A big bore pavement ripper that can corner like a Rocket III.🤭
The Goldwing NON DCT model uses the Starter Motor like the R18
My favorite brand my favorite bike 😍😍😍
Not sure how the silencers got the green light, they'd have to go, but that aside, overall looks nice. Think it'll be a rare sight on the road though, can't see many buyers
Why so.. Too pricey?
I mean this is the First Edition, so hopefully more bikes will follow with more accessible prices
@@Jon_Yale yep I don't think there's too many buyers around currently willing to spend/borrow 20k on such a niche product
@@coops6621 Yeah fair, but Harley's are that kinda money and there is definitely a market for those.
Hello Bob, always like your reviews, unlike some reviewers you have good technical knowledge and it seems you usually take the trouble to read the manual or maybe get an explanation from the shop about how a bike operates. So many reviewers don't do this and as a result make repeated mistakes or simply don't know all the controls etc.
I think the R18 looks great though possibly the width might be a problem on our UK roads, especially in towns. I get that it's a cruiser but even so you have to go through towns on almost every ride at some stage in this country.
Hard to understand why there's no cruise control (on a cruiser!) or fuel gauge, but what do you expect for a lousy £20 large? I get the stripped down styling idea, which in general I like, but those two items don't detract from that. Triumph manage to include a fuel gauge on their single clock models like the Bobber etc.
Would I buy one? Possibly yes as I actually prefer the look and intended riding style of this to the R3, which I regard much more as a naked muscle bike and not a retro style cruiser. Must be hard to hang on to an R3 if you really give it some wrist and it encourages that sort of riding, whereas the R18 encourages laid back gentle cruising.
As for forward controls, they are an abomination for several reasons and not missed though I understand why many Americans like them and see their omission here as a potential deal breaker. But that's cos they have vast long roads where you have nothing to do for huge mileages, which we don't. People who claim to like forwards, in the UK or Europe, do so essentially as a triumph of fashion over function I think. They render a bike much more difficult to control, especially in towns and traffic.
I agree! The worst thing is when you go over a pothole as you can't really lift yourself out of the seat that easily. But I get that having mid controls with some dumb highway pegs gives you the option to stretch out the legs on a proper long ride. It's just forward controls that I don't get on that well with.
Thanks for the kind words re the review - much appreciated!
Per Hap
Not really! They actually have highway foot rests! A couple of other mistakes too! Pretending to have technical knowledge!
They made a 1200 cruiser years ago (Pierce Brosnan/James Bond) which never really sold, interesting if this will ?
There's a good interview with one of the BMW execs where they admit that with that bike, it was the wrong engine. Too small in capacity and therefore low-rev torque to tempt US bikers away from their Harleys. That's exactly why they came back with this 1800. I'd also argue this is a much better looking bike
It was probably a fun exercise for the BMW engineers, but ultimately it's a show bike? If the vibes are that bad, and there's no cruise control (on a "cruiser") and you can't go feet forward... it's a weekend toy! Which I'm not saying is a bad thing, just not a serious thing. Harley have nothing to worry about. Another great vid Bob! 👍
Spot on Steve. No real performance, it's something to potter about on looking at your own reflection in shop windows. This is pretty much Goldwing bagger money and I'd take that instead any day.
The exhaust is offputting but it looks great none the less.
Absolutely agree that lack of a fuel gauge is an inexcusable omission on a bike this premium !
The low slung seat doesn't look quite right to me, a springer seat with a more situp'n'beg position like it's R5 inspiration would be better, in looks and for the foot peg position.
As I said it on Ur Instagram post about this bike I'm happy to see BMW making an Uber Boxer engine! My first motorcycle was an ex BMW R1100S and I have a soft spot for the boxer engine configuration! I know the riding position is a non issue. As U said Goldwing Guys have been munching big miles for decades with no complaints!! Now back to the R18 I think yes not having a cruise control is a big mistake! Especially when U can get one on the S1000RR?! And I know that the BMW wanted to make it as authentic as possible all the looks like metal is metal but 350kg is a bit to much but then I know that BMW are very good at hiding the weight of their bikes!! So once above 10 miles weight won't be an issue!! And for the parking well one will need to get the reverse gear! Or alweys remember to back your bike in to a parking spot!! I want to test ride the R18 to compare it with my Big Block Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400. A bike that is very similar to it with transverse V-twin and shaft drive 3 power maps veloce (sport) turismo (normal) and pioggia (rain) tracion control and cruise control(1-0 for the Moto Guzzi) but no reverse gear (Guzzi 1-1 BMW) but my Flying Hippo is 315KG kerb weight so a bit down on the BMW but I recon it won't make that much difference. What will make the difference is the Guzzi is making more power (5bhp) and can rev to 7000rpm but has less torque 122NM at 2750rpm so much less then the BMW 168NM. The interesting thing I tested the HD Fat Bob 114 witch has similar torque as the BMW and my Guzzi pulls harder on acceleration and roll on.
Reverse gear is a must on this bike - when you're pushing the bike backwards into a parking spot or whatever, it's difficult to get close to the centre of gravity because of the bars and the cylinders of course. Combined with the weight it's definitely tricky to push around. Definitely go and test one if you can though! I'd love to hear what you think of it :)
Unfortunately, it still sounds better that my R3 Rocket lol. Aftermarket needed for sure..... love the R18. Keep this in mind if my Mrs allows a second ride.
Are there any aftermarket pipes yet for the rocket? Should sound epic
The riding position is NOT like the Goldwing. I’ve ridden both. Seat height on GW is 29.3”. Seat height in R18 is 27”. Seat on the R18 is also quite bad and uncomfortable. Engine vibrates a lot.
Someone who’s 6’2” with big legs I can comfortably tell you this is a great bike to ride
Wish it came with a centerstand.
Repairing tires, and aligning is much easier with one.
I really think that’s the bike for me. The bobber seat and the leg rests seem to solve the riding position issues. At least for me
The bike is beautiful and most importantly
SIMPLE
Motor, wheels, bars and a seat.
That’s all a bike needs to be.
And a reverse gear! ;)
And brakes!
Comparing this one with the goldwing is just a bmw marketing excuse. You should remember that you sit far back on the gold wing from the engine. So you're shin is not as much close on the goldwing as here. That makes a lot of difference I think
so i sat on one last week, cant legally ride it here in the us yet although ive been for almost a year, and i like the floorboard better than the pegs. with the pegs i felt that my feel kept slipping forward. I would love to ride it. That engine is beautiful, but i dont think its the best fitting sound for a cruiser. i think more burbly sound fits a cruiser better but thats just me.
Great review. I think those big chrome cylinder would take a pounding over time.
I would most definitely put one in my collection. Straight up a class act... i believe i get it BMW🕶🏍
Thanks. I'm waiting for the R18/2 and bagger versions. That's when the platform will start to get interesting. This should do well in the US as the dissatisfaction with Harley grows but Indian may be the company to watch as they build upon their PowerPlus 108 engine. BTW, you can get after market highway pegs for the Goldwing like the Kuryakyn Ergo II Footpegs.
Gene Clarke BMW never was, is not, and never will be a bike for jerks! Bagger?! Lol
Can you guys tell me what the headlight lens was made plastic or glass . Thank you !
It is a work of art. Always been a Harley rider but wouldn't bat an eyelid to jump on that. I would imagine the powers that be at Harley are just nonchalantly chomping on their donuts saying "meh!" 😅
But they should be a bit more concerned about the market as a whole. BMW don't do things on a whim, they're German, so that means they're meticulous.
Just had a thought, could you imagine if BMW decided to do a v twin in that frame with those pots?! Woah! 😮👀😏
Great video as always! What boots are those?!?
Look like Icon 1000 Elsinores to me.
@@LondonSteveLee thanks!
Great review, as usual Bob. Now, what about footpeg drag? Zach, now of Revzilla's Daily Ride fame, experienced that as a major issue, even with rather mild leans.
Cheers FR! I did mention briefly the ground clearance, but tbh I didn't find it too much of an issue for general easy riding. Maybe that will change if I can get one for a bit longer and do some more extensive routes
And no fuel gauge?
I am biased due to owning 2020 R3, but this one looks a not-very-agile weighty lump... personal taste, I reckon... good review, as always.
Cheers mate, I'd prob pick the rocket too for the same money. But I think they're aiming at a less techy, more heritage market with this bike so hopefully it'll sell alright anyway
MOTOBOB Yes, saw your actual ride-review on the new R3... I already owned a 2015 Roadster, which is still quite lovely in it’s way, and was on the fence about purchasing the new iteration... your review helped push me along and couldn not be happier with the purchase, as the damn thing is near to a sport-bike vs the Roadster... two completely different riding experiences...
@@joerocket3rider603 great to hear you're enjoying it - I'm actually trying to get a press bike for a bit longer because I only rode it for a couple of hours. hopefully soon! one of my favourite bikes this year easily
Great review as always dude. I've been eagerly anticipating you thoughts. Maybe its just me, but you didn't seem super excited about the bike apart from its obvious visual appeal, which is undeniable. Did I miss read that, did it move you? Or is it simply that it does what its meant to do without drama?
Fair question... it was a short ride and I was just concentrating on getting the video in the bag. I need to borrow one for a bit longer and just go and get lost on it I think...
@@motobob Yeah totally fair man. Dont get me wrong, its a great review, I really enjoyed it. Cheers for the reply.
You didn’t mention the lean angle and scrapping foot pegs. Did you not lean it much? Other reviewers consider this a problem.
9:10
Reviewers scraping the foot pegs are failing to set the preload properly. Also the cause of complaining about a rough ride.
I guess one question of this bike would be why is it 340kg? Not that long ago, a 1200-1300cc bike would be tipping the scales around 240kgs! An extra 100kgs is a HUGE amount of extra weight. The service intervals of @6000 miles are strangely frequent for what is an understressed engine nowadays. As usual, the first thing to go would be that exhaust 'building' that's tacked on. Euro 5 thanks!
Those brake and clutch master cylinders look cheap-chrome and nasty! The bike as a whole is pretty nicely styled but I don't think I could ever buy one (money issues not withstanding!)
It's 1800cc!
Compared to a similar displacement car the exhaust would be as bulky as the BMW’s engine lol !! In real terms I think they’ve kept size down. The 6,000 mile (10.000km) service interval does seem frequent, but access to valves, cam chains etc should be so simple it hopefully keeps service costs to a minimum..
Great review but we really want to know what boots you are wearing?!! 👍😉
You fill up. You mark the odometer
You stop to fill up 110miles later.
You must have gone down the B1000 about a dozen times given how often your position reset and yet you seemed to always be travelling north!
Excellent video (as normal) . This bike looks like a work of art, I was surprised it only has 90 BHP, but I don't guess that's what this bike is really about.
Personally I prefer Triumph's Rocket 3 take on the ridiculously large engined cruiser bike. You can get cruiser pegs on a Rocket 3, along with cruise control, more power than you really need and the triple sound. Triumph do need to do the reverse gear thing like this and the Gold Wing have. Apart from me not having a spare £20K and a suitable garage for a Rocket 3, pushing 320 Kg (wet guesstimate) of Rocket 3 backwards is a bit off putting.
Thanks KH! Agree that 90hp is irrelevant. Revvy bikes have their place, but there's something to be said for an engine that lays down dollops of torque at just over idle. All my riding in London has taught me that!
For the price I'd probably prefer the Rocket 3 too, but I think the R18 is aimed at a different market. They're really going after that US Harley customer who goes in for the chrome and aftermarket parts. I'm looking forward to what comes next after this First Edition! A proper big faired cruiser would work with this engine.
@@motobob "chrome" . I like looking at chrome, not sure I want to be a slave to having to polish it all. So I'll just admire other people's efforts at keeping chrome shiny :)
If they’d kept the engine size around 9-1300cc (at lower prices), it would’ve peaked a lot more riders interest maybe?
They tried that with the R1200C...
I noticed you were using a beeline navigation device. Any chance you could do a review one time please?
BMW doesn't need this bike it need this bike with half the displacement and price.
I like it.
Dude..... what are those boots!? I need them.
I must know!
Ya Rob what boots are those
Look like Icon 1000 Elsinores to me.
Great review!
Cheers Pete!
P.S. BMW needs to make this engine in 8 cylinders and turbocharged fuel injected. Perfect for aircraft use.
Hey Bob, I still can’t get over that it’s 50kg heavier than a Rocket 3 but great review. On another topic spotted a Beeline Moto on the R18s bars are you going to do a review?
At some point, yes. Really like mine!
MOTOBOB Great I look forward to seeing your take. I like mine but I do wish its turn by turn directions were more reliable they’re usually right but not always plus why doesn’t the Beeline App provided route options like Google Maps to avoid traffic, come on Beeline it’s 2020.
I need one here in Florida, wouldn't want it in Norfolk but here perfect !
I think it sounds great!
Is any one else curious about the cost of insurance due to the size of that engine?
Nice review! 👍😎
Hi.. nice review .. can you please let me know what mic system you used for this video? Also while on move..? I appreciate your response ... Thanks 😊
Surprised you didn't mention the 200mph speedo making the gradients unnecessarily small.
No center stand?
A great review of the great looking R 18! I really enjoy your approach to your reviews, very positive and honest. I can not wait for more reviews of this bike, for I am considering the purchase of one. I do agree that a fuel gauge is really a must for this bike. Warning lights are just not as accurate for what one needs to know. Great video and great ride! Take care until the next video! Peace.
and your boots? what are they?
Icon 1000 Elsinore
GW looks like it's 10x more fun to blast around on. How much is this boxer delivered in the USA 🇺🇸?
Nice review Rob, can this be compared to the Triumph Rocket 3? More of a styling and design exercise than an actual bike to use daily or that often. I guess this would be a ‘third’ bike if you were luckily enough to own a few bikes?
Great vid
Looks so much like r60/r69 , just classic
1800 cc’s? Why not just strap in a V-8?
cylinders just centimeters above your foot will transfer heat big time specially in slow traffic warm hot days.Another minus clearance almost all reviewers were scraping foot pegs even on moderate bends.BMW should of made this 2inch higher seat.Not sure 20k bike that will toast my feet and I can't ride on twisties faster then snail pace...
If you like to point and ride and have small feet then its fine I guess...
Great video! Did you look at the shaft while riding, eventually? Cheers from Italy! 😊
Yes although I didn't get time to fix a gopro to capture it I'm afraid! Next time...
@@motobob I would have been doing that also.. So"mechanical"! Keep up the good work!
As long as the clock includes a trip odometer, who cares if there’s a fuel gauge or not?
Nice review. Wow! No fuel gauge? That's a deal breaker for me.
I’ve had many bikes with no fuel guages. Not a big deal, the trip meter takes the guessing out of it.
@@robinator3202 was just riding with a guy with no fuel gauge. He ran out of gas! All his previous bikes had no fuel gauge so he was used to that. Didn't help him this time. No excuse not to have a fuel gauge these days, especially when the manufacturer chooses to have lots of other questionalable high tech.
I think this bike will sell more in its second year once people see what mods end up coming out.
If that or a Gold Wing, well I would need to test ride the BMW for a few hours on the freeway since most Gold Wings linger there.
no comparison, a Gold Wing is the Pinnacle of comfortable long distance riding!!!
@@michaeljkasnter I tend to agree about the Wing being the long distance preference. Personally, I could ride my little cruiser I had for a while longer and with more comfort than my Gold Wing I had for thirty years. I put a pack behind my back and could lean back in more comfort than the Wing. Now, I have an adventure bike and sport tourer that I cannot ride anything close to the same distances as the little cruiser I had.
Great review
Are paddle shifters available on motorbikes ?
On Honda DCT models like the Goldwing and Africa Twin, yes.
MOTOBOB thanks for that.