I Stereotyped This Motorcycle And Was Wrong | BMW R18 Impressions
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- Опубліковано 26 вер 2024
- 💭 Not gonna lie, I didn't think I would enjoy riding the BMW R18 as much as I did. The Big Boxer Powertrain left me with a smile on my face and wanting to spend more time on it. The character that engine has is intoxicating! I didn't get a lot of time with the BMW R18 so I can only offer Impressions at this time. Hopefully, I can get more extended access to one, but as of right now, it left a great impression on me!
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This is a great review. I traded a Harley Street glide and made the mistake of thinking this bike would be like that. The bike took three days to teach me how to drive it.. it has its own personality and likes to shift at low RPM. I was also concerned about the foot position until I realized it was the best position for long distance. When you stretch out your legs you around your back.
I'm 65 years old and have owned 58 motorcycles. This is by far the best I've ever owned.
By the way I have the R18 B
58 bikes? geez
I’ll stick to my R9T thank you! ♥️🏍️💨🏁
Just yesterday I was at a BMW dealership checking it out. It's crazy to see that it has the same price as a Harley Davidson Street Bob. Overall, it feels like a bigger bike, better finished, and of higher quality. Incredible.
By far, the most watchable, open-minded review of the R18 out of the V-Twin loving USA.
Well done mate, you have a great voice for narration.
i have owned boxer engine BMW for 15 years be careful they can grab you so you never look at anything else
I have both a 2019 HD RG Ultra and a 2022 BMW R18 Transcontinental. Very different rides, but I enjoy both bikes. The BMW has outstanding fit and finish, top notch infotainment, and out performs the HD in the twisties, even though it weighs more. You don't have the HD exhaust note and the HD is quicker. Adaptive cruise control on the BMW is a game changer. Finding BMW dealers as you ride cross country can be a challenge.
All good points!
It's got a nice vintage look about it.
Big facts. The custom scene is going crazy with this platform.
Another genuine and brilliant review. BMW, take note: if there is anyone that would give a review that stirs the soul, Brandon is your man. Even this short introduction had me looking at the bike through new eyes.
That means a lot! Thank you, Ke!
He did a great job for sure!! We had fun on this bike on the Swiss Alps! ua-cam.com/video/JoDN8nip9nk/v-deo.html
I’m used to riding bikes like the s1000rr but I took this out for a demo lately just to see what it was like. It gave me a completely different view on riding and how peacefully you can take it. Would be an ideal bike for a sunny Sunday ride. 🤘🏻 I was impressed. Enjoyed your review from Ireland 🤘🏻
Brandon is a motorcycle ambassador. His garage speaks for itself. BMW give Bicasso the Motovlogging Artist with world class talent a loan R18 for a few weeks so he can give an honest and more in-depth look at this motorcycle. I trust Bicassos take on motorcycles, I don’t always agree, but he is always fair with his comparisons and opinions. You have nothing to lose BMW and everything to gain by supporting this request.
That means a lot Brother ❤️❤️❤️
Give this man the bike for month.
Give this man the bike.
I'm binge watching R18 videos on YT, because I'm thinking about getting one and your video is really one of the best I've seen. You have very pleasant style of presenting the bike. Sad that they haven't give you bike for longer, you would do THEM a favor.
@@awdadwadwad1723 funny thing.. they reached out several years after this video. And the deal fell through. 😂 I appreciate the compliment.
Brandon , Hands-down you’re one of the best blogger when it comes to motorcycle reviews. I still reminisce your old chief dark horse video few months back.
More on Indian Motorcycle to come 😎
I bought mine last summer, it’s a great bike, magnificent presence. It’s a heavy cruiser and when ridden as it should be never disappoints.
If I buy a new bike.... this will be the one. I was there, in Fort Worth for my second R18 ride.... I LOVE THIS BIKE
Niiiice! Glad you enjoyed it and found something you like!
Did see the new models here in Australia and I gotta say they look A LOT more sporty and aggressive then the standard r18. Look similar but has 21” front. Very nice paint job. Drag bars and all blacked out engine etc.
Not trying to nitpick (loved your review), but the engine is mounted longitudinally. Transverse means the crank runs left to right, and spins on the same plane as the wheels. Longitudinal mounting is why the bike torques to the side when blipping the throttle at a stop. Also, longitudinal mounting eliminates the gyroscopic effect of the engine so the bike will flick side to side faster and more freely assuming all other things equal. You do lose the ability to rev the engine slightly during slow speed maneuvers for added stability though.
I picked the R18 Frist Edition in December 2021... and then opted for the better seats, canvas side bags, and the windscreen with dual side lights. I've yet to wire them in and I have the harness parts and want to get that done when I visit the shop at the first maintenance interval which is arriving soon. The seat was definitely calling for improvement, and the windscreen is a welcome improvement. I have a SoundBomb horn that will also go on at the first maintenance interval.
One of the better reviews I’ve seen for the R18. Well done. I clicked subscribe.
BB, another great impressions review. You answered all of the questions that popped into my mind when I first set eyes on R18. Before your review I didn't think I would even take a demo ride if given the chance but know I definitely would. Thanks again for being our test dummy, and I say that with the utmost respect:-). Keep 'em coming!
Get ya hands on one just because 🤓
Now you need to get yourself on a Moto Guzzi!!!!! 100 years of building bikes
I want to! Just have to wait for the right opportunity.
I rode this bike at Big #1 in Birmingham. It rode very good and handled well. I did have problems with the foot pegs, my foot kept hitting the cylinder during shifting and rear braking. My ride along guide told me to use the heel toe for up shifting😁. The shaking when turning the bike on and hard accelerating was crazy!! Overall great experience, the outward cylinder would take some getting use too. Great video!! Stay safe out there!!👍🏿💯
I had the same issue too -and the heel shift worked well! ua-cam.com/video/JoDN8nip9nk/v-deo.html
Like some Alfa Romeo cars, the engine really does look like art...
Nice informative review. I have the First Edition since 09/2020 and very happy with it, especially since I added the Jekyll and Hyde exhausts.
I've got a scout bobber but this R18 aesthetically looks just as good.
I love my R18 “BERLIN BETTY” it’s not a cookie cutter for sure!
I can’t speak for the model you were riding but the touring models were so heavy to get off the stand. I will say the fit and finish is amazing. I love the look of the bike. I just don’t see American buyers getting over the big protruding cylinder heads. I personally like it. Like to see more of it on the channel.
you've sold me on it,,,,looks good,
going to have a test ride ...cheers.
being a Yamaha fan I recommend you review a Warrior and a Raider. I know they are shades of the past now, since they are no longer made, but I think you will love them.
Great review. BMWs always surprise me with how capable they are regardless of how they look. I hope you get to spend more time on that one.
the r18 performed a lot better than i thought it would ua-cam.com/video/JoDN8nip9nk/v-deo.html
Never be surprised by German engineering
Every motorcycle needs cruise control.
Hell yes.
You have my sword.
🥹🙌🏾
As always, good perspective and review. My first bike was a 1975 BMW R90 and got used to the boxer pull. I can still ID a boxer coming down the road from the sound. Regret selling it yet with those old bikes you “feel” the road and the mechanics of riding. Have had my eye on the new BMW boxer for awhile - the years of addition technology on what is a solid core is compelling. FYI…last time I checked, Corbin had their BWW R18 seat mock up bike on offer, with what looked like a touring package. Looking forward to test riding the R18 in the near future. Good work Brandon.
It’s art in motion! Another awesome review - happy holidays brother
Loving the review, watching from Philippines
Thanks for dropping in! 💪🏾
It's a wild bike, they made some crazy choices with it. Looks like you're riding on a plane engine. That reverse tho...
That reverse is hella cool.
This was a great review! Love that you added some history of the r18 and BMW. Keep up the great content.
I ride a 1999 r1100s
I NEED to ride the r18
I do wish the put that fat front tire on the standard model.
I will say that I have always been a fan of boxer motors
Because you can see the jugs from ANY viewpoint.
Early on BMW was offering a bobber seat with a hugger rear fender with beach bars
Those accessories seem to have been removed from the choices.
You've got a pleasant, relaxed conversational voice over on this video voicing your considered thoughts. I think that if BMW would like to stand out from Harley, one meaningful way would be to give this bike more cornering clearance. I like much of what I've seen from this video. Thanks!
Great review, thank you. My point of view, the vest looking cruiser out there.
I had the R1200C, amazing bike. It was light, nimble, well built and engineered, the air/oil cooled engine was able to handle some city traffic without getting too hot, but that was always a concern. That’s the main reason I sold it and bought a water cooled VRSCF to replace it.
After that BMW released the R18 that was nice but didn’t entirely convinced me, then they released the R18 Classic and that one really caught my eye, can’t wait to drive one and see if it makes me wanna buy one.
Yeah, I think you take for about a week. I will definitely watch.
Nice review..
The classic looks like a good bike for travel.
I would love to see you do a long term review on one of these. My Scout is perfectly capable to do whatever I need (like your Bobber was) but I bet the R18 is a lot better comfort wise for long stretches and it comes with mid-controls. I have added mids to my Scout since I do not like the foot forward position. I have also looked at the Chief but the closest Indian dealer is now 4+ hours away. Our BMW dealer here in Memphis is great. I bought my first bike from them (not a BMW). Happy Holidays!
Great review. Thank you.
Great video! Nice to see a real rider review. Thanks
Sure thing!
Thanks for doing this Brandon. I am intrigued by the bagger edition and was wondering about stretching out as well. -RJ
Sure thing! There's no excuse for that anymore with the official accessory available.
..same..
Wow, that’s awesome! Great big bike Brandon! Great work 👍
nice review thankyou !!
i like it , i would black it all out and take the option of the blacked out high bar .
Excellent Review!
Nice review, Brandon! I have always enjoyed working on BMW motorcycles. Riding them has always left me a little non-plussed, though. I should try the S1000R, maybe.
Nice review as usual. As a former BMW K bike owner, I’m a huge fan of the R18. Looking forward to seeing what else BMW does with this platform. If they do something more performance inspired, I’d definitely take a hard look at it. Nice vlog.
How come after watching this video I’m thinking your going to purchase this bike lol. Great vid man, it’s cool that your open minded about it.
Always open minded on everything I ride. ❤️ I do stereotype them before hand but I always go in on a blank slate. It’s more fun that way when everything is exciting and new.
I like your review. I have never been a boxer fan. Just doesn't do it for me. Like you I shouldn't prejudge it and take one for a ride. Thanx for your impressions.
Definitely ride it! You don't have to buy it, right?
Missed you brah!! Merry Christmas 🎄 and Happy New Year 🎆 God bless
Missed y’all too! Happy Holidays! ❤️
Fine review. I hope BMW sees this and gives ya one for at least a cpl weeks.
The R18 will be the next bike I get. I can't stand how sterile and soulless most modern bikes are. That's my only real issue with my Indian (well at least that's my only complaint after I put a 2 into 1 with no cat and basically fixed the heat issue). I WANT to feel the motor. I WANT to feel the bikes soul.
Anyway again... Fine review.
i rode it ..... lots pep..... sport mode was niiiiiice
would I buy it !? nope not for me didn't love the seating position for long haul
well done vid with lots of details ! bravo sir !
More choices for the masses. Ain't nun wrong with a lil German engineering.
@@BrandonBicasso nope not at all just not taking my dollas lol
Yeah that’s something I haven’t even considered. I would test ride one and consider one
Definitely should!
The exhaust has me in my feelings, I like them and then I am not sure about them at the same time.
That's how I felt. They go well with the lines of the bike, but they still look... odd, but different! And that's okay.
Heck yeah, if the Beemer Boys are paying attention, give Brandon one of these babies to play with for two or three weeks so that he can tell us a bit more about what it's like to live with. I know I'M looking forward to seeing that!
🤓💪🏾
So I actually got the privilege of riding an R18 right after riding a Chief Dark Horse at the Barber Vintage Festival in October. Granted they were both demo/impression rides that lasted about 35 minutes, I will say that the Chief checked more cruiser boxes in terms of ride. The riding position was more favorable (Chief’s mid controls and mini apes, and the feeling of being IN the bike v. R18’s mid controls and standard bars, feeling of being ON the bike). I’m not going to say which engine felt more powerful because I don’t feel like I got to open the R18 up like I got to do with the chief, but I will say the boxer engine rotation is certainly very interesting. And while the riding position isn’t a detriment to the R18, it’s lack of lean angle was. The “mountain” roads around Birmingham with sharper than average corners really created some instances of peg/boot drag. Coming from a Harley Sportster, the vibration at idle and at high speed were not new feelings to me albeit not what I expect from BMW. All in all, it’s a great motorcycle, but I feel as though it serves a market segment, I’m not a part of-affluent American V-Twin haters that like cruisers. If we’re looking at the motorcycles the R18 competes against, it finishes at best 3rd behind whatever order you put the Harley Softail Slim (I would pick the street bob instead but your choice) and the Indian Chief. Both the Harley and the Indian perform better at competitive or even better price points.
I'm curious as to how they "perform better" when it seems like a major complaint of your is lean angle. Out of the slim, chief and r18 guess which has the greatest lean angle? Yup beemer. The touring version increase upon that because of increased ride height.
I really don't know how either of the other two perform better. The 116 would be the more powerful motor BUT it's by far the hottest. The r18 is by far the coolest.
I get liking the styling of any more than the others. That's all taste. This just reads as if your taste effected your perception. I'm betting you find it hard to believe that the r18 has a substantial lean advantage and it's even greater in the touring versions.
Not arguing or anything man, I've just seen MANY people talk about the lean angle and I know the reason is they see those big cylinders sticking out... Perception just is not reality in this regard.
Peace.
Have both R18 and Chief Dark Horse. Both are the best and different rides.
Give this man a bike for a week! Make it happen! Hell he just got me to watch an entire video and that never happens. Plus I'm on a test ride next week 😁 So come on BMW do the man a solid.
BMW, give this man a long term demo!
Thanks for sharing your experience with the R18, 100% agree with your take on it. Last week, I had the opportunity to test ride both the R18 Bagger and the K1600 Bagger. Great fun and happy to now have firsthand experience with these bikes. The R18 has received quite a bit of negative reviews. With that said, the tech package and suspension that comes with R18 as well as the fit/finish are better than what HD offers. Also the price with incentives are a better deal than anything HD can offer. With that said, current HD riders would probably not be sold on the R18 for three reasons, No forward controls, lacks that lovely HD sound and all my friends have Harley, so I'm buying one too. I currently have a BMW R 1250 RS and am looking to add a cruiser / bagger, but not yet sure what I'm going to do. Thanks again for sharing, enjoy the ride.
i think bikes like the 300 Rebel should have cruise control so i say continue on that crusade man 👍👍 lol. im 6'2 i think i would get cramped on that. plus its BMW which to me says $$$ lol. good vid though
That was a helpful evaluation of the R18. Thank you for that fair and balanced assessment.
Give Brandon a weekend and a gas can, let him find out how far this R18 can go!
That would be an absolute must!
This is the only BMW I have ever thought was beautiful at first site. The motor looks bullet proof. But I'm skeptical being 6' 2''.
Definitely go sit on one to get an idea. You might be more comfortable than you think. 👌🏾
6'4" 32" inseam, 220lbs. Size 12 shoe. For me, a very comfortable riding position. YMMV.
I rode one of these yesterday, the touring model, through one of New Zealand's best motorcycle roads. 210 kilometres of it and I never touched down once. I've had the R1200c over the same road and smacked down a few times on some 35 kmh corners but no sense of that on the R18. My Fatboy touches down well before this does. I think the key is to open the throttle through the apex and that tends to lift the bike while intensifying the turn even more. Its an R series thing.
I love this bike ❤️❤️❤️
Really enjoy your content and reviews of the different bikes.
Well, if they are really listening out there , I just purchased their bagger. So could you please get those accessories out the doors ? Its a beautiful machine , no doubt ! but you have to get it outfitted for your own style . Its quirks really gives it that unique character, but also makes it obsolete when you want those Mod's. But hey, Im patient .
😂😂😂, great time to ask.
I test rode the bagger R18 and while I love the look, I wasn’t crazy about the shakiness at stops and the clutch was quite hard to hold in. I’m not sure if it was something off with the bike I rode or if that was normal. The other thing that was awkward was the heal/toe shifter. It didn’t feel like it was lined up properly and I had trouble finding the heel shifter which I like to use. This is probably nitpicking but the windshield that was on the bagger was a waste. Why have a +$20k bagger with a low windshield that doesn’t move electronically? It’s too low which I’m sure you can upgrade to a different height but shouldn’t electronic be standard? For the life of me I can’t understand why Harley and any other manufacturer that makes a bagger doesn’t check this box. As I stated in the beginning, it’s a nice looking bike and certainly worthy to compete in this market.
Good questions. I think HerTwoWheels also had issue with the heel toe shifter which probably could’ve been fixed with an adjustment. The windshield… definitely could be adjustable. I’m spoiled by that from Indian on the Challenger/Chieftain.
@@BrandonBicasso I have a chieftain so you can understand my bias. Lol
Always been a fan of BMW motorcycles. The R18 is a beautiful motorcycle.
Thank you sir, a new subscriber.
Still love my M109R. I got hey 2014 with 4K miles for under $6000. It gets compliments everywhere I go and higher absolutely love it.
I left exhaust stock on this one 'cause honestly I love the lines of it,
my upgrades of choice are just the biggest tires you can fit on it.... 280 in the back and 160 up front.
still have my 07 as I want to paint it before I sell it but I think I might keep it put a small turbo just for fun... lol we'll see.
awesome video i've never heard of the R18
You got a very good deal congrats 👏
That’s a damn good deal!
i live in tampa FL there seems to be a lot of them in orlando . i got the last one when the pandemic started, everyone was selling their toys.
and i needed a daily.
Thanks for the replies
Nice work Brandon, unbiased review! Love your review style. Subbed! I just bought the R18 TC. You are spot on - finally. I am 6'3," and it feels roomier than the Ultra Limted. And, it feels more nimble and fast through the mid-range - fun without speeding. Oh, and tech up the ying yang. The workmanship is stunning. Just enough chrome to make heads turn. The boxer is different and the character is there. It's not a Harley. I like Harleys and I like this one. "Art" ya.
I've seen some real bargains here in Australia, it's a hell of a bike when you can get it for ten grand.
I just looked at the exchange rates, so the 2020 bike I saw for sale at Auto Classic in Perth today for $20k with 1000 original km would be $13350 US dollars. That is one hell of a lot of bike for the money.
Great review! been checking out your channel since I seen you on Shadetree Surgeons channel. I like the BMW R18 and probably would get the Transcontinental all chromed out in Manhattan green. BMW finance is tough on trash people like me so I either gotta pay cash or stick with HD.
Either way, I hope you get what you want!
I love my rninet, and can't imagine anything feeling and sounding better
That was a very good review 👍
Great video. That would be great if they let you have one for a while. I'd love to get a long term review from you. You are a muscle bike kinda guy.
I like THICC rear ends. 😃
Great review of a beautiful and interesting motorcycle. Alright @bmw Send him a T&E bike!
Folks finding what they want is important to all of us being just a tad safer with more people riding! Me though, I'm straight Harley. But German engineering ain't too bad.
When it comes to exquisite engineering BMW is top notch. BMW in my opinion is luxury and premium quality that is priced realistically and not absurdly unobtainium to the general masses. They have always had classy styling cues that said I am both luxurious yet sporty enough to get your heart rhythm up. Again, in my opinion this quality is what speaks to the consumer because it scratches two itches simultaneously; especially when it comes to cruiser and touring edition motorcycles.
I have had the pleasure of riding several styles of BMW motorcycles and found that no matter what riding style they were intended for they were steeped in a perfect balance of elegance and performance that was all aimed at the rider's end experience having been exhilarating and comfortable.
With that being said no matter the bike in question there will always be some aspect that every individual would change to make their experience more enjoyable and suited to their personality. That is why the aftermarket exists, but when you start with an already amazing platform that speaks to everyone positively after they have ridden it that speaks volumes. People do not buy a BMW to fit in with the crowd, they buy one to stand out in a crowd. They dare to venture beyond conformity and broaden the horizon that lies ahead.
Stellar review. Thanks
If you had it for a few weeks you would buy one . They are that good and so much fun to ride .
Being a farm boy and hearing and seeing the after math of when someone loses a limb in a PTO shaft that drive shaft just doesn't seem safe to me.
I’ve seen it I have gotten to ride but what. A beautiful bike and different I love the boxer motor
I'd rather have the Triumph Thunderbird Nightstorm. Looks very/ juuust like it..doesn't it? Hmmm!!??
Excellent presentation.
Appreciate your experience.
good video, thanks. considering this bike.
I think an ultralight version of this bike would be wicked. Stripped down to the bare minimum, carbon fiber panels instead of metal panels.
I agree. More carbon accents would be nice too!
I was torn between this and an S1000XR. Settled on the XR because of the warranty: 7yr and Unl. Mile for $1100. Same warranty was $3600 on the R18.
Hopefully they let you borrow the bike for an extended period. I’d like to see your thoughts if they do.
Oh I've been very interested to see this :)
Very good video man, I will admit the exposed drive shaft still would make me nervous with a pillion, it is beautiful tho. The stock exhaust will firmly forever be in the bin for me tho.
I'm also not a fan of chrome, but that's easily fixed. Glad to hear it's actually good to ride, resting my feet on the heads would be fine really I suppose, once I could stretch :)
I think that's the kind of bike you really need more time with, because it's so so different from most of what we ride. Also very interested to see what they're made in to in the custom scene.
The shaft is no more "hazardous" than a chain drive for a passenger, wouldn't you say?
@@482jpsquared No I wouldn't say tbh, chain have the top down chain guard, I still haven't gotten to see one in person though so that might change my mind.
Also I'm not sure why you put "hazardous" in quotes as I didn't say that :D
Brandon I follow you and Jess "Her Two Wheels" she's doing the R 18 ride in Costa Rica - I which you could have been added to that trip - to see your review especially driving in inclement weather. Great review - I like this bike
I also prefer dialing back the chrome
Great review... I like how it looked in the videos and pictures. However, when I actually sat on one with the engine running and a few by blips of the throttle, I was not sold. The tank is too skinny. I like the big round tanks. But good on BMW :-)
I dispise forward controls and most cruisers would be better all around motorcycles with more traditional footpeg placement.