Why Wouldn’t You Buy a BMW R 18? Main Issues & Concerns People Have Expressed about this Motorcycle
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- Опубліковано 21 сер 2022
- We discuss the main issues that people have expressed in the comments on our various BMW R 18 videos.
The BMW R18 cruiser motorcycle with the 1800 cc boxer engine is a motorcycle people love to love; and love to hate! Just read the comments we will inevitably get below! There are a few major barriers for some, that prevent them buying this motorbike, and we discuss each, in detail.
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The R18 is a glorious, gorgeous, feat of retro engineering…and why I now own one (Classic version). Props to this channel for addl. validation.
Indeed 👌🏼
Nice 👍
Me too!
That’s the very same reaction I have every time I end up at the BMW Service Desk!
Haha I can imagine that 😆
In Florida where it’s hot. No issues with heat. My v twin was a “NUT” roaster.
Just being in the wind, enjoy whatever you ride🕊🦋
Yes absolutely 👍🏼👍🏼
I must’ve watched hours and hours of motorcycle reviews on UA-cam but this is the most objective, well presented review I’ve ever watched. King regards from Barcelona!
Thanks buddy. Sorry for the terrible intro though 👍🏼👍🏼
Recently bought one. Concur with everything you have already said about it. It’s magnificent. It is what it is, if you don’t like it fine jog on…..
Yes indeed 👍🏼👍🏼
I've never been attracted to huge bikes but this one, with that massive engine block, captures my heart.
I had an 80s bmw r65 and even that had a big 'ol engine block.
It’s a sight to behold!
Beautiful bike.
I was locked between choice with R18 and street bob, when looking to buy a new ride.
The street bob won only due to weight.
Yes they were my top 3 too 👍🏼
Im not a side car guy but can't help thinking this would look pretty epic with a similarly finished sidecar !
Easy to drive, great bike but hideous looking pipes 😀
I love the pipes as they are different ❤
Wish I was strong and rich enough to own such a beautiful machine👍
I think the bike looks fantastic and I also like the fishtail exhaust the cylinders sticking out look great.
Hey, my roofer came down with a case of shingles.
I stole that joke from The Simpsons.
Nice to see you both together sgain
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼💯
I am slated to take delivery of my 2021 R18 Classic on the 1st of Sept. I can't wait.
Excellent 👌🏼
I enjoy your videos! and Wish you speedy recovery!
🙏👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan please take augmentin 625, 2 times a day for 5 days.
had it over a year and with 3.5k miles- Absolutely love this bike.. the seat is horrendous- like a wooden stool and the suspension sucks- YUP BUTTHURT over here, no fuel gauge but tons of other unnecessary info, also, just had the valves adjusted under warranty. Believe me this is one of the finest bikes out there--- compared to my harley this does not get hot at all.
Just bought the 2022 BMW R-18 Transcontinental, I have only had it only one week and the ABS brake pump already went out.
Oh no that’s a shame. 😬
On my old airhead those jugs were great leg rests on cold days - just keep your boot heel off the headed
I'm intrigued as to what you mean by 'resists wind'. As a pilot I know that once in the air the wind has no effect other than to affect you position over the ground. The wind is just moving air - once you are in that air mass, you move with it. Go up in a hot air balloon which cannot move through the air, only with the air, and even in a gale you will feel no wind. But the ground will be flashing past pretty quickly!
I definitely would like to take one of these for a ride.
The cylinders also serve as crash bars and they protect the feet and ankles if the bike is laid down.
Bought the Transcontinental. Put 1400 miles on it over the first 3 days getting from Sioux Falls to Panama City, Florida. I have had none of the "issues" people say I should have. I do think the windscreen could be much better and the stereo speakers don't sound good at speed. I have owned a Road Glide, Heritage Softail, Triumph ThunderBird, Indian Chief (2022), Indian Chieftain, numerous sportbikes and even rode from Seattle to Pensacola on a 94 Katana 750 about 20 years ago. I find the heat from the engine to be much less here in Florida than my Harleys or Indians were. Liking looks is subjective and a personal thing. I have liked various aspects of every bike I have owned. I find the BMW to be fairly responsive for as choked off as it is from the factory. Ride is mostly smooth (some buzzy patches based on rpm's). I frequently use the cylinders for leg rests as they dont get too hot. Do I expect this bike to be a smashing success? Not at all, but it sure is a lot of fun to ride.
Good points there. I think the likelihood that it isn’t selling like hot cakes makes the appeal to those of is who love it even stronger, in that we have a rather unique bike 👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Bingo!
Great video love the R18 superbly built. Clearly your suffering from bent boxer syndrome. Commonly experienced in older blokes.
All the best ...it's terminal.
Thanks buddy. Haha maybe. On the mend now 👍🏼
Stunning machine would not hesitate to get one if I could afford it
Thanks buddy
You like the exhaust, can I interest you in my MZ Supa 5🤣 right size bike for you guys, love the rest of it, looks a blast to ride.
Great intro l love it. I think the bike is fantastic, just waiting for the right one at the right price.
Excellent 👍🏼👍🏼
What an excellent motorcycle. In my opinion a piece of art you can ride. I have the means to buy one but i would be scared of the cost of even basic part replacement.
Definitely worth getting one luckily I have not had to replace any parts 👍🏼
This man either needs to be the new Old Spice spokesman or he needs a red & black flannel, a big-ass axe and a wool toque!
Im having a nightmare with can bus system on my FE 2021 rejecting my optimate 4 can bus edition charger ........
Nice review old man.
Two questions:
Is it a bigger problem than the v-twin if you were to drop it on the side?
How does it compare to the rocket 3, since you rode both?
Thanks buddy.
It’s probably easier to pick up because it won’t fall so far.
I prefer it to the rocket 3. The r18 has more character and rides much more stable. Of course the rocket is faster but that’s not important to me
Hey hope you get sorted! At least you have a lovely bike to cheer you up 👍
Thanks buddy 🙏 Yes I’ll have to make up for it
I love to love it mate, so cool. The pipes are awesome. Not too noisy as I enjoy my music in the office. The only gripe I have is the cornering clearance. Comparing to the old triumph speedmaster I had which had a similar lean angle. When you scraped on that you were near the end of its handling potential. Not so with the R18. In this case its a bit of a shame as it sits like a rock on the road up to and beyond the point of touchdown. Although its very safe in this respect, it does seem a little underwhelming. Other than that its a very very rewarding ride.
Thanks buddy. Interesting points. I feel it keeps one safe by not encouraging over zealous cornering 👍🏼👍🏼
Mate try Valerium and St John's Wart, they have a calming effect on the nervous system, This helped me years ago with a strong bout of shingles.
5:09 and the Oscar goes to….
🤣
Brilliant stuff. The more I see of the R18, the more I like. It’s got the ball balls of a Harley, the cool of a Bobber and the shove of a Rocket.
Thanks buddy. The pain is genuine though; I can assure you 👍🏼👍🏼
2 years and 47k kms. Still loving mine. It's not so fresh looking anymore, few stone chips however the chrome is really good quality and still shines to a mirror finish. It runs perfectly with no reliability issues whatsoever. Have had now 2 sports bikes to compliment it, but the R18 is still my favourite. The standout feature is its highway handling. Its an absolute dream to carve up the sweepers and overtake those mere mortals in their anonymous tin boxsleds. I leave home keen as young man on a hot date and return home sad the ride is over for the day. Brilliant bike.
Awesome to hear, I still love my R18 also (the Ol Man). 👍🏼👍🏼
my r1200st was brilliant cool in summer in traffic in winter kept me legs warm along with heated grips saved trying to reach the engine to warm the hands up a bit hee hee
How's that! 🤣😜
Another great video guys. Hope you feeling better ol man
Thanks buddy 🙏👍🏼
Beautiful bike
Just completed a test ride. Nice torque. Comfortable cruising. Found the heel/toe difficult to get used due to cylinder position. One heavy puppy.
My dealer tells me that for 2023 BMW will be coming out with a classic 1200 air/oil cooled version.
Should be much lighter but still vintage/classic.
OK great. Like the sound of that 👍🏼👍🏼
Hey Ol man I feel for ya brother, the R18 is a nice ride it is, it's just not for me, I can ride from one side of Australia to the other N-S-E-W on serious long haul coast to coast road trips in true comfort, and the one simple thing that helps every time is my highway pegs, to be able to stretch out when needed and continue on doing 800 km days with absolute ease. Love ya reviews Ol man
Great looking bike that, agree it could do with a bit more sound to the exhaust but the fishtail does really suit it. Get well soon as well.
Easy enough to keep the stock fishtail exhaust and have the baffling reworked for more rumble.
Fishtails only look good on a Harley. BMW needs to be more original.
I too perfer the mid controls on my Harley Dyna, but the addition of hyghway pegs is an easily addition, and makes a massive difference in comfort on longer rides. The R18's design prohibits the mounting of any such alternative foot position, and this factor alone makes the BMW a non-starter in my book.
Ok that’s true of a lot of people 👍🏼
Getting older isn't for the fiant hearted. Nice summary on R18.
Thanks buddy 🤕
Great vid...very entertaining
🙏👍🏼
It surprises me that most bikers I speak to do not know what countersteering is, so it doesn't surprise me that people have problems with steering on bikes like these.
Another great review, I'm gagging to see the Beemer on loud mufflers, I think it could make the bike sound amazing and maybe even look better, go on, please, pretty please?
Thanks buddy. We shall see 👍🏼
Set on one the seat is uncomfortable but then i start the thing and yeah i bought it .
I don't know how you do it. I am 6'3" with a 13 size shoe. I have not ridden one but sat on one at the dealer and also a buddy's R18. I actually prefer mid-pegs on cruisers than forward so that is not an issue. The main thing was the lack of room b/w the peg and the motor. With a work boot (which I often wear when riding), there is not much room to move my foot. My buddy is maybe 5'9" with a much smaller foot and it suits him very well. The ol' Man looks around my size and he seems to do OK with it. When I was at the BMW dealer last fall in NC, they were almost giving them away. All were priced out the door less than 18K USD where as a similar Harley was going for at least 5K more. I have seen several folks riding them so I assume they are not a flop here in the US. Perhaps at the low price they were going for, folks could not resist.
I'm sure they recoup their money when you take them for service.
I never had a problem with heat on my old R1100GS. This R18 is a wonderful bike. I love the exhausts. Oil consumption when new? I had to keep an eye on my 1100GS's oil level. It stopped using it at 30,000 miles when I was touring, but continued to use some when I was doing shorter runs. Don't get caught out.
It’s been fine so far. I always check to be sure 👍🏼👍🏼
Rear drive failure after 5,000+ miles. Covered by warranty ($4000) but that will be up soon. After 22 months, I am late (first time) on a payment. Many emails - for the past week I tried to set up online payments. "Technnical issues" was the response. I called the 800 number. "We are experiencing technical difficulties at this time - Goodbye." Yeah - Seems to run in the family.
I think its a cool bike.But Ive only seen it in the BMW dealer,none on the road yet..
Same where I live in Florida I've never seen one on the road. On the other hand Harley's are a dime a dozen.
R18 is a success. I own one and I can’t complain really. The exhaust is not great in pictures, but it looks fantastic in the flesh. I would advise to get the flat feet pegs, so you can change slightly the riding position along the ride. Also cruise control is a must. I may upgrade the seat but that’s it. Also, a camel. I always go above 220 km with a full tank.
Indeed. Excellent thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan thanks to you for the great videos!
I think it looks awesome, but you’d need to love the boxer engine to buy one. Personally I admire the big boxer rather than love it, but it’s a valid alternative to a V-Twin. I don’t see this as a Harley clone, it’s a valid BMW homage to cruisers and BMW’s own history.
Incidentally I recently traded my BMW 310R back to motorcycling ride for a Harley Softail Low Rider. I looked at the exact same model with Darcy at Sycamore Harley pre-summer if he remembers me, but I decided the 310 was a saner return to biking. After 2000 miles of riding it seemed safe to get the Harley now. It is absolutely epic! Good times 🙂
Exactly what I think about any resemblances to a Harley, never has BMW here no in any markets I’m aware of marketed R18 as a cruiser, chopper whatever. Just the retro “R” line resembling their older bikes, this one is exactly that. Just because Harley hasn’t really came out with anything more modern and is only really making bikes that looked the same for the last century, doesn’t mean others doing the same is copying. Some stuff might be similar but that’s unavoidable
However I do love the boxer, that I’m different in regard to
My GS 1250 is the motocycle I’ve had that gives off the less heat.
What about the cost of repairs when the bike slides are bmws expensive because I really want this bike so bad
It's going to be top end pricing bro
I love the bike. And I have to agree with the old man on the pipes, they just look so good actually remind me of the 57 Chevy tail fins. Just so Classy!!! I wouldn’t touch them. Just a beautiful motorcycle all around 👍
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
Great channel. R18 looks cool. Re rash, Didn't get pissed up in Brighton and now feel the need to climb trees ?
Thanks buddy. Haha no not that 👍🏼
I reckon the R18 is a cracking looking bike certainly one of the most distinctive on the market with classic styling with modern updates. It’s a shame BMW charge you for the pin stripes that set the bikes looks of so well . Have you had any temptation to ho back to a Harley at all for your next bike ?
Definitely. I still love Harleys so I guess it depends what comes out. But I think the R18 is going to be one of the last bikes of its kind before everything is electric
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Yes true the R18 is definitely 2 fingers to the electric brigade the current crop of electric bikes on the market are about as appealing as sitting on a commode in public apart from the live wire but the price and the range out weigh it’s good loose and performance unfortunately,I’ve just regressed and sold my FTR carbon and got a crossbones so electric can wait for me , enjoy your riding and keep up the good content both of you.
@@andrewjohnson6297 I love the crossbones! Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
I think it's an absolutely achingly beautiful bike ......snd the second-hand prices are good now 🙂
Absolutely 👍🏼👍🏼
The after market is catching up, the new exhausts ( slip ons and full exhaust) cool. Pier city are good for all the after market bits. I've a rnine t and love the big brother, maybe next year.
Excellent thanks buddy 👍🏼
Just checked them out. Very nice 👌🏼
interestingly in germany are loads of R18s with very very low milage for sale, mostly below 1000miles . Guess its not everyones cup of tea.
It’s definitely a connoisseurs bike 👍🏼👍🏼
Off to the vet for you.
The R18 is fine if you love it - screw everyone else motorbikes are personal.
You bike must fit your desire and style.
I have people tell me my Vitpilen is ugly - My F*ck giving gland is still atrophied.
Yes good points. Thanks buddy 🙏
An R60 bobber, sixty years late. ✌🏼
Whats that leather jacket that the Ol' man usually wear? Would love to get one!
Thanks buddy.
Either of these:
bikeweardirect.co.uk/products/leather-brando-motorbike-jacket-marlon-biker-motorcycle-perfecto-with-ce-armour
goldtop.co.uk/collections/jackets/products/the-619-rebel-jacket?variant=37942603382955
👍🏼
That last scene on your video. 😂
The pain is genuine though 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan- Ah. I see. Get well soon then, brother. 👍🏼
"Which one do you choose, noise or looks?" Looks don't bother other people, noise does, so the choice should be simple. Anyway, those pipes fit the lines of the bike, so leave them on.
That’s a good way of thinking 👍🏼👍🏼
You're locked in to mid control's. That would be a problem for me. I'm comfortable with mids but I need to change it up a bit on long rides. Otherwise I would definitely ride that bike.
Yea I get that 👍🏼👍🏼
I've gone to see a few of them now and the chrome is coming off them all.... which I guess is why they're priced so low. I really wanted one before considering on the face of it, they're the best value cruiser used. I'm going to have a look at a CCM next weekend to see what they're all about, I know it's like a swing in a totally different direction, but they look like they might hold up better. Have you ridden one yet?
My R18 is still pristine after 2 years.
We’re getting a couple of CCM’s in a few weeks. They look good quality
Only ‘Mericans would ask the question of feet roasting…
Don’t get fobbed off -
I scrapped my leg on a plough, three weeks later all my tattoos began to split and weep, loads of pain !
It took two years to clear - it was an infection but nobody could find it !
Crickey! I’ve got an appointment with a dermatologist on Thursday 💪🏼
Amazing motorcycle,My personal dislikes, lack of fuel indicator, exhaust sound/look and finally lack of an actual key is ruining the classic character. Hope BMW will add a fuel gauge to their upcoming models, it’s a heavy bike to carry lol
That engine is a peach.Grows on me every day and I don't own one.
Agree that the cylinders are way too big and in the way. The deal killer for me. Also, the bike sounds anemic . . . but probably can be resolved easily enough with aftermarket pipes. Undeniably beautiful bike though.
No problem 👍🏼👍🏼
how much weight is the Ol man moving on the bench? Got big arms for a big bike 👍
Not so much these days. I keep it under 110kg and mainly pump it up with less
@@MrDarcy-OlMan My man, this is still very good. You look happy and healthy. Keep it up👍
I tried the R18B yesterday, and you definitely feel the heat on your feet.
Really. I never have
it's a stunning bike
🤣🤣🤣 good stuff both & still love the R18 it is a quality machine.. 🚑🚑🚑
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
"Very" unique - does that mean you can get more unique than unique? 🤣🤣
Ultra unique.
I love your channel but can't get my head around the R18,you said you don't like the rocking from side to side,I have a Moto Guzzi V1100 Breva,which does the same and I love it,also the Rocket 3,a much better bike,you said not suitable for the roads in Wales,less rake and lighter,so don't get that one,also Triumph have the the Thunderbird Storm,you can pick a good one up for 10 grand,great bike,1700 cc,so the big Bonneville, I've had 4 Harleys over the years,still have my 08 Bonnie,never let me down,had loads of issues with the Harleys, really I want a honest review,if you drop that BMW think of the damage and cost,my opinion,love your channel,but you will probably deleat me
I’m fine with the rock tbh. It’s part of its character.
I find steep rakes = sharp steering = more likely to get it crossed up.
👍🏼👍🏼
Nothing looks better than a V-twin in a motorcycle. Especially the cruiser type.
I got a 200hp harley bagger, I use mid controls because mine is a quarter mile dragster but cruising down the highway I enjoy stretching my legs out forward on pegs
Cool 😎
Must admit, not my cup of tea, but it's really aesthetically pleasing.
Thanks buddy 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan 🙌🙌
Its a beautiful bike but I would never buy one as its not my style of bike. As a multiple bike owner I also own a 2021 S1000RR M package and that bike is a technical marvel and so far totally reliable. Only boxer bike I might be in the market for is an R9T but those cylinders are so vulnerable if the bike fell over even when stationary. Hope you get well soon. I am 63 and can see old age creeping up on me slowly but that's life I suppose.
Thanks buddy. Much appreciated
Super video saludos cordiales 👍👍👍👍🤘🤘🤘🤘
Muchas gracias 👍🏼👍🏼
Of the 371 thus far figure the question/comment is buried in there somewhere...what about the rear shock on the R18. I would offer that should be one of the bmw main issues & concerns with this R18 model. Well that plus the flat as a board and probably as comfortable stock seat I would think. A bit light on the topics actually (apology for the thought). Handling weight at very low turning speeds, concerns about off center weight if making sharp low speed turns, how useful are the lights front/rear. Cruise control if this unit had it? At any rate your videos are enjoyable. Sort of had me worried a bit about you yet at the end you were smiles. Nice review of camera equipment used btw. Keep them coming and get better. Enjoy the bike and YES the stock Fish tails have to stay :)
I find the rear shock perfectly fine. It’s adjustable to your weight.
I have the tall rider seat and it’s excellent.
Handling weight at low speeds is remarkable; the low centre of gravity and light steering is a breeze (accepting its a huge bike of course). I don’t have cruise control but have used it on another R 18 and it’s easy to use.
The lights are good. 👍🏼👍🏼
@@MrDarcy-OlMan Kind of you to reply and so fast at that. Hope better news from the Doc...tuesday or maybe it is this thursday.
@@MrDarcy-OlMan😊
Sounds like a bi-plane and the cylinders are like cinder-blocks sticking out from the side of a motorcycle- put me in the love to hate category. I'll stay with my parallel twin.
No problem bro 👍🏼
I test rode the r18 and really like it on the road but in the parking lot and slow speed manuvers it was very awkward ...my opinion
It’s the same in that respect as any big bike, such as Harleys etc but at least it has reverse 👍🏼
Is an alternator for this bike really $1000 us dollars?
Probably, I'm scared it might be, being in southeast asia. Price will skyrocket
Looks like you were looking for love in all the wrong places 😂. . . Just kidding! I hope you feel better my friend.
Haha not that 👍🏼👍🏼
I wouldn't buy one because I would rather a r9T pure 🏍
Been riding the R 18 Bagger for just over a year now. Came from a Triumph Rocket Touring. The bike is brilliant, but my biggest issue is the lack of any real customizing possibilities. No OEM spotlights for the front crash-bars. No BMW own sissy bar, infant nearly no customizing parts from BMW. Wunderlich in Germany is the only company doing anything in this segment. I chose the BMW over a Harley because I wanted to be different, am now being punished for my choice by BMW in them not offering anything to make my bike a little bit special 🤮
That’s a shame. I asked Wunderlich if they’d like to send us a rack and rear swivelling backrest but they never returned the message. It might have created more awareness about customisation. I guess you could find a good backstreet fabricator somewhere 🤔
The BMW cars have a similar problem.
I think I only could ride this bike with a quite higher seat an a short of Hollywood bar. That would be more in the way of a 1936.
Who the hell needs 1800cc? Come on BMW build sensible size flat twin bikes. A 750 flat twin please in traditional roadster style with leading link forks, just like they always were.
I do! Big cc = low revving torque = low stresses = longevity = muscle 👍🏼👍🏼
You haven't made any visits to Swansea recently have you Ol' Man?
...
Say no more!
Say no more!
...
Um, Darcy ... I wouldn't sit on that seat for at least two to three weeks and then not without some protection.
;)
S
Lol 😆 Thanks buddy 👍🏼
🙏💪
The writings on the tank, 'Big Man's Willy' syndrome!
Oh no! 😆
BMW R18 is a beautiful bike but there is something about a Harley Davidson that I will choose over all others even though they might be better or have more advanced options. I will always choose a 57 Chevy over a brand new Porsche any day. Old School over New School every time.
Yes I totally get that 👍🏼👍🏼
Shame Harley Davidson has to stop the Evo sportster. I definitely would choose the BMW R18 over Harley Davidson touring models not a lover of those. Love the HD softail motorcycle though own 2 model's twin cam and M8. When Harley Davidson introduce the softail motorcycle in the 80s with the Evo engine the softail standard wow I dreamt of owning one. Stated on 883 great fun,Dyna's didn't really do it for me but the nightrain softail was my ambition. Actually got finance for one in 2006 but could not get insurance so got New 1200c sportster in black cherry pearl paint. Same colour the nightrain was available that year.
The R18 looks like old school Beemers. You know BMW made motorcycles before they made cars. They made airplane engines in WW1 and after that weren't allowed to, so they started making motorcycles in 1925 and it had a shaft drive! Cars came later.
Maybe u got a case of DIRTY KITTY BROTHER?🤔🤣🥳😎✌️
I love the shape of the exhaust but the standing seams makes it look like 1960s Japanese junk!
I don’t mind that but no problem 👍🏼