Appreciate the video. Gives the haters something new to comment on. I’ve got that bike, it’s wonderful. I’ve had HD’s myself in the past and I like them so I’m not going to diss them. The R18 is what it is, no bike is perfect. It’s classy and timeless.
Thanks for your video and personal opinion/comparison. I have owned 6 brand HD’s since 2003. I recently traded my 2021 HD Softail Slim for a 2021 BMW R18. In my opinion there is no comparison both comfort wise, specs wise and value for money. The R18 First Edition I bought comes standard with LED lights all round, shaft drive, triple disc adaptive brakes, cruise control, heated grips, adaptive headlight, three riding modes, much better vision from mirrors and the list goes on. I had intended to upgrade the Slim with a new Softail Lowrider 117 S but after test riding the Lowrider and R18 back to back on the same roads my choice was simple. The R18 for me is very comfortable (6’ tall, 95kgs) and the ride was so much smoother. I must admit I was getting sick of having to spend more money on upgrades and extras for my Harleys so when the R18 comes with the lot (except exhaust) the decision was even easier. Just compare what you get for the money and the ride/performance quality and it’s a no brainer for me. Oh, and wait until you park in a line up bikes….guess which is the attention grabber!
The joys of having so many motorcycles, you'll never please everyone with one bike, were all different and look for different things in a bikes. Not everyone will have the same opinion on them all. Enjoy your R18 Steve, Ride safe.
@@thelost_woods I don’t really notice the difference. I find the R18 economical generally so not a problem for me. The R18 is a better bike in my opinion after so many HD’s.
I traded a HD superglide custom for one of these . Mine has got the reverse on it and cost £13000 brand new but pre-reg 6 months earlier . I loved my Harley but this is a better bike in every way and much better to tour on . The brakes are absolutely fine ,I don't understand why you think they aren't!? Perhaps they're not bedded in (?) I keeping in rock mode and the torque is superb
That's the beauty of bikes, we are all different in what we perceive as good or bad, using one finger on the brakes and the lever would come back to my knuckles before it really started applying any brakes. They weren't sharp enough on the initial bite, as you say may be down to lack of use. I read about this reverse gear, how do you get it to work?
@@DSR1YT for the reverse you just put the bike in neutral ,press the reverse lever down then operate the start button . It's a really handy feature on heavy bike . I havnt actually used it in anger yet , I've just played with it .
@@stuartosborn4785 I have a bit of gravel in front of my garage so use the reverse every time I pull the bike out (backwards obviously). It’s fantastic. I’m no wimp but trying to push a bike in gravel is ridiculously hard. The reverse is not a gimmick, it really works well.
So i got a r18b and that motor in rock mode is way smoother then a harley. Owned 4 of them all new ones, still got a pan am, that boxer is so smooth off idle and yes doesnt have top end like a m 8 but no need to go over 4 g with that motor it has so much bottom end. More rhen any stock harley
Great review! Your riding impressions are spot on for this bike. I own the R18TC and the rake is more upright so it handles more nimbly(is this a word). Like the Harley, it has character for days.
Nicely done! You present a fair and straightforward review. With your priceless H-D experience and comparison to the R-18 underscores the whole presentation. Most critics & pundits agree that BMW Motorrad, in an effort to take a slice of the Cruiser market, is encroaching on Harley's home turf. To that end BMW has very much taken a giant leap forward with the R-18 line-up which is light-years ahead of anything else they've done. They've created a platform which, like the Harley's, is ripe for customizing. If BMW can generate a parts & accessory catalog that is half as thick as the Moto-Company's, then this model series will be a complete success IMHO.
R18 over the last 4 years only covers 4% of BMWs sales. People who own them rave about them, sadly there doesn't seem to be many people owning these. Ive not seen one in the wild yet.
very accurate review, I nearly did NOT buy an R18 Transcontinental even after 2 test rides. but i took a risk as the bike is a work of art, part of BMW history and i now live with typical BMW flawed genius. like the frikkin brakes. if Honda can do it on a Wing, BMW ought to be able also
I have the R18 Classic. Previously owned an HD Fat Bob. The FB is a beautiful looking bike and I really fancied the new Fat Boy but having ridden the R18 I knew that was the way I wanted to go. Not expecting anything like the residuals I had with my HD but it's not all about the money. The ride is what counts. My 18 has an ECU tune via BrenTune. Makes for a far smoother ride.
A lot of people seem to really like the R18 which i am really pleased to hear, ignore my opinions :) and ride what makes you happy at the end of the day. Enjoy your R18 and ride safe
I own a Fatboy 131 (Stage 4 tune) and Bought a first edition R18 as it was something different, love the two bikes the beemer if ridden hard rides more like a big naked than a cruiser and never had a problem with my brakes, but my intention is to reduce the weight with a bobber kit and slip ons there a bargain bike at the moment mine had all the toys with just 3k for 10k from the dealers with 3yrs warranty. Still love my Harley though but different bikes.
I'm deciding between these 2 bikes also. I love the aesthetics of the Fat Bob and recently been looking at BMW adventure bikes when I came across a few deals for R18's. Thousands less than the Fat Bob. Which do you think would have the longer lifespan? I'm leaning at the BMW
Two great bikes, id probably agree with you and go for BMW if you are looking at keeping it for a longer period of time. On the other hand i would say Harleys will keep their value for longer, this is just my opinion without doing much research into it. Always take with a pinch of salt :). You wont be disappointed with either of these bikes though. Ride safe.
My experience is the HD will hold its value better, however it is not all about the money. Ride both and see what you think. For me, the R18 was the more forgiving bike.
@@dipseadiver Agreed, people shouldn't be making up their mind which bike to buy from watching YT videos, these should give you a feel for the bike before jumping on one, but you always need to test the bikes out for yourself. Also its the fun part of looking for a new bike isn't it?
Great review! And I can appreciate the comparison to a Harley. 👍🏻 I have a Road King Special and will be moving towards more of a cruiser bike so letting that go and trying to decide between the R18 100yrs Edition and the Rocket 3R Chrome Edition. Test rides booked for next weekend! Any thoughts on R18 vs Rocket 3R? Cheers!
Thanks for the comment. A lot of people have disagreed with my opinion on this and the Harley. I’m yet to ride a rocket 3 so I wouldn’t want to give an uneducated comment. Sorry 😁.
I saw the both bikes in person yesterday and local dealership. Rocket 3R is such a different bike to compare.... I like both for different reasons. I think that 100yrs Edition is beautiful and the AKR exhaust is very nice touch... How did the test drives go? Exhaust note on the R18?
@@GonzoZener Test rides went really well! Rocket 3R flies around corners, rips in 3rd gear, is pretty comfy, and sounds solid. BUT I fell in love with the R18 100yr Edition. Super smooth, really comfortable, and as a 6’3” 250 lb guy I don’t really feel that boxer kick as much as other people say. It’s a real pleasure to ride and you won’t be able to stop looking at it! Exhaust note is throaty but not super loud. I pick it up next weekend. 😎🥳
Thank you@@SmartWatchDumbPhone Big price difference in my neighborhood. The 3R cost quite a bit more.... However overall I still think the R18 100yr E. looks better. I think you made a great choice. Happy riding.
It's got more tech than the fatbob and when you pull the front brake it's also linked to the back brake mustn't have bedded in on your test ride boxer engine's also take ages to bed in
Sadly that’s one of the down sides to mainly taking out demo bikes. I know some but not all bikes are somewhat better/smoother etc after the first service. Felt a difference in my new KTM GT.
I appreciate the ‘art’ factor, but too many drawbacks to consider as a daily cruiser. The small tank and no fuel gauge cancels it out for me to be considered as a tourer . I think after a short time with it and when the novelty factor wears thin you’d be considering something else. Probably why they have a huge depreciation curve and take your choice of second hand low mileage examples.
As mentioned in the title, I’m only comparing it to the Fatbob as I own the Fatbob. It’s a bike I feel comfortable in comparing it too. Yet to ride the sport glide, hopefully that will change soon though.
I sold my recently purchased and new Harley sport glide for a new R18 and it’s the best decision I’ve made in years . The R18 is a much better bike in Every way !
@@DSR1YT Interestingly enough, I own a 2018 Sport Glide, already well set up.... 6" risers on stock bars, Saddlemen Explorer seat, mustache bars with pegs, 9" gustafsson wind screen and smart phone mount on the handlebar. Bike has cruise control, too. The forward pegs are awesome, compared to the mids on the BMW. the toe piece for the front shifter is way too short or too fat inwards with the floorboards on this bike to be easy to access. Also spoiled by the huge brake pedal on the Sport Glide compared to what's on the BMW bagger. Storage capacity on the Bags on the Sport Glide is absolutely huge compared to the BMW bags... the interior looks like they were built like an ice chest to keep your Bavarian Micro brew cold with lost space inside due to insulation really cutting down on the internal sq footage of capacity. Also, bags on the Sport Glide are quick removable if you want to go for the club or bobber clean look, as is the Sport Glide baby fairing, it unclips. It's a tough trade off. I own all german cars, and my HD is an annoying clunker with almost every shift. Service, with draining 3 holes, in this day and age, as well as still having chain drive to clutch and gearbox, as well as a chain driven cam.... for such an expensive motorcycle brand.... just seems outdated. I keep my exhaust on my Sport Glide box stock... at 64, I don't need to hear how a motorcycle sounds. I am really looking hard at the BMW Bagger, but at 6'5" and 270#, I just don't think I can get the mid floor boards and shifter as well as the foot brake to work for me with the ergonomics. The price is certainly quite attractive.
I still find it surreal that BMW is chasing Harley's market by building a cruiser, whilst HD has entered the adventure market dominated(??) by BMW with their Panamerica. The grass is always greener on the other side....... The rocking side-to-side is reminiscent of the old heavy flywheel air-cooled R100s (and Guzzis). You really notice it when you're cranked over and up it --- then miss a gear!
I tried the PanAM at this years NEC, had a very stretched out ergonomics for me, ie seat, pegs and handlebar. It was ok standing but sat down it felt quite strange. I wonder how it feels on road, as the GS is great on and off road.
Great review, unfortunately disagree with you about a comparison between a Harley Fatboy and the Bavarian...that sit on the Harley is a dead trap it shouldbe illegal!..riding my Fatboy I been hit from behind by a Toyota and that sit catapulted me up in the air, breaking almost every bones in my body....not to mention the gearbox and the rest...if you cut the nostalgic crap out 😢 the Harley is an agricultural machine beside the BMW.
Hay there, appreciate the comment and your views, it annoys me when people comment on my videos by just telling me my opinions are wrong and don’t go any further than that. I’m more than happy for people not to agree with me, that’s the beauty of bikes, loads out there to suit different types of people. Hopefully you’ve recovered from your nasty accident and are back on two wheels.
@@DSR1YT thank you for your reply...didn't meant to upset you just got annoyed by your comment about the sit and gearbox on the HD!..I'm 69 years old had many Harleys, Bmws and Ducaties, loved and hated them all...now I'm riding an MV Agusta dragster. I respect your opinion, just wanted to draw your attention to the HD sit from personal experience, I was hit from behind by an idiot Toyota driver on the Williams St Sydney CBD that I flew across five lines!..the HD's gearbox design is a product of a shameless cost-cutting exercise. Helical and Straight cut gears in a same box!?..HD's designers must have smoked some bad stuff when they came up with the idea!..their reasoning not acceptable for a premium brand and damaging its reputation. Keep riding and make more comparison tests you're the best.
@@la-kov7611 Apologies, I wasn't saying your comment upset me, I was saying there is many a viewer who just comments and tells me im wrong but doesn't like to share their thoughts. You've disagreed and then explained why you think what you think, im more than happy for people like yourself to comment :). Appreciate your last sentence, plenty of videos coming weekly for as long as the weather holds out. Ride safe.
I'm not a HD fan by any means, but I'd choose the Fat Bob over this contraption by BMW. They could have made a modernized BMW R5 replica and easily sell a tons of it, but they opted for a not very successful frankencruiser.
They’ve managed to cover a few basis with this one platform, ie the standard cruiser, your bagger and hard tail styles. They’ve given buyers a different option over your standard Harley’s which is never a bad thing in my eyes.
Sold my New Harley for a New R18 . Best decision I’ve made in years and the R18 is absolutely better in every way . Had Many bikes in my 50 years of riding so I don’t say this lightly !
Your weak response shows that the truth hurts. But don't worry, once you stop sucking Harleys teat, you will wake up to realize that their are many other motorcycle out their worthy of your reviews. Since Harley went WOKE, they will soon be a memory of the past.
We’ll set up Harleys sound nice, agreed 100%. I’ve owned 4 over the years (all stage 1). The boxer can never sound like that because it’s a totally different engine however it’s got its own sound, like a WW1 bi plane, it’s not loud BUT when you ride it, combined with the gear and final drive whine and rifle bolt clicks as you change gears it’s a marvellous soundtrack. I have a R18. This vid does not capture it. Just sayin.
@@jfro5867 I seen few fly by around me and it sound like bigger GS 😞 Meybe some aftermarket exhaust will do the trick.... Doesn't sound like 1,8l engine until you are full throtle. Didn't ride one one yet 🤐
@@davca117 Hi, yea it’s not a noisy bike and I wouldn’t try to pretend it was but when on board it does have a nice sound to it. It’s a mellow relaxing sound. Personally I don’t think the boxer engine sounds that nice at all when loud like a HD does so given the choice I would leave it as it is. I love my fishtails! Safe riding 👍
I’m sure some people will love what this bike has to offer, sadly it isn’t my cup of tea, doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy taking these bikes out though. Ride safe.
Hey, brain surgeon, BMW designed this after their 1936 R5, so the look is true to their heritage. Harley, too, has stayed true to their heritage by continuing to produce unreliable motorcycles. This Berlin built beast lays waste to the Brazil and Thailand built WOKE HD's.
This bike turned out to be one of BMWs flops. 👎, they have to give people up to $8k off, and 0%Finance to move this turd, and even then, they collect dust in the showroom 🤦🏻
Well, 20k have been sold worldwide since launch so that’s decent numbers. We all know HD have been bailed out time and time again in America to stop them from going bust. There’s been resistance and negativity (from some like you) in America towards the bike because they want it to fail. This ‘turd’ is a very beautiful bike, I own one. I’ve had 4 Harleys over the years and I like them too but they are very divisive to own. People put you into two camps 1) Wild Hogs mid life crisis/divorced dentist or 2) tattooed yob with dubious facial hair, pot belly, badges, cut off jeans jacket and of course a chained HD wallet. That’s the reality of owning a HD. The R18 is never ever going to appeal to younger riders because it has no attraction for them, it’s a 1930’s Art Deco design. This is why HD has struggled so much deciding what it wants to be going forward. They’ve binned a whole range of bikes recently. You know this is true. It’s a niche market. A tough market.
@@jfro5867 I'm 61, and my "current" Bikes are a 2021 R9T-719 Option, (Stunning Black & Aluminum) and a 2023 Triumph 900-GT-Pro, But it's that "Classic" Bullshit look of the R-18, is what people are Frankly sick of, Hence the lousy sales (And no ground Clearance) Perhaps if they modernized the look ??, but in it's original form, it looks like a 2004 Harley Fat-Boy. I'm a fan of the Boxer Engine, I've owned 3, but that Classic styling is just so late 90's, it's played out, it's Jump the Shark. Put a modern twist on the look, and maybe people will like it, cause as I said, if you have to give people money to buy your Bike, then someone needs to get their head out of their Ass and figure out why ??
It doesn't need to match a HD, it is BMW'S take on a cruiser. It's different, not the same, why keep making comparisons to other brands. Iv you like an HD buy one, if you don't but something els FFS
Not sure what your hostility is about Bondo. Something about projecting your own insecurities out… ride safe on your R18 🤙 P.S. Don’t forget to be kinder on the internet.
Appreciate the video. Gives the haters something new to comment on. I’ve got that bike, it’s wonderful. I’ve had HD’s myself in the past and I like them so I’m not going to diss them. The R18 is what it is, no bike is perfect. It’s classy and timeless.
Thanks Jon. There will always be haters in the world. As long as you enjoy your ride then stuff em 😁
Had a road test two weeks ago having had heart surgery at 63yrs but wow just brought a first edition very happy
Glad to hear you’re still out on two wheels. Enjoy the ride. 🤙
Thanks for your video and personal opinion/comparison. I have owned 6 brand HD’s since 2003. I recently traded my 2021 HD Softail Slim for a 2021 BMW R18. In my opinion there is no comparison both comfort wise, specs wise and value for money. The R18 First Edition I bought comes standard with LED lights all round, shaft drive, triple disc adaptive brakes, cruise control, heated grips, adaptive headlight, three riding modes, much better vision from mirrors and the list goes on. I had intended to upgrade the Slim with a new Softail Lowrider 117 S but after test riding the Lowrider and R18 back to back on the same roads my choice was simple. The R18 for me is very comfortable (6’ tall, 95kgs) and the ride was so much smoother. I must admit I was getting sick of having to spend more money on upgrades and extras for my Harleys so when the R18 comes with the lot (except exhaust) the decision was even easier. Just compare what you get for the money and the ride/performance quality and it’s a no brainer for me. Oh, and wait until you park in a line up bikes….guess which is the attention grabber!
The joys of having so many motorcycles, you'll never please everyone with one bike, were all different and look for different things in a bikes. Not everyone will have the same opinion on them all. Enjoy your R18 Steve, Ride safe.
Do you notice the slightly smaller tank capacity or no? I'm in the same boat I have a 2020 Slim but am intrigued with the Beemer.
@@thelost_woods I don’t really notice the difference. I find the R18 economical generally so not a problem for me. The R18 is a better bike in my opinion after so many HD’s.
I’d love to give the R18 bagger a go, i think that looks really nice.
I traded a HD superglide custom for one of these . Mine has got the reverse on it and cost £13000 brand new but pre-reg 6 months earlier . I loved my Harley but this is a better bike in every way and much better to tour on . The brakes are absolutely fine ,I don't understand why you think they aren't!? Perhaps they're not bedded in (?)
I keeping in rock mode and the torque is superb
That's the beauty of bikes, we are all different in what we perceive as good or bad, using one finger on the brakes and the lever would come back to my knuckles before it really started applying any brakes. They weren't sharp enough on the initial bite, as you say may be down to lack of use.
I read about this reverse gear, how do you get it to work?
@@DSR1YT for the reverse you just put the bike in neutral ,press the reverse lever down then operate the start button . It's a really handy feature on heavy bike . I havnt actually used it in anger yet , I've just played with it .
@@stuartosborn4785 I have a bit of gravel in front of my garage so use the reverse every time I pull the bike out (backwards obviously). It’s fantastic. I’m no wimp but trying to push a bike in gravel is ridiculously hard. The reverse is not a gimmick, it really works well.
I'm impressed by how smooth the engine is, no vibration at all on my r18b
I really like the look of the R18B over the standard R18. You made a great choice my friend. Ride safe.
Greetings,
As always another brilliant detailed video production 🇺🇲🍾🎉🇺🇲
The best R 18 review UA-cam video.
Keep producing more videos
Wow thanks mate. Glad to hear you think so. Summer is finally about to show its head over the pond so more reviews starting to appear soon 😁🤙
So i got a r18b and that motor in rock mode is way smoother then a harley. Owned 4 of them all new ones, still got a pan am, that boxer is so smooth off idle and yes doesnt have top end like a m 8 but no need to go over 4 g with that motor it has so much bottom end. More rhen any stock harley
I really like the bagger version of this, looks a lot better than the stock version IMO. Glad you are enjoying your R18B, Ride safe.
Great review! Your riding impressions are spot on for this bike. I own the R18TC and the rake is more upright so it handles more nimbly(is this a word). Like the Harley, it has character for days.
Thanks Dean, glad you enjoyed the video. Ride safe and enjoy your R18TC.
Nicely done! You present a fair and straightforward review. With your priceless H-D experience and comparison to the R-18 underscores the whole presentation. Most critics & pundits agree that BMW Motorrad, in an effort to take a slice of the Cruiser market, is encroaching on Harley's home turf. To that end BMW has very much taken a giant leap forward with the R-18 line-up which is light-years ahead of anything else they've done. They've created a platform which, like the Harley's, is ripe for customizing. If BMW can generate a parts & accessory catalog that is half as thick as the Moto-Company's, then this model series will be a complete success IMHO.
R18 over the last 4 years only covers 4% of BMWs sales. People who own them rave about them, sadly there doesn't seem to be many people owning these. Ive not seen one in the wild yet.
only just found your channel love it great review
That’s great to hear Allan. Welcome to the channel. 🤙🤙
Comprehensive, informative review- well done!
Thanks Stephen, welcome to the channel.
very accurate review, I nearly did NOT buy an R18 Transcontinental even after 2 test rides. but i took a risk as the bike is a work of art, part of BMW history and i now live with typical BMW flawed genius. like the frikkin brakes. if Honda can do it on a Wing, BMW ought to be able also
We are our own worst nightmares 🤣. I’m glad you enjoyed the review and agree with my thoughts 😁🤙
I have the R18 Classic. Previously owned an HD Fat Bob. The FB is a beautiful looking bike and I really fancied the new Fat Boy but having ridden the R18 I knew that was the way I wanted to go. Not expecting anything like the residuals I had with my HD but it's not all about the money. The ride is what counts. My 18 has an ECU tune via BrenTune. Makes for a far smoother ride.
A lot of people seem to really like the R18 which i am really pleased to hear, ignore my opinions :) and ride what makes you happy at the end of the day. Enjoy your R18 and ride safe
I own a Fatboy 131 (Stage 4 tune) and Bought a first edition R18 as it was something different, love the two bikes the beemer if ridden hard rides more like a big naked than a cruiser and never had a problem with my brakes, but my intention is to reduce the weight with a bobber kit and slip ons there a bargain bike at the moment mine had all the toys with just 3k for 10k from the dealers with 3yrs warranty. Still love my Harley though but different bikes.
There's me comparing between them both, then there's you with them both haha. Glad your able to have both mate, not jealous :)
Good ol' Dick Lovett and Seymour Butts.
I'm deciding between these 2 bikes also. I love the aesthetics of the Fat Bob and recently been looking at BMW adventure bikes when I came across a few deals for R18's. Thousands less than the Fat Bob. Which do you think would have the longer lifespan? I'm leaning at the BMW
Two great bikes, id probably agree with you and go for BMW if you are looking at keeping it for a longer period of time. On the other hand i would say Harleys will keep their value for longer, this is just my opinion without doing much research into it. Always take with a pinch of salt :). You wont be disappointed with either of these bikes though. Ride safe.
My experience is the HD will hold its value better, however it is not all about the money. Ride both and see what you think. For me, the R18 was the more forgiving bike.
@@dipseadiver not worried about value. All about reliability, longevity, and durability
@@dipseadiver Agreed, people shouldn't be making up their mind which bike to buy from watching YT videos, these should give you a feel for the bike before jumping on one, but you always need to test the bikes out for yourself. Also its the fun part of looking for a new bike isn't it?
@@daveb7801 Hi Dave. I found my HD to be very reliable and hoping the same for my R18. The R18 is full of nice 'quality' touches.
excellent vid! digging it......
Appreciate the comment. Glad you enjoyed the video. Ride safe.
when you are paying a premium price one would expect a comfortable seat regardless of which manufacture
Something many manufacturers seem to forget :)
Great review! And I can appreciate the comparison to a Harley. 👍🏻
I have a Road King Special and will be moving towards more of a cruiser bike so letting that go and trying to decide between the R18 100yrs Edition and the Rocket 3R Chrome Edition. Test rides booked for next weekend!
Any thoughts on R18 vs Rocket 3R? Cheers!
Thanks for the comment. A lot of people have disagreed with my opinion on this and the Harley.
I’m yet to ride a rocket 3 so I wouldn’t want to give an uneducated comment. Sorry 😁.
I saw the both bikes in person yesterday and local dealership. Rocket 3R is such a different bike to compare.... I like both for different reasons. I think that 100yrs Edition is beautiful and the AKR exhaust is very nice touch... How did the test drives go? Exhaust note on the R18?
@@GonzoZener Test rides went really well! Rocket 3R flies around corners, rips in 3rd gear, is pretty comfy, and sounds solid. BUT I fell in love with the R18 100yr Edition. Super smooth, really comfortable, and as a 6’3” 250 lb guy I don’t really feel that boxer kick as much as other people say. It’s a real pleasure to ride and you won’t be able to stop looking at it! Exhaust note is throaty but not super loud.
I pick it up next weekend. 😎🥳
Thank you@@SmartWatchDumbPhone Big price difference in my neighborhood. The 3R cost quite a bit more.... However overall I still think the R18 100yr E. looks better. I think you made a great choice. Happy riding.
Sounds like you had an eventful day test riding. Enjoy your new ride my friend. Ride safe.
It's got more tech than the fatbob and when you pull the front brake it's also linked to the back brake mustn't have bedded in on your test ride boxer engine's also take ages to bed in
Sadly that’s one of the down sides to mainly taking out demo bikes. I know some but not all bikes are somewhat better/smoother etc after the first service. Felt a difference in my new KTM GT.
Couldn’t buy a HD. The image of the brand totally puts me off.
Id only be able to have on as a second bike, there isn't one on their line up that suits my needs to have as a sole bike.
I appreciate the ‘art’ factor, but too many drawbacks to consider as a daily cruiser. The small tank and no fuel gauge cancels it out for me to be considered as a tourer . I think after a short time with it and when the novelty factor wears thin you’d be considering something else. Probably why they have a huge depreciation curve and take your choice of second hand low mileage examples.
What about comparing it to the HD sport Glide ?
As mentioned in the title, I’m only comparing it to the Fatbob as I own the Fatbob. It’s a bike I feel comfortable in comparing it too. Yet to ride the sport glide, hopefully that will change soon though.
@@DSR1YT would be great because the Sport Glide does have a Fearing and some Touring feature, plus it’s not as expensive 😊
I sold my recently purchased and new Harley sport glide for a new R18 and it’s the best decision I’ve made in years . The R18 is a much better bike in Every way !
@@DSR1YT Interestingly enough, I own a 2018 Sport Glide, already well set up.... 6" risers on stock bars, Saddlemen Explorer seat, mustache bars with pegs, 9" gustafsson wind screen and smart phone mount on the handlebar. Bike has cruise control, too. The forward pegs are awesome, compared to the mids on the BMW. the toe piece for the front shifter is way too short or too fat inwards with the floorboards on this bike to be easy to access. Also spoiled by the huge brake pedal on the Sport Glide compared to what's on the BMW bagger. Storage capacity on the Bags on the Sport Glide is absolutely huge compared to the BMW bags... the interior looks like they were built like an ice chest to keep your Bavarian Micro brew cold with lost space inside due to insulation really cutting down on the internal sq footage of capacity. Also, bags on the Sport Glide are quick removable if you want to go for the club or bobber clean look, as is the Sport Glide baby fairing, it unclips. It's a tough trade off. I own all german cars, and my HD is an annoying clunker with almost every shift. Service, with draining 3 holes, in this day and age, as well as still having chain drive to clutch and gearbox, as well as a chain driven cam.... for such an expensive motorcycle brand.... just seems outdated. I keep my exhaust on my Sport Glide box stock... at 64, I don't need to hear how a motorcycle sounds. I am really looking hard at the BMW Bagger, but at 6'5" and 270#, I just don't think I can get the mid floor boards and shifter as well as the foot brake to work for me with the ergonomics. The price is certainly quite attractive.
I still find it surreal that BMW is chasing Harley's market by building a cruiser, whilst HD has entered the adventure market dominated(??) by BMW with their Panamerica. The grass is always greener on the other side.......
The rocking side-to-side is reminiscent of the old heavy flywheel air-cooled R100s (and Guzzis). You really notice it when you're cranked over and up it --- then miss a gear!
I tried the PanAM at this years NEC, had a very stretched out ergonomics for me, ie seat, pegs and handlebar. It was ok standing but sat down it felt quite strange. I wonder how it feels on road, as the GS is great on and off road.
I don't think BMW is chasing HD. BMW has their own heritage bikes. R18 is great bike.
Great review, unfortunately disagree with you about a comparison between a Harley Fatboy and the Bavarian...that sit on the Harley is a dead trap it shouldbe illegal!..riding my Fatboy I been hit from behind by a Toyota and that sit catapulted me up in the air, breaking almost every bones in my body....not to mention the gearbox and the rest...if you cut the nostalgic crap out 😢 the Harley is an agricultural machine beside the BMW.
Hay there, appreciate the comment and your views, it annoys me when people comment on my videos by just telling me my opinions are wrong and don’t go any further than that. I’m more than happy for people not to agree with me, that’s the beauty of bikes, loads out there to suit different types of people. Hopefully you’ve recovered from your nasty accident and are back on two wheels.
@@DSR1YT thank you for your reply...didn't meant to upset you just got annoyed by your comment about the sit and gearbox on the HD!..I'm 69 years old had many Harleys, Bmws and Ducaties, loved and hated them all...now I'm riding an MV Agusta dragster.
I respect your opinion, just wanted to draw your attention to the HD sit from personal experience, I was hit from behind by an idiot Toyota driver on the Williams St Sydney CBD that I flew across five lines!..the HD's gearbox design is a product of a shameless cost-cutting exercise. Helical and Straight cut gears in a same box!?..HD's designers must have smoked some bad stuff when they came up with the idea!..their reasoning not acceptable for a premium brand and damaging its reputation.
Keep riding and make more comparison tests you're the best.
@@la-kov7611 Apologies, I wasn't saying your comment upset me, I was saying there is many a viewer who just comments and tells me im wrong but doesn't like to share their thoughts. You've disagreed and then explained why you think what you think, im more than happy for people like yourself to comment :).
Appreciate your last sentence, plenty of videos coming weekly for as long as the weather holds out. Ride safe.
I'm not a HD fan by any means, but I'd choose the Fat Bob over this contraption by BMW. They could have made a modernized BMW R5 replica and easily sell a tons of it, but they opted for a not very successful frankencruiser.
They’ve managed to cover a few basis with this one platform, ie the standard cruiser, your bagger and hard tail styles. They’ve given buyers a different option over your standard Harley’s which is never a bad thing in my eyes.
naa
Sold my New Harley for a New R18 . Best decision I’ve made in years and the R18 is absolutely better in every way . Had Many bikes in my 50 years of riding so I don’t say this lightly !
We’ve each got our own views on bikes. Otherwise we’d all be riding the same bike. Enjoy your R18.
Your weak response shows that the truth hurts. But don't worry, once you stop sucking Harleys teat, you will wake up to realize that their are many other motorcycle out their worthy of your reviews. Since Harley went WOKE, they will soon be a memory of the past.
One of my favourite rides home. The route not the bike. Cant afford the bike. Give it five years.
And you still won’t be able to afford it with inflation 😁
I like R18 but... Sound sucks so much 😥 I would rather buy Street Glide ST....
We’ll set up Harleys sound nice, agreed 100%. I’ve owned 4 over the years (all stage 1). The boxer can never sound like that because it’s a totally different engine however it’s got its own sound, like a WW1 bi plane, it’s not loud BUT when you ride it, combined with the gear and final drive whine and rifle bolt clicks as you change gears it’s a marvellous soundtrack. I have a R18. This vid does not capture it. Just sayin.
@@jfro5867 I seen few fly by around me and it sound like bigger GS 😞 Meybe some aftermarket exhaust will do the trick.... Doesn't sound like 1,8l engine until you are full throtle.
Didn't ride one one yet 🤐
@@davca117 Hi, yea it’s not a noisy bike and I wouldn’t try to pretend it was but when on board it does have a nice sound to it. It’s a mellow relaxing sound. Personally I don’t think the boxer engine sounds that nice at all when loud like a HD does so given the choice I would leave it as it is. I love my fishtails! Safe riding 👍
It could do with some extra grunt in the sound department ill give you that.
naa
17k to have a aching bum and get shook to bits and on a wing and a prayer to stop. I guess it wont be one of BMW's best sellers.
I’m sure some people will love what this bike has to offer, sadly it isn’t my cup of tea, doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy taking these bikes out though. Ride safe.
Awesome bike but that exhaust looks hideous. Get rid of the fish tail look and it would be perfect.
I’ve no doubt there’s plenty of aftermarket exhausts out there that will sort this right out.
Hey, brain surgeon, BMW designed this after their 1936 R5, so the look is true to their heritage. Harley, too, has stayed true to their heritage by continuing to produce unreliable motorcycles. This Berlin built beast lays waste to the Brazil and Thailand built WOKE HD's.
Shows you that if you ride an HD long enough....This BMW is much more refined than any HD ever produced. Since HD went WOKE, it's a hard pass for me 😮
this bike will last 50 years the harley 6 years
These just like Harley seem to not sell very well though. I wonder why that is 🤷🏻♂️
This bike turned out to be one of BMWs flops. 👎, they have to give people up to $8k off, and 0%Finance to move this turd, and even then, they collect dust in the showroom 🤦🏻
And yet all the R18 owners have hated on me for preferring my Fatbob 🤨🤐🤣
@@DSR1YT
I would prefer the H-D as well. The R18 needs to modernize its look, that older classic style no longer appeals to younger demographic.
I know what you mean. but will they listen, that’s the question.
Well, 20k have been sold worldwide since launch so that’s decent numbers. We all know HD have been bailed out time and time again in America to stop them from going bust. There’s been resistance and negativity (from some like you) in America towards the bike because they want it to fail. This ‘turd’ is a very beautiful bike, I own one. I’ve had 4 Harleys over the years and I like them too but they are very divisive to own. People put you into two camps 1) Wild Hogs mid life crisis/divorced dentist or 2) tattooed yob with dubious facial hair, pot belly, badges, cut off jeans jacket and of course a chained HD wallet. That’s the reality of owning a HD. The R18 is never ever going to appeal to younger riders because it has no attraction for them, it’s a 1930’s Art Deco design. This is why HD has struggled so much deciding what it wants to be going forward. They’ve binned a whole range of bikes recently. You know this is true. It’s a niche market. A tough market.
@@jfro5867
I'm 61, and my "current" Bikes are a 2021 R9T-719 Option, (Stunning Black & Aluminum) and a 2023 Triumph 900-GT-Pro, But it's that "Classic" Bullshit look of the R-18, is what people are Frankly sick of, Hence the lousy sales (And no ground Clearance) Perhaps if they modernized the look ??, but in it's original form, it looks like a 2004 Harley Fat-Boy.
I'm a fan of the Boxer Engine, I've owned 3, but that Classic styling is just so late 90's, it's played out, it's Jump the Shark.
Put a modern twist on the look, and maybe people will like it, cause as I said, if you have to give people money to buy your Bike, then someone needs to get their head out of their Ass and figure out why ??
It doesn't need to match a HD, it is BMW'S take on a cruiser. It's different, not the same, why keep making comparisons to other brands. Iv you like an HD buy one, if you don't but something els FFS
So no one is ever allowed to compare anything to any other brand? You sound like a real hoot.
@@DSR1YT not what I meant, but do all non sports bikes have to be the same as an HD?
being a harley freak probably not the best reviewer ( bias )
Not bias at all. Owned a Harley for 8 months and that’s all. It’s now sold for a BMW. Now I own a BMW am I not allowed to review any other brands?
Bmw R18 is a better bike..
Everyone’s allowed their own opinions 😁
@DSR1YT the review is based on a lardass rider who states the obvious, ....
but you are missing the point here..
Not sure what your hostility is about Bondo. Something about projecting your own insecurities out… ride safe on your R18 🤙 P.S. Don’t forget to be kinder on the internet.
‘Ya’ is not a substitute for your. Come on Bondo, you’re better than that.
I reckon you pretend to the shop owner you are going to buy this bike ,but lie..
It's a fair comment.