When you mentioned BMW spending the R&D on the engine it all became clear. They haven't done that for one model so expect something similar to the R9T (R18T?) and maybe even something touring or GS like. There's a lot of headroom for power at 50hp/l.
The world is a better place with Zack and Ari in it. Props to Revzilla for giving you both a platform to put out new content -- especially one that we all can see!
Randomly seeing your homie when you're out on a ride is one of life's little joys. That is awesome. This motorbike is not for me, but I guess someone will like it.
So for those talking about him dragging the pegs, My guess is the preload wasn't set on the rear suspension. It comes set at ZERO and you need to adjust it to account for rider weight and accessories/bags. The suspension preload seems to be something that dealers are overlooking on the checkout and delivery.
@@missingremote4388 This was the test ride. It appears that the BMW dealers (Globally) are not following proper procedure on the new R18's and setting the rear suspension preload. When shipped, it comes set at ZERO so as to allow them to compress the suspension to allow it not to move in shipping. During the assembly and checkout ride, the dealer should have adjusted the rear shock preload for road use. Failure to do this will make the motorcycle bottom out, rough ride and drag the pegs. Both the dealer example and my personal R18 were delivered with the preset at ZERO. Once corrected the bike is a totally different animal. I hope this clarifies the issues as to why many of the press people are dragging pegs in the simplest of maneuvers.
@@laryangel4082 I guess if you still possess the mentality of a 17 Year old going through puberty, and think that the performance of a bike is judged by whether it can pop a wheelie it would disappoint you. If I want to pop a wheelie, I'll do it on my K1600GTL.. I own an R18 because it is a retro-styled cruiser.
Frankly, I love my bmw r18. I bought this over fat boy primarily because the harley dealerships have become so greedy with markups... I was fed up... Went to bmw and bought this. Didn't think too much and 800 miles later I am glad I bought this. Have been riding this over my Harley FXDR... And I am hooked on R18... What a bike! Go for this bike, you will not be disappointed especially in ROCK mode.
This is absolutely a "throwback" to a 100-year-old design. The 1937 BMW R5. The entire bike, not just the tank. Check it out. It's an amazing bike... and a design that evolved the medium and is still felt today.
I just love these guys. Stoked Revzilla picked up their content. It doesn’t seem that they try to be the best Moto content guys, but I think that’s what makes them the best. Pure Moto enthusiasm. It’s refreshing and always appreciated. Cheers boys!
I'm not sure if someone has already commented, but the R18 is based on the original 1936 BMW R5. So as for heritage, yes: it's there. I'm no BMW fanboy, but this might be the bike that gets me interested in a cruiser.
It’s a shame the rear shock wasn’t set up for you. My R18 rarely drags legs except on the very tightest of turns. The seat I definitely agree with, changed mine for a Mustang and it’s transformed it for me. So comfortable and you sit slightly higher so you also get more leg room.
Checked it out today and right away hit me in the “feels”. The retro look, quality...open dive shaft, WTF..... I’m a “senior “ cruiser guy, so scraping a foot peg not the way I ride. Ordered it. Will go nicely with my Softail .
The heritage you say doesn't exist that you referenced is the airhead boxer heritage. This heritage absolutely does exist and is its own type of bike. Many of these old airheads are still on the road today. This design is an homage to the 1930s - 1990s classic airhead-- almost 100 year old design that is applied to a modern cruiser beast. I love the automatic balance that my old '70s airhead produces when I Rev up past 3k rpm. I'm glad that old BMW symmetry is not lost to time.
I love the reviews that Zack does: entertaining and informative. I am, however, able to separate facts from opinion. Keep in mind that every rider is different in riding style and preference. Zach is no exception. His preference is not for a bike like this as stated in a different video. I watch this review and read all of the comments. With the exception of Zach, there seems to be a lot of people weighing in on this bike without ever riding it. I went and rode one for myself. Great test ride with no scraping pegs. Keep in mind, I don't ride it like a sport bike.... This bike is not for everyone. I wasn't meant to be. Some people like the lower seat height for a variety of reasons. I would find any bike that has a 31"+ seat height as a negative. The looks of this bike are definitely different. You should take one for a ride and decide for yourself. Be careful , you may wind up buying one like I did. Thanks again Zach for the entertain review.
I have a BMW r1200r and really enjoy it...it's one of my favourite bikes of all time..I will not test ride an R18 because I know I will buy it!! hundred percent agree with your post.. take care enjoy your Bad to the Bone BMW bike! 👍
I’d be interested to see a bagger version. Way too much dragging on corners for me though. Wish they would have just built a new R80 type of bike, proper retro for BMW.
They tried to compete with Harley and failed in every way, IDK why these are selling so well when Harley offers a motorcycle that is better in every way, for less.
I often go to work on a bmw test track and see the prototypes, and I can tell you there are a LOT of baggers, tourers, etc versions of this bike being developped. Wait a bit and you'll probably see a bagger r18
I road this bad boy today at Sandia BMW of Albuquerque in a full race suit with size 12 SIDI boots. She's not cramped and my feet weren't hitting the cylinders, about an inch off. I will say the kickstand is a pain to put up with the race boots, but that's it. Absolutely EVERYONE loves the look of this thing and you one it! Doesn't wheelie though...
Considering he’s not a cruiser guy he was pretty complementary. A few added details 2 years later. These ‘21 FEs were $13999 all day. My ‘21 FE Classic was $15988. Both had BMW incentives that took that down about $1900. Fairly, this model is no more a touring cruiser than an Ultra is a run around town grocery getter. Most buyers took these as a bit of a throwback, wanting something other than the stereotypical American cruiser. It’s not for everyone just like the H2 isn’t for everyone. If you’re a dyed in the wool HD guy you’re probably too entrenched in that style to be tempted. Maybe not. The Classic version (think Heritage) is much more rider comfort and distance friendly. The biggest knock will be the seat (pretty hard) and the often refilled 4.2 g tank. I’ve done 350 mile days with zero issues. A set of engine guards with footrests solve most of the issues over a long ride.
Any gas gauge? Love that bike, clean, nostalgic, modern, with reverse, keyless, gear indicator. Convert that to bobber-cafe, with drag bars, kuryakyn mirrors and accessories. Fat grippy tires. All set. Just keep filling gas and oil changes, needs nothing else. For me, no bike is ready for my like but this one seems a little easy. Like when u did the dirt. And those scrapping pegs. Nice review and video.
"it only has 90 horsepower so its not a ton" meanwhile im over here with my 90's sportster 1200 making a monolithic 57 trying my best to knock the pegs off and fry my tires everywhere i go
@@the.communist I mean, shoot, 24 hp in my CRF250L Rally is enough to blast me to highway speed of 75+ mph (which I do regularly) - 57 to 90bhp is plenty for cruising and touring!
I have zero desire to ride bikes like these but I can't stop watching these reviews! Plus, as an animal lover, Zac turning around to try and save the dog was way cool.Thanks!
The instant you initiated the turn at the railroad tracks I literally blurted out, “Oh my word Zach!” My heart dropped at the thought of the R18 in the dirt. 😂
Love the minimalism. No wires exposed. The whole engine is visible like nakeds should be. I would buy one but like Harley’s, anything over 500 pounds, too heavy.
Wow. Zack just rocks! His experience exposes all negative aspects of this bike, and demonstrates the positive ones too. This is what all viewers need, just an impartial opinion of the bikes they're testing.
I don't understand why people are having a hard time with an exposed drive shaft when most MCs have an open chain drive? Seems like if anything it would be a tiny bit less likely to grab clothing and etc than a chain...
Agreed, that is incredibly dangerous. I’m sure there will be injuries and lawsuits over that. Someone will strap down luggage. The loose end of the strap will get caught on the driveshaft and cause them to crash. I hadn’t even considered the shoelaces though. However it does look cool! Modern tractor PTOs all have driveshaft covers as a matter of safety.
Try seeing the bike in person, and you'll quickly understand the driveshaft is no more unsafe then a chain. And if your passenger somehow got their foot near the driveshaft there's no sharp teeth to catch their boot.
Beautiful bike. No other add ons needed. Bang for the buck. No need for stage 4 expensive add ons which should be stock from factory. That driveshaft and motor is sick. Low center of gravity!
Sadly it’s every bit as powerful as my stock Harley Milwaukee 8 powered softail. But at least there is A stage IV available on the Harley that takes it up into the running with the Triumph Rocket 3 which will out corner either this or my Harley. If they’d given it at least the power of the BMW R1250 it’d be a different story and you could call it a power cruiser. The Lack if lean and uninspired power at a higher weight than my Softail nixed it for me.
I'm not a cruiser guy so this is pretty much exactly how I'd review any cruiser. Maybe Zack should have handed the R18 off to one of the cruiser fans at the RevZilla shop, then he could have done some flyby's on an S1000RR during the review. Observation on the review - we spent a lot of time looking at the bars... so my comment about aesthetics (which are maybe more important than things like cornering performance on cruisers) is that the switchgear do NOT match the bike at all, they should have given them the chrome treatment and that would have given the cockpit a bit more 'custom cruiser' look. "Adaptive headlight option that leans when you lean" - now that's just cruel, setting owners up for disappointment like that.
Sorry if you don't agree with my review. I feel I'm able to be objective even though I'm not a cruiser guy at heart. As for the adaptive headlight, maybe I didn't articulate the function well but the fact remains that it's an option on this bike and the technology is nifty.
@@zackcourts2280 Sorry I wasn't being critical! I don't disagree at all really (or maybe that I "agree too much" ;-) ... guess I was thinking "I'd not be a good guy to review a cruiser" and it seemed like maybe you struggled a bit too (which made perfect sense to me). IMO it's FAR more important that someone is honest with their opinions since so much of the what we see online is more 'influencer' than 'reviewer' these days. And the last comment about lean was tongue in cheek... was hoping that was obvious ;-) Well really the only part of the post that WASN'T tongue in cheek was the part about the switchgear.
Very honest review. better than the rushed ones ive seen and thanks for the "long trip" opinion. I also thought so. Cant imagine 11hrs on this bike, will be a deadly drag
I would like an explanation, however, as to why my R1200C "doesn't count" according to Zach? I guess because it doesn't drag pegs incessantly and isn't made just for looks?
Great review! My mate just took one of these beasts for a test ride today & he loves it. He was inspired by my recent purchase( & ride)of a Triumph Storm that i absolutely love. I turned 50 recently & the laid back style & speed of the cruiser is more suited to my (slightly) slower reflexes so i'm just enjoying the riding experience after 30 + years of go fast machines & i'm noticing more houses & scenery :) a lot of people stop to check out the Storm when i pull up at the pub & i'm sure this beemer will attract just as much attention. It's a beautiful ,elegant, classy machine! Cheers
Hey funny I got a 2012 T bird Storm too, got it when i turned 21 and that thing is a looker. Smokes most harleys out there too. Definitely keeping her with my Nightrod special
I really love this channel, but when it comes to the R18 I'm not fully convinced, especially about the claimed lack of "curvability". Look at how "Schaaf" (channel name) was beating the R18 around narrow mountain roads. Can't both be true, right?
Another great Revzilla review...great top quality gear and top talent...keep up the good work...on a side note, I don't think this bike is going to break down barriers in the cruiser market
I'm so glad that BMW made this bike. Looks amazing and I love the focus on the mechanical aesthetics, easily my favorite cruiser bike. Thanks for showing it off Zack!
They never set the preload on the rear suspension. (As most dealers haven't) I had to crank 7 turns of preload on mine to account for rider weight. This is something that should be on the dealers checklist.
@@exexpat11 I own a '97 Valkyrie. I have to get my lean on really hard to make the pegs scrape compared to what I'm seeing on this bike. I was looking for something to replace it once the time comes to do so and this BMW looks - looks like it fits the bill, but the clearance height seems a little low. I've ridden in all sorts of nasty weather. What will the U-joints on that exposed dog bone be like after a couple of thunderstorms?
@P. Taylor Our roads ain't all sweepers. It'd be nice if they were. But yeah. the ground clearance is too low. It shouldn't be dragging at that angle of attack.
I don't understand why Revzilla picks riders that don't like cruisers to test ride cruisers. He talks about performance all the time when clearly that is NOT the purpose of the bike. The R18 was built to compete with Harley and Indian, not with Ducati Diavels or the Rocket which are more performance oriented cruisers.
I agree. It seemed like he didn’t want to review this bike at all and had nothing positive to say about it. We get it, it’s not for you, but idc if the bike is for you or not. I just want what it’s like to ride.
I own one. It’s a fantastic motorcycle. He’s dragging the foot pegs because he doesn’t have the preload adjusted correctly. Even then, it’s a cruiser and not a sport bike. Ride it accordingly.
I test rode the R18B at Sturgis last year. I found it to be a very heavy MC. First gear was too high. I saw you feathering the clutch while modulating your throttle to achieve moderately smooth starts.The BMW "pilot rider" was also having the same difficulty with smooth starts. My wife was riding pillion and is small weighing just over 100 lbs. At speed, the B model rode nicely when speeds were above 20 mph. Below that, I was always reminded that this is a large, heavy MC. Suspension & seat on the B model were comfortable when above 20 mph.Below that, a little bumpy. Wind protection was good with the "bat wing" fairing. When I arrived back at the "dealer" on Main St., I put the side stand down and with about 2 inches to the ground, I couldn't hold it (I'm 6'2" and 200 lbs.) It landed with a thud on the side stand. I agree with you that this is certainly a confusing MC. The B model is very nicely styled, well put together & feels like a quality product, but it just didn't feel like a motorcycle I'd be inclined to purchase.
I’m amazed how inexpensive it is compared with Harleys. I basically overpaid for ancient technology and shite performance. I could’ve had this or an R Nine T, but I was just on my third cult of Harley purchase.
Sway-zee: - (adj) Swah-ay-zee. 1) The resulting description of riding a bike in the dirt that should not be ridden in the dirt 2) And Actor from the 1980s notable for his mullet hair style and way with the ladies.
When I saw the initial press releases from BMW my first thought was "Why?". I've seen their videos on it, seen the photos and the press releases, and now this and I'm still left with "I don't get it."
It's interesting keep saying 'no heritage / reaching for something that never was', is that an American thing? I see a lot of cues from the old beemers in the styling, stuff like the r5 from the 30s etc. Other than that agree with the rest though
Eda Bean I actually asked the guy who was riding it and he said the ground clearance is very good. He said he used to ride harleys and he would scrape all the time but on this bike he hasn’t
As a R/2 R/5 fanboy I would love to see the styling of this bike in an R80 size ..Nice and light under used mortor (Regular gas) 200 mile range 55 HP 55 touque ..Some modern version of the Earles fork and good brakes .. Less power than the Rnine T with older styling .Real suspention though with taller spring seat and single shock ... A modern R69s is what I would love to see .. That wasnt a short bike ..It had great suspention and was bullet proof .. WHen you look at the sales #s on the 900 Bonneville family it seems like a no brainer for BMW to truley find their heritage .. Though the R9T is a great family of bikes I think BMW is missing what made them great in the first place ..
Great video. I'm really interested from a design point in this bike. Hopefully I'll get to try one, I'm 6'7 and really interested to see would I fit. I'm still disappointed with where they landed on the stock exhausts, I think they dominate the side profile aesthetic and not in a good way! I still really like the concept and engine!
Bin genau 1,80 und sitze optimal auf meiner R 18 First Edition. Zuerst sind die Fischschwänze für das Auge gewöhnungsbedürftig, aber auf ihre geschwungene Linie würde ich mittlerweile auf keinen Fall mehr verzichten wollen! 😊
This guy just doesn't get it. BMW has no heritage? He's obviously completely unaware that BMW has been making the Boxer Twin since 1921 and putting them in their own branded motorcycles since 1923. The bike is wasted on him. He reveals his cluelessness when comparing the bike to a HD because he sees it as a "Cruiser" - when in reality, it's an homage to the 1930s when motorcycles were all built on an industry standard, not a marketing image. No pal, this bike is not made to perform or handle like a "Sports Bike" - which is a street version of a purpose built Racer, nor is it made to scramble around off road like a purpose built machine for that. No one considering buying an R18 is going to be interested in these dumb ass comparisons or the inane prattle indulged in here. Even Jesus from SRK does s better job in his review. At least he knows what a BMW is.
How about throwing another manufacturer in the mix like Benelli? Let's start with the TNT 135 for the daily rider. Leaderboard anyone who agrees with me please feel free to give this comment a like.
I would of said Claudia Schiffer, or Vanessa Hegelmaier :) Love the exposed driveshaft and a front end style. Wish they go back to building a 60s or 70s style boxer twin around 800cc with some of these features but with a sporty chassis.
Good looking, but so many compromises. Edit: I think the Moto Guzzi Eldorado would be a good comparison and is certainly less compromised than this Beemer.
Excellent job on the review. You are correct about the heritage. I built a BMW like this in the late 60s. R68 with the seat post removed and a high sissy bar. Twelve inches on the front end and this bike reminds me of that motorcycle. Same style frame, low seat and long front forks. For me it has heritage but I had only one of the two BMW choppers in the Los Angeles area. The foot pegs on the R68 could be adjusted so it would not drag as much in the corners. The frame is extremely similar to the R18. I rode this bike all over the state of California. Not much heritage for most riders.
I am not a cruiser type by any measure, but this bike speaks to me stangely hard. Love just about everything on it lol! Reminds me of those WW2 warcycles, looks great, sounds appropriate, and I actually like the lazy way the engine runs. Comparing it to Diavel is silly. Diavel is a power cruiser, or however you calling it. This one is like I am not in a rush because I am not going anywhere anyways type bike :D As a non BMW fan, if I had money, it'd be mine already :D
The bike is beautiful for sure. I think your comments about recalling a history that doesn't really exist are spot on. To me, that makes it basically just a styling exercise. Nothing wrong with that, if that what you're into. Thanks for another excellent and honest ride review!
@@deferencetodusk I'm yet to drive an R18 but I've ridden enough cruisers. I think it's worse people make it out to be. And you should also be crusin'. She's made for a sunday afternoon, not dailyin'.
I love the overall looks. The pipes and bars need to be changed. It feels like a Harley to me. I love it, but I feel a need to change it. I couldn't bring myself to buy one for the price. However, it would definitely draw my eyes on the street.
Have to admit: when I first saw the bike, I also thought the pipes were fugly. But…the more I look at the thing overall, the more I think the pipes fit. Mind you, were I daft enough to buy the thing, I'd likely go for a classic, upswept-megaphone thing. But, seriously, this is a love-it-or-hate-it machine, and I sort-of love it…but never, ever as a daily-rider. Which is what this YT channel's all about, right?
Great video Zack! It's always a pleasure seeing Ari in your videos lol. Love the chemistry between you two! If possible, please consider daily riding a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. Thanks!
A great review of the R18. Wondering wether the footrests can be altered? Big thank you from W Scotland! ( where it’d be a crime to keep one of these beautiful machines ) 👍😎
Check out Zack's article about the 2021 BMW R 18 on Common Tread: rvz.la/32JWiCe
Zh2 daily rider please !!!! :) cheers guys, keep up the excellent work.
When you mentioned BMW spending the R&D on the engine it all became clear. They haven't done that for one model so expect something similar to the R9T (R18T?) and maybe even something touring or GS like. There's a lot of headroom for power at 50hp/l.
*It's a cruiser. Don't be a badge snob. It ruins your journalistic objectivity.*
Looks like BMW are scraping the bottom of the barrel for ideas.
Imo
Best motorcycle review I've seen
Ari just casually rides a H2? What a man.
Man I remember meeting a guy who got a H2 as his first bike. Mad lad even took the license test in it lmao. His tires were balder than Squidward
worst-kept secret in SoCal: Ari's most likely to be seen dailying a Zuma 125
And you wouldn't
@MrZep420 that's the truth. You gotta admit it's more power though than some knuckleheads should have :)
ZH2 fam
The world is a better place with Zack and Ari in it. Props to Revzilla for giving you both a platform to put out new content -- especially one that we all can see!
Randomly seeing your homie when you're out on a ride is one of life's little joys. That is awesome.
This motorbike is not for me, but I guess someone will like it.
I like it :)
They should set up a few "surprises" with some old racers and retired riders. Sadly Peter Egan doesn't ride anymore.
@@mastercc4509 How sad Mr. Egan does not ride anymore. Does he still have his Norton 850?
.
So for those talking about him dragging the pegs, My guess is the preload wasn't set on the rear suspension. It comes set at ZERO and you need to adjust it to account for rider weight and accessories/bags. The suspension preload seems to be something that dealers are overlooking on the checkout and delivery.
Is this video a R18 test ride?
Or did the rider buy the BMW ?
@@missingremote4388 This was the test ride. It appears that the BMW dealers (Globally) are not following proper procedure on the new R18's and setting the rear suspension preload. When shipped, it comes set at ZERO so as to allow them to compress the suspension to allow it not to move in shipping. During the assembly and checkout ride, the dealer should have adjusted the rear shock preload for road use. Failure to do this will make the motorcycle bottom out, rough ride and drag the pegs. Both the dealer example and my personal R18 were delivered with the preset at ZERO. Once corrected the bike is a totally different animal. I hope this clarifies the issues as to why many of the press people are dragging pegs in the simplest of maneuvers.
Thanks + I wish I could buy one
@@ericweber1282 if you pop the clutch, it should wheelie right?
@@laryangel4082 I guess if you still possess the mentality of a 17 Year old going through puberty, and think that the performance of a bike is judged by whether it can pop a wheelie it would disappoint you. If I want to pop a wheelie, I'll do it on my K1600GTL.. I own an R18 because it is a retro-styled cruiser.
Frankly, I love my bmw r18. I bought this over fat boy primarily because the harley dealerships have become so greedy with markups... I was fed up... Went to bmw and bought this. Didn't think too much and 800 miles later I am glad I bought this. Have been riding this over my Harley FXDR... And I am hooked on R18... What a bike!
Go for this bike, you will not be disappointed especially in ROCK mode.
Love the turn around to check on the dog and concern for the dog , made me smile.
Time?
@@DJ-su9pf 21:53 Its right after he gets off the dirt road
I'm still getting used to Zack and Ari and Revzilla in the same sentence, but I'm still loving it!
It's like a dream come true
I miss your show on Motortrend with Ari
This is absolutely a "throwback" to a 100-year-old design. The 1937 BMW R5. The entire bike, not just the tank. Check it out. It's an amazing bike... and a design that evolved the medium and is still felt today.
Adjust the suspension preload before you ride the bike. Little to no peg scraping.
I just love these guys. Stoked Revzilla picked up their content. It doesn’t seem that they try to be the best Moto content guys, but I think that’s what makes them the best. Pure Moto enthusiasm. It’s refreshing and always appreciated. Cheers boys!
28:55 The R18 is designed to look like the BMW R5 cruiser from 1936. Open shaft drive and all.
I'm not sure if someone has already commented, but the R18 is based on the original 1936 BMW R5. So as for heritage, yes: it's there. I'm no BMW fanboy, but this might be the bike that gets me interested in a cruiser.
It’s a shame the rear shock wasn’t set up for you. My R18 rarely drags legs except on the very tightest of turns. The seat I definitely agree with, changed mine for a Mustang and it’s transformed it for me. So comfortable and you sit slightly higher so you also get more leg room.
I must be the only one in the world who absolutely loves every little detail on this bike.
Checked it out today and right away hit me in the “feels”. The retro look, quality...open dive shaft, WTF.....
I’m a “senior “ cruiser guy, so scraping a foot peg not the way I ride.
Ordered it. Will go nicely with my Softail .
Hein Mynhardt - which softail?
2007 FXSTC custom, stage 1, chromed out (lol, yup , l’m that guy).
Hein Mynhardt - nothing wrong with that
It's been 3 years now, what happened? Did/do you like it?
"Mamma jamma's a squatty potty." - Review by Zack Courts
Awesome pick! Really informative and cool comparisons. (Can't believe you actually went to the dirt part with it. That was insane!)
The heritage you say doesn't exist that you referenced is the airhead boxer heritage. This heritage absolutely does exist and is its own type of bike. Many of these old airheads are still on the road today. This design is an homage to the 1930s - 1990s classic airhead-- almost 100 year old design that is applied to a modern cruiser beast. I love the automatic balance that my old '70s airhead produces when I Rev up past 3k rpm. I'm glad that old BMW symmetry is not lost to time.
I love the reviews that Zack does: entertaining and informative. I am, however, able to separate facts from opinion. Keep in mind that every rider is different in riding style and preference. Zach is no exception. His preference is not for a bike like this as stated in a different video. I watch this review and read all of the comments. With the exception of Zach, there seems to be a lot of people weighing in on this bike without ever riding it. I went and rode one for myself. Great test ride with no scraping pegs. Keep in mind, I don't ride it like a sport bike.... This bike is not for everyone. I wasn't meant to be. Some people like the lower seat height for a variety of reasons. I would find any bike that has a 31"+ seat height as a negative. The looks of this bike are definitely different. You should take one for a ride and decide for yourself. Be careful , you may wind up buying one like I did. Thanks again Zach for the entertain review.
I have a BMW r1200r and really enjoy it...it's one of my favourite bikes of all time..I will not test ride an R18 because I know I will buy it!! hundred percent agree with your post.. take care enjoy your Bad to the Bone BMW bike! 👍
So I should go to a BMW dealership... got it
I’d be interested to see a bagger version. Way too much dragging on corners for me though.
Wish they would have just built a new R80 type of bike, proper retro for BMW.
An 800 or so cc full retro competitor to the w800 would have been cool, this has no appeal to me
They tried to compete with Harley and failed in every way, IDK why these are selling so well when Harley offers a motorcycle that is better in every way, for less.
I often go to work on a bmw test track and see the prototypes, and I can tell you there are a LOT of baggers, tourers, etc versions of this bike being developped. Wait a bit and you'll probably see a bagger r18
Sven Blubber Indeed, a real old school R80 with modern tech? I’m in!
Evirthewarrior I’d take this over any Harley, every day.
I road this bad boy today at Sandia BMW of Albuquerque in a full race suit with size 12 SIDI boots. She's not cramped and my feet weren't hitting the cylinders, about an inch off. I will say the kickstand is a pain to put up with the race boots, but that's it. Absolutely EVERYONE loves the look of this thing and you one it! Doesn't wheelie though...
"Devil's lettuce"!!! Cracked me up
Beelzebub's broccoli
The ultimate best cameo anyone could hope for in their video
Considering he’s not a cruiser guy he was pretty complementary. A few added details 2 years later. These ‘21 FEs were $13999 all day. My ‘21 FE Classic was $15988. Both had BMW incentives that took that down about $1900. Fairly, this model is no more a touring cruiser than an Ultra is a run around town grocery getter. Most buyers took these as a bit of a throwback, wanting something other than the stereotypical American cruiser. It’s not for everyone just like the H2 isn’t for everyone. If you’re a dyed in the wool HD guy you’re probably too entrenched in that style to be tempted. Maybe not. The Classic version (think Heritage) is much more rider comfort and distance friendly. The biggest knock will be the seat (pretty hard) and the often refilled 4.2 g tank. I’ve done 350 mile days with zero issues. A set of engine guards with footrests solve most of the issues over a long ride.
That engine is going to make lane splitting very interesting...
Handlebars seem maybe a little wider
More worried about the gigantic handlebar, would swap it with a more compact one if I was to ever buy this thing(I won't at that price)
@@joevidya and lose all your leverage on a 762lb bike?
Can't be worse than saddlebags
@@m0b00st Exactly! Wide bars are a good thing on this girthy pig.
I love the looks of this massive boxer. Its a masterpiece❤️❤️❤️
Videos and photos do not do this beauty justice. I happened upon it at the dealership today and I was stunned. It is simply gorgeous.
LOL! Randomly running into your best friend while out for a ride
Wasn't random he text him can you get my h2 in the video lol
Any gas gauge? Love that bike, clean, nostalgic, modern, with reverse, keyless, gear indicator. Convert that to bobber-cafe, with drag bars, kuryakyn mirrors and accessories. Fat grippy tires. All set. Just keep filling gas and oil changes, needs nothing else. For me, no bike is ready for my like but this one seems a little easy. Like when u did the dirt. And those scrapping pegs. Nice review and video.
"it only has 90 horsepower so its not a ton" meanwhile im over here with my 90's sportster 1200 making a monolithic 57 trying my best to knock the pegs off and fry my tires everywhere i go
90 bhp is a lot. People nowdays have their minds distorted.
@@the.communist 760lbs though!
@@the.communist I mean, shoot, 24 hp in my CRF250L Rally is enough to blast me to highway speed of 75+ mph (which I do regularly) - 57 to 90bhp is plenty for cruising and touring!
The Communist HP is overrated on the street.
Come on folks, come join the 27 (claimed) hp Royal Enfield gang!
I have zero desire to ride bikes like these but I can't stop watching these reviews! Plus, as an animal lover, Zac turning around to try and save the dog was way cool.Thanks!
The instant you initiated the turn at the railroad tracks I literally blurted out, “Oh my word Zach!” My heart dropped at the thought of the R18 in the dirt. 😂
Please Zack tell us more about your cam setup 'cause your audio is very good and I am really envious 😀
Love the minimalism. No wires exposed. The whole engine is visible like nakeds should be. I would buy one but like Harley’s, anything over 500 pounds, too heavy.
Wow. Zack just rocks! His experience exposes all negative aspects of this bike, and demonstrates the positive ones too. This is what all viewers need, just an impartial opinion of the bikes they're testing.
I'm surprised the open drive shaft passed all the regulations. I can only imagine the passengers laces getting caught in that hehe
Aren’t you the first guy to ever comment on an F9 video right?
I don't understand why people are having a hard time with an exposed drive shaft when most MCs have an open chain drive? Seems like if anything it would be a tiny bit less likely to grab clothing and etc than a chain...
No worse than a chain
Agreed, that is incredibly dangerous. I’m sure there will be injuries and lawsuits over that. Someone will strap down luggage. The loose end of the strap will get caught on the driveshaft and cause them to crash. I hadn’t even considered the shoelaces though. However it does look cool! Modern tractor PTOs all have driveshaft covers as a matter of safety.
Try seeing the bike in person, and you'll quickly understand the driveshaft is no more unsafe then a chain. And if your passenger somehow got their foot near the driveshaft there's no sharp teeth to catch their boot.
Beautiful bike. No other add ons needed. Bang for the buck. No need for stage 4 expensive add ons
which should be stock from factory. That driveshaft and motor is sick. Low center of gravity!
Sadly it’s every bit as powerful as my stock Harley Milwaukee 8 powered softail. But at least there is A stage IV available on the Harley that takes it up into the running with the Triumph Rocket 3 which will out corner either this or my Harley. If they’d given it at least the power of the BMW R1250 it’d be a different story and you could call it a power cruiser. The Lack if lean and uninspired power at a higher weight than my Softail nixed it for me.
The dashmahoozit is my favorite part of every motorcycle.
I love daily rider, perfectly fills the MC Commute shaped hole in my heart
"What am I, a motorcycle designer ?" ;) Sometimes, I think you should be one ;) Good review of this beast, Zack.
His bike would have the best mirrors
@@nighthawkcm8872 😄
That bike is one hell of a masterpiece.
Own the Classic, what a 💎
When I first saw it I was like "I want one" then when I saw how much it scraps the pegs I was like "maybe I don't want one"
Same!
I'm only a beginner, but I think this bike needs to be riden slowly to avoid peg srape.
Great test ride. Detailed and professional description. Zack is one of kind pro test rider. Truly enjoyed overall comments. Highly recommend.
I'm not a cruiser guy so this is pretty much exactly how I'd review any cruiser. Maybe Zack should have handed the R18 off to one of the cruiser fans at the RevZilla shop, then he could have done some flyby's on an S1000RR during the review.
Observation on the review - we spent a lot of time looking at the bars... so my comment about aesthetics (which are maybe more important than things like cornering performance on cruisers) is that the switchgear do NOT match the bike at all, they should have given them the chrome treatment and that would have given the cockpit a bit more 'custom cruiser' look.
"Adaptive headlight option that leans when you lean" - now that's just cruel, setting owners up for disappointment like that.
Sorry if you don't agree with my review. I feel I'm able to be objective even though I'm not a cruiser guy at heart. As for the adaptive headlight, maybe I didn't articulate the function well but the fact remains that it's an option on this bike and the technology is nifty.
@@zackcourts2280 Sorry I wasn't being critical! I don't disagree at all really (or maybe
that I "agree too much" ;-) ... guess I was thinking "I'd not be a good guy to review a cruiser" and it seemed like maybe you struggled a bit too (which made perfect sense to me). IMO it's FAR more important that someone is honest with their opinions since so much of the what we see online is more 'influencer' than 'reviewer' these days. And the last comment about lean was tongue in cheek... was hoping that was obvious ;-)
Well really the only part of the post that WASN'T tongue in cheek was the part about the switchgear.
Very honest review. better than the rushed ones ive seen and thanks for the "long trip" opinion. I also thought so. Cant imagine 11hrs on this bike, will be a deadly drag
"A beautiful, well engineered homage to a heritage that doesn't exist." Perfectly stated.
I don't know what he means by that -- BMW's ancient air-cooled twins looked super similar to this machine in the 60's and back.
Looks like BMW pulled this out of an alternate reality where BMW became a Harley-style cruiser company.
I would like an explanation, however, as to why my R1200C "doesn't count" according to Zach? I guess because it doesn't drag pegs incessantly and isn't made just for looks?
@Bunnyshooter 223 Nah the K100 had a totally different style and motor arrangement, it was an inline 4
No it's not because it's not true. BMW built bikes that look very similar for a long time.
Zack, your videos put a smile on my face. So glad you guys are back on TH-cam.
The exhausts are just huge. I am sure it is to keep under regulations, but they are like external drop tanks on an airplane.
Great review! My mate just took one of these beasts for a test ride today & he loves it. He was inspired by my recent purchase( & ride)of a Triumph Storm that i absolutely love. I turned 50 recently & the laid back style & speed of the cruiser is more suited to my (slightly) slower reflexes so i'm just enjoying the riding experience after 30 + years of go fast machines & i'm noticing more houses & scenery :) a lot of people stop to check out the Storm when i pull up at the pub & i'm sure this beemer will attract just as much attention. It's a beautiful ,elegant, classy machine! Cheers
Triumph truly makes the best Thai motorcycles
I absolutely love the looks. But man, the peg dragging is indeed *a drag*. They need to correct this some...Could be a deal breaker for me.
Hey funny I got a 2012 T bird Storm too, got it when i turned 21 and that thing is a looker. Smokes most harleys out there too. Definitely keeping her with my Nightrod special
Absolutly love that you do consider the possibilities. The Perfect Devil's Advocate which make review balanced. Thank You Zack. Love from India.
I really love this channel, but when it comes to the R18 I'm not fully convinced, especially about the claimed lack of "curvability". Look at how "Schaaf" (channel name) was beating the R18 around narrow mountain roads. Can't both be true, right?
Another great daily rider review 👍🏻 and how about that random, California celebrity sighting at 2:41😎
Another great Revzilla review...great top quality gear and top talent...keep up the good work...on a side note, I don't think this bike is going to break down barriers in the cruiser market
You are correct on your assumption. I thought the same thing as soon as I saw it. The dealers are selling them for thousands of dollars below MSRP.
I'm so glad that BMW made this bike. Looks amazing and I love the focus on the mechanical aesthetics, easily my favorite cruiser bike. Thanks for showing it off Zack!
I was considering this bike as the sixth position in my purchase list but thanks to your review, it is crossed out.
Thanks for the honest review
All these years later, what did you end up with?
@@PatrickJWenzel S1000RR
Masterpiece! My next bike!
bmw needs to release tha service manaul for this bike
The wobbly speedo and dragging foot pegs would annoy the hell out of me.
Dragging footpegs? Dragging JUGS!
They never set the preload on the rear suspension. (As most dealers haven't) I had to crank 7 turns of preload on mine to account for rider weight. This is something that should be on the dealers checklist.
Yeah...Deal breaker for me .
@@exexpat11 I own a '97 Valkyrie. I have to get my lean on really hard to make the pegs scrape compared to what I'm seeing on this bike. I was looking for something to replace it once the time comes to do so and this BMW looks - looks like it fits the bill, but the clearance height seems a little low. I've ridden in all sorts of nasty weather. What will the U-joints on that exposed dog bone be like after a couple of thunderstorms?
@P. Taylor Our roads ain't all sweepers. It'd be nice if they were. But yeah. the ground clearance is too low. It shouldn't be dragging at that angle of attack.
Thank you for doing this video
You better be enjoying the shit out of your dream job there, Zack.
Never ever-ever-EVER complain about it.
Cheers!
Zack Courts - nice, courteous, rescues dogs, is honest with his reviews. Not the hero we deserve, but the hero we need.
It literally looks like an airplane engine in the frame😂 really move looking bike tho!
BMW originated as a Aircraft engine manufacturer
Yes the logo is to represent a propeller in motion.
Love the bike! Not a fan of the Exhaust muffler.
I don't understand why Revzilla picks riders that don't like cruisers to test ride cruisers. He talks about performance all the time when clearly that is NOT the purpose of the bike. The R18 was built to compete with Harley and Indian, not with Ducati Diavels or the Rocket which are more performance oriented cruisers.
Can i add the Guzzi ones? (:
I agree. It seemed like he didn’t want to review this bike at all and had nothing positive to say about it. We get it, it’s not for you, but idc if the bike is for you or not. I just want what it’s like to ride.
@@_d-- Certainly!
@@drewwyatt8023 That was exactly my impression.
I own one. It’s a fantastic motorcycle. He’s dragging the foot pegs because he doesn’t have the preload adjusted correctly. Even then, it’s a cruiser and not a sport bike. Ride it accordingly.
I test rode the R18B at Sturgis last year. I found it to be a very heavy MC. First gear was too high. I saw you feathering the clutch while modulating your throttle to achieve moderately smooth starts.The BMW "pilot rider" was also having the same difficulty with smooth starts. My wife was riding pillion and is small weighing just over 100 lbs. At speed, the B model rode nicely when speeds were above 20 mph. Below that, I was always reminded that this is a large, heavy MC. Suspension & seat on the B model were comfortable when above 20 mph.Below that, a little bumpy. Wind protection was good with the "bat wing" fairing. When I arrived back at the "dealer" on Main St., I put the side stand down and with about 2 inches to the ground, I couldn't hold it (I'm 6'2" and 200 lbs.) It landed with a thud on the side stand. I agree with you that this is certainly a confusing MC. The B model is very nicely styled, well put together & feels like a quality product, but it just didn't feel like a motorcycle I'd be inclined to purchase.
I don't want one, I don't understand it, and I can't afford it but this was a great video
I’m amazed how inexpensive it is compared with Harleys. I basically overpaid for ancient technology and shite performance. I could’ve had this or an R Nine T, but I was just on my third cult of Harley purchase.
@@OnPointFirearms R Nine T is half the price of this though
Nice to see you guys back
Sway-zee: - (adj) Swah-ay-zee. 1) The resulting description of riding a bike in the dirt that should not be ridden in the dirt 2) And Actor from the 1980s notable for his mullet hair style and way with the ladies.
Zack's face on the thumbnail speaks volumes and matches my feelings towards this bike.
When I saw the initial press releases from BMW my first thought was "Why?". I've seen their videos on it, seen the photos and the press releases, and now this and I'm still left with "I don't get it."
Why not?
Clearly the best reviewer on TH-cam!!
It's interesting keep saying 'no heritage / reaching for something that never was', is that an American thing? I see a lot of cues from the old beemers in the styling, stuff like the r5 from the 30s etc. Other than that agree with the rest though
Precisely. Clearly has never seen an R5...
@@depress0coffee He grew up around old bmw motorcycles my guy. Check his instagram
To me it should be the coolest bike on the chart! But that's just one man's opinion, oh well...
I talked to a guy that was riding one from his dealership, he said it was designed/tributed to the old bike from the 30’s
Eda Bean I actually asked the guy who was riding it and he said the ground clearance is very good. He said he used to ride harleys and he would scrape all the time but on this bike he hasn’t
As a R/2 R/5 fanboy I would love to see the styling of this bike in an R80 size ..Nice and light under used mortor (Regular gas) 200 mile range 55 HP 55 touque ..Some modern version of the Earles fork and good brakes .. Less power than the Rnine T with older styling .Real suspention though with taller spring seat and single shock ... A modern R69s is what I would love to see .. That wasnt a short bike ..It had great suspention and was bullet proof .. WHen you look at the sales #s on the 900 Bonneville family it seems like a no brainer for BMW to truley find their heritage .. Though the R9T is a great family of bikes I think BMW is missing what made them great in the first place ..
Great video. I'm really interested from a design point in this bike. Hopefully I'll get to try one, I'm 6'7 and really interested to see would I fit. I'm still disappointed with where they landed on the stock exhausts, I think they dominate the side profile aesthetic and not in a good way! I still really like the concept and engine!
Bin genau 1,80 und sitze optimal auf meiner R 18 First Edition. Zuerst sind die Fischschwänze für das Auge gewöhnungsbedürftig, aber auf ihre geschwungene Linie würde ich mittlerweile auf keinen Fall mehr verzichten wollen! 😊
I will follow Zack and Ari no matter where they go or who they work for
This guy just doesn't get it. BMW has no heritage? He's obviously completely unaware that BMW has been making the Boxer Twin since 1921 and putting them in their own branded motorcycles since 1923. The bike is wasted on him. He reveals his cluelessness when comparing the bike to a HD because he sees it as a "Cruiser" - when in reality, it's an homage to the 1930s when motorcycles were all built on an industry standard, not a marketing image. No pal, this bike is not made to perform or handle like a "Sports Bike" - which is a street version of a purpose built Racer, nor is it made to scramble around off road like a purpose built machine for that. No one considering buying an R18 is going to be interested in these dumb ass comparisons or the inane prattle indulged in here. Even Jesus from SRK does s better job in his review. At least he knows what a BMW is.
The tank needs to be 1-1/2" wider to give it over 5 gallons.
Does it come with a power take-off? You know, to run balers and mowers and irrigation pumps?
How about throwing another manufacturer in the mix like Benelli? Let's start with the TNT 135 for the daily rider. Leaderboard anyone who agrees with me please feel free to give this comment a like.
I love the design of the engine, what a beauty !
I have to say, I know is not very good as a motorcycle but it's got so much character and charisma that I can't help to love it
That thing attains Angela Merkel levels of sexy.
Congrats, BMW!
Mutti 😱🤮
😂😂😂😂
Wtf
As a German, I have to agree.
I would of said Claudia Schiffer, or Vanessa Hegelmaier :)
Love the exposed driveshaft and a front end style.
Wish they go back to building a 60s or 70s style boxer twin around 800cc with some of these features but with a sporty chassis.
The R51/3 had an heavily chromed exposed driveshaft. Twin brother owned one. Great BMW with telescopic forks. So did other BMWs of that era.
That chrome R18 looks like it's straight out of Pep Boys.
Did you check the preload before riding the thing? Seems like the bike scrapes much sooner than one would expect or it should.
Zack said "it's not a throwback" but it is clearly a throwback to the old R32/35/37 early bikes.
OMG ZAC!!!!!!!!! great to see you back in the REAL WORLD!!!!
they should make foot rests above the engine and double them as heat sheilds/ reflectors.
They offer a leg rest for just that purpose
Good looking, but so many compromises.
Edit: I think the Moto Guzzi Eldorado would be a good comparison and is certainly less compromised than this Beemer.
I don't think they even make the Eldorado anymore tbh, the only bikes I see in their lineup is the V7 and the V85
Excellent job on the review. You are correct about the heritage. I built a BMW like this in the late 60s. R68 with the seat post removed and a high sissy bar. Twelve inches on the front end and this bike reminds me of that motorcycle. Same style frame, low seat and long front forks. For me it has heritage but I had only one of the two BMW choppers in the Los Angeles area. The foot pegs on the R68 could be adjusted so it would not drag as much in the corners. The frame is extremely similar to the R18. I rode this bike all over the state of California. Not much heritage for most riders.
I am not a cruiser type by any measure, but this bike speaks to me stangely hard. Love just about everything on it lol! Reminds me of those WW2 warcycles, looks great, sounds appropriate, and I actually like the lazy way the engine runs. Comparing it to Diavel is silly. Diavel is a power cruiser, or however you calling it. This one is like I am not in a rush because I am not going anywhere anyways type bike :D As a non BMW fan, if I had money, it'd be mine already :D
Same for me, I'm not a cruiser guy at all, but I absolutely love this one idk why
The bike is beautiful for sure. I think your comments about recalling a history that doesn't really exist are spot on. To me, that makes it basically just a styling exercise. Nothing wrong with that, if that what you're into. Thanks for another excellent and honest ride review!
This bike is based on the R12 and R17 models from the 1930's.
dragging foot pegs really killed it for me
:(
I haven't dragged pegs once, it's honestly a question to me how he does it so many times in this
@@deferencetodusk I'm yet to drive an R18 but I've ridden enough cruisers. I think it's worse people make it out to be. And you should also be crusin'. She's made for a sunday afternoon, not dailyin'.
@@deferencetodusk He doesn’t have the preload adjusted correctly.
Harley: We’re making a GS competitor for 2021.
BMW: oh ya? We’re making a road king competitor for 2021.
It just looks like they ripped that engine out of an WW2 double-dekker!
As usual, great job...best review of the R18 I’ve seen so far👍
God I hate the pipes!
The bike looks like shit
I love the overall looks. The pipes and bars need to be changed. It feels like a Harley to me. I love it, but I feel a need to change it. I couldn't bring myself to buy one for the price. However, it would definitely draw my eyes on the street.
Have to admit: when I first saw the bike, I also thought the pipes were fugly. But…the more I look at the thing overall, the more I think the pipes fit. Mind you, were I daft enough to buy the thing, I'd likely go for a classic, upswept-megaphone thing. But, seriously, this is a love-it-or-hate-it machine, and I sort-of love it…but never, ever as a daily-rider. Which is what this YT channel's all about, right?
Absolutely repulsive; worst looking pipes I've ever seen.
The engine is also hideous. When you look it from the front, it looks like the bike has square tumors
I liked the fact that Zack cared enough to turn around to check the dog on loose.
Great video Zack! It's always a pleasure seeing Ari in your videos lol. Love the chemistry between you two! If possible, please consider daily riding a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. Thanks!
A great review of the R18. Wondering wether the footrests can be altered? Big thank you from W Scotland! ( where it’d be a crime to keep one of these beautiful machines ) 👍😎
If you look up Wunderlich they have heaps of accessories, and yup there are footpegs and boards