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!
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.
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'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.
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.
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 .
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.
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...
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! 👍
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.
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’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
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.
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 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?
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.
"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!
Good Review of a bike that no one really knows what to think of. I'm instantly reminded of the R1200C. Not by aesthetics, but in the nature of the beast. Glad you mentioned it's 90s cousin at the end there. The two seem remarkably similar. The 1200C wasn't really a throwback to anything, just like this R18 isn't. Bits and pieces are, but all together, no. A great looking, great riding bike, but a bit confusing when it first comes out. Now, 20 years later, everyone seems to get the 1200C much better. This R18 seems to be the 2020 version of the R1200C.
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. 😂
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.
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.
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."
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 ..
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.
The physics of a boxer twin: Accelerating in a right turn the bike wants to dive into the turn Accelerating to the left, the bike wants to stand I can imagine a lean off center into any turn would be a good practice to avoid the pegs on the ground
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.
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'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 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.
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
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
As an ex BMW R1100S owner I love it. But as a current Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400 owner I know my Guzzi is a better motorcycle more power more revs less weight(Audace is 300kg wet weight) I tried a HD Fat Bob 114 and my Guzzi accelerate better turns better and brakes better then the HD. I recon this is more of a Softail Slim od Deluxe competitor then the Low Rider S or a Fat Bob. I'm happy that BMW build it and I hope it will sell well!! Definitely better then the old R1200C!! It's a Lovly looking bike!! And if you Guys gonna do a group test make sure you take the Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400(it rides and have a ground clearance similar to a XjR1300) / Eldorado!just make sure that You put it in veloce mode(Italian for sport) wich is sport mode equivalent of BMW Roll mode! Rock mode = turismo on a Guzzi and rain = pioggia!
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?
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.
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've sat on one in the dealer and Zack was being nice about the ergos. I'm 6'0 and it's definitely cramped for such a large cruiser. Your knees are definitely higher than your hips. Also, RIP to anyone pays MSRP for these as my local BMW dealer has these regularly for around $12,900 on discount. Cool, beautiful bike but very niche due to ergos.
PG GP Maybe so, but underneath all the girly styling it is still an Sv650. I love my Zx14 and my 1199, but I probably put more mileage on my 2006 Sv650 than both of them combined. It’s just such a good bike
@@GMCBigBlock420 To be fair mate. My comment was a bit tounge in cheek. I actually quite like the bike but could never bring myself to buy one because of the stigma. But I am seriously considering a MK1 sv650 for winter bike. They really have stood the test of time.
PG GP Fair enough, In full honesty that same stigma kept me from the Gladius, and put me on a mk2 sv650n myself (in the lovely bright red). 😂 Hope I didn’t offend.
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 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!
R18 looks a bit like abstract art, best admired from a distance and never touched. The peg dragging at what seems like easy turns seems like a deal killer, over cook it ever so slightly and good bye to one of the jugs. They should have revived 1200C, but I guess will see soon enough weather this bike is a hit or failure. Let the market decide.
@@barrettwbenton right, they know this bike will only grow on people who really love motorcycles. Not for some rookie constantly thinking racing a Ferrari in a cbr.
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 heat put out by the engine is not related to its peak HP, but rather to how much HP is being produced at the moment. If you take the same bike and place a 50 HP engine in it and a 100 HP engine in it of the same design, and you are riding at 60 MPH which requires say 15 HP, then both engines are rejecting about the same amount of heat as both are producing 15 HP. You can’t use peak HP as an indicator of how much heat the engine will put out in a given situation.
@@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'.
As a fan and an owner of 3 BMWs (R9T scrambler, GS1250 and a C400X scooter) I’d keep my Harley Breakout or most other Softails (slim especially) over this Seating position is a no no. And the cylinder head width is already polarizing on my R9T here it’s just gnarly
I'm torn, love the art, hate the dragging pegs. I've never owned or desired a heritage style bike but this would be the bike if I went crazy and bought one. The lack of ability to carve corners keeps me away from this style
Not only he slide (on purpose) a motorcycle on the rail track (or we all do remember the GoldWing...) plus he even turns around to go and help a dog! Zack is the MAN!
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.
Hey Zack, don't undermine yourself, you are exactly what Motor Cycle engineers need to LISTEN TO!!!!... It's Trench Warfare and you're in It!! Expert Advice
So it outclasses the harley in every metric and even has a lower suggested retail price but they havent been making them as long as harley so its not as good. Got it.
@Tommy Salami I really like those ducati's they're pretty sweet. I dont ride but I love anything with wheels and an ICE. I'm not as much of a fan of the "bagger stlye" but its true everyone has their own taste.
Go to a showroom and check it out, bike looks way better up close in person. Even the fishtail exhaust looks the part in person, seen from head height.
What a fine review. At 24:00 the insight into the invented supposed (imagined design) heritage of the R18 is lethal. So in the final assessment, never mind the quibbles (no fuel gauge, etc.) the whole of the R18 is just not actually greater than the sum of the excellent parts? What I don't get is the harsh suspension on an (ultimately) tame trophy bike? The not quite excellent front brakes? The oversized engine (which could be a fearsome beast) but detuned to early 90's power/litre. If you're going nuts on a brave design why not unleash a bravura Valkrie Norse-horse, a Cruiser that breathes fire to Götterdämmerung? Instead what we got was a dentist from Malibu's weekend pose bike... scrapping the undercarriage as you're just keeping up with suburban Camry's, oh dear. Where's the effortless Teutonic superiority? The R18 is more a WW1 Zeppelin-Staaken R.VI Gotha bomber, than a terrifying Heinkel. Besides, there are excellent retro alternatives, that better integrate the heritage with rideability, have a look at: Nmoto’s New Kit Will Convert Your BMW R NineT Into a Retro-Inspired R7 - robbreport.com/motors/motorcycles/exclusive-nmoto-r-seven-t-bolt-on-kit-1234569355/
That's one ugly exhaust. Edit: The old Rocket 3 was acceptable on dirt. Since it has decent ground clearance. Honestly I am surprised how meh the R18 behaves and sounds.
I test rode one of them, it had mid controls, my legs were too bent for comfort, plus its sear height was lower than my mopeds, it was still a fun torquey beast, one of the best looking cruisers I've ever seen, if it were possible I'd get forward controls, but thanks to the boxer twin motor, that probably isn't the case. Shes certainly a looker I'll give her that, but she's too low and uncomfortable
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!
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.
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?
.
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.
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'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
28:55 The R18 is designed to look like the BMW R5 cruiser from 1936. Open shaft drive and all.
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
"Mamma jamma's a squatty potty." - Review by Zack Courts
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 .
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?
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.
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...
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
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.
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!
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’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 love the looks of this massive boxer. Its a masterpiece❤️❤️❤️
"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 😄
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.
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.
"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.
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.
"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!
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
Good Review of a bike that no one really knows what to think of. I'm instantly reminded of the R1200C. Not by aesthetics, but in the nature of the beast. Glad you mentioned it's 90s cousin at the end there. The two seem remarkably similar. The 1200C wasn't really a throwback to anything, just like this R18 isn't. Bits and pieces are, but all together, no. A great looking, great riding bike, but a bit confusing when it first comes out. Now, 20 years later, everyone seems to get the 1200C much better. This R18 seems to be the 2020 version of the R1200C.
"Devil's lettuce"!!! Cracked me up
Beelzebub's broccoli
The exhausts are just huge. I am sure it is to keep under regulations, but they are like external drop tanks on an airplane.
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. 😂
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.
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.
Harley: We’re making a GS competitor for 2021.
BMW: oh ya? We’re making a road king competitor for 2021.
The dashmahoozit is my favorite part of every motorcycle.
That bike is one hell of a masterpiece.
Own the Classic, what a 💎
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.
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.
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.
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?
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 ..
The ultimate best cameo anyone could hope for in their video
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.
You better be enjoying the shit out of your dream job there, Zack.
Never ever-ever-EVER complain about it.
Cheers!
The physics of a boxer twin:
Accelerating in a right turn the bike wants to dive into the turn
Accelerating to the left, the bike wants to stand
I can imagine a lean off center into any turn would be a good practice to avoid the pegs on the ground
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.
I love daily rider, perfectly fills the MC Commute shaped hole in my heart
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.
Adjust the suspension preload before you ride the bike. Little to no peg scraping.
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 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
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.
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
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
Another great daily rider review 👍🏻 and how about that random, California celebrity sighting at 2:41😎
As an ex BMW R1100S owner I love it. But as a current Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400 owner I know my Guzzi is a better motorcycle more power more revs less weight(Audace is 300kg wet weight) I tried a HD Fat Bob 114 and my Guzzi accelerate better turns better and brakes better then the HD. I recon this is more of a Softail Slim od Deluxe competitor then the Low Rider S or a Fat Bob. I'm happy that BMW build it and I hope it will sell well!! Definitely better then the old R1200C!! It's a Lovly looking bike!! And if you Guys gonna do a group test make sure you take the Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400(it rides and have a ground clearance similar to a XjR1300) / Eldorado!just make sure that You put it in veloce mode(Italian for sport) wich is sport mode equivalent of BMW Roll mode! Rock mode = turismo on a Guzzi and rain = pioggia!
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 think BMW should put this engine in a reimagined R60/2. An elegant upright gentleman's tourer/cruiser.
The engine sounds identical as it is.
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
This bike makes absolutely sense and that's why I love it. It is a beautiful conundrum. BMW bringing the thunder. Such a great bike. Way to go, BMW.
Absolutly love that you do consider the possibilities. The Perfect Devil's Advocate which make review balanced. Thank You Zack. Love from India.
Zack Courts - nice, courteous, rescues dogs, is honest with his reviews. Not the hero we deserve, but the hero we need.
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've sat on one in the dealer and Zack was being nice about the ergos. I'm 6'0 and it's definitely cramped for such a large cruiser. Your knees are definitely higher than your hips. Also, RIP to anyone pays MSRP for these as my local BMW dealer has these regularly for around $12,900 on discount. Cool, beautiful bike but very niche due to ergos.
That chrome R18 looks like it's straight out of Pep Boys.
BMW has a very rich history with these kind of bikes, starting with the R32 in the early 1900, I think it will amaze you.
Gosh, I guess the Gladius really wasn't so ugly after all.
My first bike was a Gladius. Ugly as hell but I loved every minute on it
@@SuzukiC41 Girls bike 👍
PG GP Maybe so, but underneath all the girly styling it is still an Sv650. I love my Zx14 and my 1199, but I probably put more mileage on my 2006 Sv650 than both of them combined. It’s just such a good bike
@@GMCBigBlock420 To be fair mate. My comment was a bit tounge in cheek. I actually quite like the bike but could never bring myself to buy one because of the stigma. But I am seriously considering a MK1 sv650 for winter bike. They really have stood the test of time.
PG GP Fair enough, In full honesty that same stigma kept me from the Gladius, and put me on a mk2 sv650n myself (in the lovely bright red). 😂 Hope I didn’t offend.
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
Zack said "it's not a throwback" but it is clearly a throwback to the old R32/35/37 early bikes.
Not sure why? But I love it! Great job BMW.
I love the design of the engine, what a beauty !
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
Does it come with a power take-off? You know, to run balers and mowers and irrigation pumps?
I must be the only one in the world who absolutely loves every little detail on this bike.
It just looks like they ripped that engine out of an WW2 double-dekker!
Great test ride. Detailed and professional description. Zack is one of kind pro test rider. Truly enjoyed overall comments. Highly recommend.
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 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!
R18 looks a bit like abstract art, best admired from a distance and never touched. The peg dragging at what seems like easy turns seems like a deal killer, over cook it ever so slightly and good bye to one of the jugs. They should have revived 1200C, but I guess will see soon enough weather this bike is a hit or failure. Let the market decide.
I don't think they're betting on selling containerloads of the things; it's truly a halo-bike.
@@barrettwbenton right, they know this bike will only grow on people who really love motorcycles. Not for some rookie constantly thinking racing a Ferrari in a cbr.
BMW's R18: 1800 C.C.!!! Triumph's Rocket 3: Sorry to hear that!
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 heat put out by the engine is not related to its peak HP, but rather to how much HP is being produced at the moment. If you take the same bike and place a 50 HP engine in it and a 100 HP engine in it of the same design, and you are riding at 60 MPH which requires say 15 HP, then both engines are rejecting about the same amount of heat as both are producing 15 HP. You can’t use peak HP as an indicator of how much heat the engine will put out in a given situation.
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.
As a fan and an owner of 3 BMWs (R9T scrambler, GS1250 and a C400X scooter) I’d keep my Harley Breakout or most other Softails (slim especially) over this Seating position is a no no. And the cylinder head width is already polarizing on my R9T here it’s just gnarly
I'm torn, love the art, hate the dragging pegs. I've never owned or desired a heritage style bike but this would be the bike if I went crazy and bought one.
The lack of ability to carve corners keeps me away from this style
as others have said, the preload were probably set at zero and probably not correct for his bodyweight
I will follow Zack and Ari no matter where they go or who they work for
Masterpiece! My next bike!
Not only he slide (on purpose) a motorcycle on the rail track (or we all do remember the GoldWing...) plus he even turns around to go and help a dog! Zack is the MAN!
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.
Hey Zack, don't undermine yourself, you are exactly what Motor Cycle engineers need to LISTEN TO!!!!...
It's Trench Warfare and you're in It!! Expert Advice
This particular bike seems like it was designed completely for its looks alone.
So it outclasses the harley in every metric and even has a lower suggested retail price but they havent been making them as long as harley so its not as good. Got it.
Sounds like it's a terrible motorcycle for the amount of money. So many other options out there in every category this motorcycle may fit in.
And the "clout" of owning a beamer
It's actually at the same price point as similarly under equipped Harley and Indian models
I think that thing is beautiful
@Tommy Salami I really like those ducati's they're pretty sweet. I dont ride but I love anything with wheels and an ICE. I'm not as much of a fan of the "bagger stlye" but its true everyone has their own taste.
Go to a showroom and check it out, bike looks way better up close in person. Even the fishtail exhaust looks the part in person, seen from head height.
What a fine review. At 24:00 the insight into the invented supposed (imagined design) heritage of the R18 is lethal. So in the final assessment, never mind the quibbles (no fuel gauge, etc.) the whole of the R18 is just not actually greater than the sum of the excellent parts? What I don't get is the harsh suspension on an (ultimately) tame trophy bike? The not quite excellent front brakes? The oversized engine (which could be a fearsome beast) but detuned to early 90's power/litre. If you're going nuts on a brave design why not unleash a bravura Valkrie Norse-horse, a Cruiser that breathes fire to Götterdämmerung?
Instead what we got was a dentist from Malibu's weekend pose bike... scrapping the undercarriage as you're just keeping up with suburban Camry's, oh dear. Where's the effortless Teutonic superiority? The R18 is more a WW1 Zeppelin-Staaken R.VI Gotha bomber, than a terrifying Heinkel. Besides, there are excellent retro alternatives, that better integrate the heritage with rideability, have a look at:
Nmoto’s New Kit Will Convert Your BMW R NineT Into a Retro-Inspired R7 -
robbreport.com/motors/motorcycles/exclusive-nmoto-r-seven-t-bolt-on-kit-1234569355/
That's one ugly exhaust.
Edit: The old Rocket 3 was acceptable on dirt. Since it has decent ground clearance.
Honestly I am surprised how meh the R18 behaves and sounds.
The fat tyre on the rocket allowed it to be ridden on the beach sometimes
I test rode one of them, it had mid controls, my legs were too bent for comfort, plus its sear height was lower than my mopeds, it was still a fun torquey beast, one of the best looking cruisers I've ever seen, if it were possible I'd get forward controls, but thanks to the boxer twin motor, that probably isn't the case.
Shes certainly a looker I'll give her that, but she's too low and uncomfortable
I sat on one before, and there is no room for your feet if you are tall.