2021 BMW R 18 First Edition Now On Sale In PH For P1.955M

The last time BMW released a cruiser motorcycle was 15 years ago, and today, they introduced to us a new cruiser bike that stands entirely in the history of BMW motorcycles: the BMW R 18. 

SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp (SMC ACDC), the official distributor of BMW automobiles and motorcycles in the Philipines, officially launches the BMW R 18 in First Edition trim. As they introduced to us the new R 18, BMW Motorrad marks its return to the cruiser segment.

The R 18 acquires some of its design and technology from well-known models such as the BMW R 5, shifting the focus back to the bike fundamentals: purist, straightforward innovation and the boxer engine as the focal point of riding pleasure. The R 18’s classic design has been combined with clear-cut yet contemporary technology, creating a riding experience that is cultivated as it is emotional.

The new BMW R 18 is air/oil-cooled and is powered by a two-cylinder, four-stroke boxer engine (also known as the “Big Boxer”) with two chain-driven camshafts. It has a 6-gear transmission and a single-disc dry clutch. It also comes with a dual twin disc-brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear that comes with four-piston fixed calipers. BMWs are known for their boxer engines, and the new R 18 has the most powerful and innovative production boxer engine to date. It has a total output of 91 hp and over 150 Nm of torque at a displacement of 1802 cc. If we’re talking about power, the R 18 definitely is one of the best.

One of the highlights of the R 18 is its suspension. It has a double-loop steel tube frame and a telescopic fork that has electronic adjustment options, ensuring the rider’s comfortability. The suspension itself is 120 mm at the front and 90 mm at the rear. Its swing arm is made in the same way as the BMW R 5, wherein the swing arm surrounds the rear axle transmission in authentic style by the use of bolted connections. 

As expected from BMW, they have continuously impressed people around the globe because of how much effort and attention to detail they give to their motorcycles, and the R 18 is living proof. Its bodywork comes with a beautiful pinstripe paint job and an open-running driveshaft guarantees that it will make people reminisce about the legendary boxers dating back to the ’90s.

The BMW R 18 comes with mid-mounted footpegs, giving the rider a more relaxed but active riding position at the same time. It also has a classic teardrop tank. And talking about attention to detail, its key has the same shape as its fuel tank. 

If you’re the type of person who loves customization, the R 18 is definitely for you. As Mr. Spencer Yu, the President of BMW Philippines said: “the R 18 is a motorcycle meant for customization.” BMW Motorrad offers many selections of parts depending on one’s personal taste and preferences. BMW Motorrad has collaborated with Roland Sands Design and several well-known suppliers in the world including U.S. supplier Mustang Seat that offers high-quality handmade seats. If you want to replace its fishtail exhaust pipe, exhaust options are available thanks to BMW Motorrad’s partnership with Vance & Hines for a more distinct and felt exhaust sound. 

Worry not about how you’re going to customize its body parts; it has an easily removable rear frame and an easy-to-dismantle painted part set. Its cylinder head covers and engine housing cover are also designed in a way where it can easily be changed. Its hydraulic lines for the brakes, clutch and cable harnesses are also carefully conceived to make the installation of different handlebars easier. All in all, the R 18 is a conversion-friendly motorcycle.

As some people would tell me, “It’s not all about looks! Think about your safety too!” Well, the new R 18 comes with three modes, “Rain”, “Rock” and “Roll” – unusual to this segment and made to adapt to the riders riding preference. The standard trim also comes with Part Integral ABS and Automatic Stability Control, which adjust the brakes according to riders’ weight, speed, and riding style, ensuring a high level of safety. It also comes with an engine drag torque control (MSR), a reverse assist making maneuvering more convenient, and the Hill Start Control function that facilitates uphill starts. Fully Adaptive LED lighting is also standard in the new BMW R 18, giving it optimum visibility when cornering. Safety? BMW has it for you.

All in all, BMW has never failed to show the world why they are one of the top motorcycle brands. From its looks, power, safety and comfort, they make sure that you get your money’s worth. The first-ever BMW R 18 First Edition is priced at P1,955,000 and comes with BMW’s 5-year/500,000-kilometer warranty, whichever comes first.