An owners thoughts on the BMW R18 First Edition

[@jeffreybogue-collis7808]

Collected my R18 Classic last week, after being a lifelong Harley Rider, this bike knocks spots off of every one I've owned, love it !

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for sharing

[@BoiledOctopus]

How are you finding it? Taking one out for a test ride this week.

[@BikerTorque]

@@BoiledOctopusstill love mine after 2 years of ownership. Also just had a mate pick up a Highline,after being a Victory Octane rider for many years, he can’t believe how much it makes him smile when riding it.

[@BoiledOctopus]

@@BikerTorque Literally every video I have watched, people are laughing and smiling whilst riding this bike. Off out tomorrow on one with a potential purchase next week if all goes well. The look of this machine is just outstanding..

[@jeffreybogue-collis7808]

@@BoiledOctopus Absolutely love it, so comfortable and handles lovely.

[@simeonivanov3507]

It's the most beautifull bike made in last 20-25 years. THERE IS ANY DOUBT ABOUT THAT .

[@BikerTorque]

Absolutely no doubt in my mind. You are 100% correct, although I may be biased. Thanks for watching

[@oracensor5607]

I agree along with the moto guzzi griso and the Laverda jota and the first moto guzzi V7 1967 the R18 is the masterpiece

[@swcrossii]

Absolutely! Perfectly unique. Extraordinary.

[@limbandtreeremoval]

@@simeonivanov3507 Tru Such a beautiful bike/ Classic So much Love

[@shaktityagi5971]

They nailed it. It's a beauty. I am proud of BMW'S achievement. Have had It customised to a bobber. 1st edition, all opps. I would never have a cruise control on a big bike. Have had it for over 2 years.

[@BikerTorque]

They have absolutely nailed it

[@limbandtreeremoval]

​@@BikerTorqueyes, Thank you for sharing

[@wave6413]

Great review. I’ve had my R18c for a year. It’s a force of nature and an amazing machine. It brings fun to the ride and looking down while riding and looking at the jugs is incredible. It was worth the gamble to purchase sight unseen and having never ridden any make of full size cruiser.

[@BikerTorque]

Couldn't agree more!

[@castrojosua]

I've had mine for 2 months now, mind you that my previous bike was a Weestrom and I use my bikes to commute everyday in the northeastern part of the United States. With that being said, it's the perfect commuter bike. It's boring to ride, relaxed, predictable and smooth. Which in my opinion it's what makes this bike so much better than its competitors, although balanced its a little hard to get use to it but once you get it and aren't afraid of it, it takes corners nicely...sure it's no Penigale or GS650 but it's great for it's shape. I love the bike and I hope to see them more here in the states.

[@BikerTorque]

Yes agree it corners surprisingly well. Commuting on it here in Sydney is OK, but it is a bit to big for some of the tighter inner city roads, but I didn’t buy it as a commuter so don’t really take it into the office very often.

[@michaelkhoury3132]

Great review. I’ve had my R18 Classic Highline for 2 months and absolutely love my bike. Thanks for the tip Ross. It’s an adventure every time we do our pie run.

[@BikerTorque]

Love the colour of your Highline.

[@ThrottleDownunder]

Glad you are loving it Ross. Hopefully this encourages more sales for BMW

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks Rob, yes hopefully, I really do believe the sales results were affected by the timing of the release.

[@reneroozendaal5493]

It is an absolutely beautiful bike! Well done BMW! Enjoy ! Greetings from the Netherlands

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for watching Rene.

[@billgunther]

I keep an r18 in my garage, a 2021 classic FE, and I also maintain a 1999 R1200C.... Two very different and distinct rides, depending on my mood, both get driven equally.... This is a great review. Kudos to you.

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for your kind words, glad you enjoyed the review. Don’t see many R1200C’s on the road. Thanks for watching

[@KrakensGarageandAdventures]

I have to say Ross, I love your channel. You are so polished and just a joy to watch. I have so much to learn on my channel to be as polished as your content is. I too purchased a R18 First Edition and feel the same about it. It is so refined and pulls like a freight train. Keep up the great work mate. Eric

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks Eric. Funny I was just catching up on Big Stefs podcast yesterday and got up to the ep you did with him. Very interesting, I must have missed your R18 videos, so went onto your channel to catch up. Great video about the cost of servicing for the R18. I had the same experience, was very pleasantly surprised at the cost of the initial service.

[@KrakensGarageandAdventures]

@@BikerTorque Maye, it's impossible to keep up with everyone, so I pop in every now and then. I strive to get to your level of production.

[@deanletter335]

I bought a couple of month’s ago. It is a great ride and I haven’t been on a bike with a better finish. Compared to other bikes in its class, I think it is one of the best values out there.

[@BikerTorque]

Agree, finish is excellent and they are pretty good value now, not so much if you bought one a few years ago

[@upnorthrider]

I’m definitely a fan of these bikes, I love the boxer engine 😎

[@BikerTorque]

I’m with you there, love a boxer. We have another BMW review next week, this time on the R18 Transcontinental

[@RoadsOfOz]

The R18 is a great looking bike. Glad you are happy with yours.

[@BikerTorque]

Yes absolutely love it Matt

[@JimmyMacTavish]

Love your channel Ross! The production quality, content and format are always spot on. 👍🏻

[@BikerTorque]

Hey Cameron, thanks for your kind comments. Tegan and I are having a heap of fun producing these videos. Just wish we had more time for them as there is just so much potential content out there.

[@eprohoda]

good night!buddy.thank you! you made awesome ,👏

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it.

[@BDHO73]

I’ve gotta say I love the look of that exhaust.

[@BikerTorque]

Sometimes I love it and other times I don’t, but having said that it does look so much better in real life

[@Coylee91]

That closing shot of resting your feet on the cylinders reminds me of something I read from Neil Peart of Rush in one of his books about touring on his GS, he liked to keep his feet warm using a similar method on cold days before be bought his first heated socks, he suggested that's what makes the boxer engine superior more than any other reason.

[@BikerTorque]

Lol, there’s many reason’s why Boxers are superior, but must agree with Neil, keeping your feet warm is at the top of the list. Thanks for watching

[@franktreadwell3442]

I love the look of the stock fishtail exhaust

[@BikerTorque]

I think they look better in real life than they do in photos

[@possisvideos]

But they block the use of the stock panniers…stupid decision 😂

[@MrMandelsohn]

I’ve had my First Edition since 2020, still loving it. I made some changes: put on Jekyl and Hyde exhausts, wunderlich oil cooler cover like yours, got front mudguard pin striped to match rear, installed the BT Moto tuner remap - good video!

[@BikerTorque]

I forgot to mention that there’s no pin striping on the front guard, that is also something I’m planning on getting done, looks a bit plain without it.

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for watching, how is the J&H exhaust?

[@MrMandelsohn]

@@BikerTorque I like it a lot as you can push a button to go loud or neighbourly. Loud mode is a whole new bike especially on open throttle. The exhausts are very high manufacturing quality too. Expensive though.

[@stephenjames6075]

As you say, Ross, it’s a piece of mobile art! The other good thing about mid-pegs is the ability to bear weight through your legs to mitigate the impact of visible bumps ahead! Thanks for the video!

[@BikerTorque]

Yes, I forgot to mention that bonus of mid pegs, so true. Thanks for watching Stephen.

[@jimmymcjimjim5610]

I decided to get one a few days ago. Very excited! I have a massive wait tho as i never bothered getting my full license when i was young. A long 9 months ahead.

[@BikerTorque]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@onthesoulside]

Mate I'm still in love with it. Thanks for bringing it by. For me it's not if I will buy one but when. I just need a left over 20k and I'm in. Great review as always. Thanks again

[@BikerTorque]

Hey Dave, I swung past the Soulside this morning on my way back from Bathurst on the off chance you’d be open early on a public holiday morning. Saw you were closed and had to settle for 2nd rate coffee,lol. Yes love my R18, as I said it’s a rolling work of art.

[@onthesoulside]

@@BikerTorque Ross it would have been great to catch up again. Sorry I missed you mate. If I'd known I would have come and had breaky with you. Next time mate

[@watashiwa6634]

A good and honest review. I am German and own the R18 FE since January. I still enjoy every moment on it. Even the fishtails are growing on me. Didn‘t like them from the beginning. FYI, the pin stripes are definitely not hand painted. It’s a wrong information from the dealers. Anyway, they look nice. Ride safe, mate.

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for watching and for taking time to comment. I’m with you on the fishtails, they are growing on me, but still think I’d fit some like the concept bike if they become available

[@frankdamelio1664]

Great post !!!!!!Love mine!!! Added it to the stable. R1250gsa, K1600 bagger and now this. Had it customized. So much fun. The bike has soul. You don’t see yourself coming and going. I get compliments all the time from admirers…. Mine is stripped. If it’s your only bike , I’d suggest something else , especially if you tour. Not a fan of the touring version of this bike. Suggestion. Demo demo demo before putting your hard earned cash down. Good luck & enjoy !!! 😊😊

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video. Sounds like you’ve got a great collection of BMWs. I’m hoping to get a few of the new R1250 range this year for review as well as some of the K series and who knows what else.

[@SmilingInstantCamera-ix9bx]

I’ve owned an R18 for 2 years now. The 2021 First Edition. Just kept it naked and…the more I ride it the more I fall in love with it! It’s funny to me here in the states but, with the lack of initial attention with the Covid release for obvious reasons, they just aren’t selling and you can almost steal them from dealers here right now. Personally I love the bare bones first edition with the retro styling versus the newer bagger versions etc. The retro styling that harkens back to the 1936 R5 tend to get lost in those versions to me. The first edition belongs in a museum it’s so gorgeous from a styling standpoint. To be fair, I think you have to like that retro look but even from an objective viewpoint it’s a classy bike striped down naked as the first edition came. Beautifully engineered, reliable, drives and handles awesome with its German engineering, fantastic for weekend warrior cruising up and down the ocean coastline here in Florida, also drives great at lower speeds around town yet has all the torque or speed you could ever want in a cruiser configuration when you want to dig in like that as well. They are going so cheap now from the dealers here in the states that I have thought of buying a second bike and just storing it as an investment! I believe in a few years these will be a MUCH sought after instant classic. It could be ahead of its time. Certainly overlooked. That is until I drive around town. EVERY time I go out and stop somewhere someone walks up and loves it and strikes up a conversation. 100% of the time! People are missing out! And I own a multi award winning Harley bagger show bike as well with 4 times the amount of money dumped into that money pit and I have come to MUCH prefer riding my R18! Anyhow, from one totally happy owner to another? Cheers mate! Enjoy! 🍻👍👍😎

[@BikerTorque]

Great to hear from a Harley rider who also owns an R18. Totally agree, that the FIrst Edition will be a bit of a collectors item in the future. I’ve had mine about 2 1/2 years now and have made any mods, except to remove the pillion seat. The seat is also starting to soften up and become more comfortable on longer rides, so not sure I’ll even swap that out.

[@SmilingInstantCamera-ix9bx]

@@BikerTorque My seat is starting to soften too, funny you should mention that. I have the same thoughts. Gonna keep her on there a while longer myself. Great talking to you and…it IS a frickin’ awesome bike!! Going out early tomorrow morning up the coast 👍👍😎 Enjoy and, you ever wanna talk R18? I’m right here. 🙂

[@BikerTorque]

@@SmilingInstantCamera-ix9bx Enjoy your ride, mines going in for its 10,000km service on Friday. The dealer is given me a R18 with a full bobber kit installed, for a few days, shall do a video on that while I have it

[@SmilingInstantCamera-ix9bx]

@@BikerTorque I’ll look forward to seeing that 👍👍😎

[@LesterSuarezGonzalez-dz9ns]

Absolutely Superb Machine!!!, No doubt at all My favorite Cruiser 👊👍✌️🥇!!!, Thanks for sharing 👍👊✌️!!!

[@BikerTorque]

Mine too!

[@edwardlong2478]

Great vid Ross. I’m really enjoying my 22 R18. Getting close to first 600 maintenance. I li e the fishtails but considering the Pro Race shorty for more sound and engine guards The bike is so balanced especially cornering, low c.g. Highlight: The Boxer Engine is simply amazing

[@BikerTorque]

Agree it’s an incredible power plant. Thanks for watching, glad you like the video and great to hear from another very happy R18 owner

[@dimadee]

I picked my R18 HL up a couple of weeks ago as a demo for a bargain price. I totally agree with you - every time I ride it I like it more. Lane filtering at the traffic lights isn't really an issue. The torque is effortless and the handling is great. HEated grips and cruise control top it off! My biggest gripe is the exhaust - I wish it made just a little bit more noise. The sound is great but the volume is too low for such a special bike. The aftermarket pipes are too loud and unrefined in my opinion. I will probably have a go at making my own mufflers to get what I want. I also replaced the crappy horn with the low pitch horn from an E39 (it is plug and play!) - it now sounds more like a car and not a Japanese 250 ;-)

[@BikerTorque]

Yes, it would be nice if those pipes were a touch louder

[@Felipe_Motociclista]

Best pie shop.. I'd say the Grumpy Baker at Bilpin ! Love that shop !

[@BikerTorque]

I know it well, not bad, not bad at all

[@andrewd7586]

Best review bar none Ross! And no, not just because I’ve owned my First Edition just gone 2 years.🤭 Your assessments on the good AND not so good is 100% accurate. My brother in law, is a life long Harley man, in his mid 60’s & he was gobsmacked when he threw his leg over. Not that I cared.🥱 This is my first cruiser & my last cruiser! Never to be sold! After a myriad of BM’s, including the S1000RR, then the S1000R, this is for me the pick. 👍🏼😎 Yes the only thing I was miffed by was lack of cruise as my previous 2 had it. I’m looking at the Atlas aftermarket option. Oh & how good is the Beeline nav?👍🏼

[@BikerTorque]

Hey @andrewd7586 thanks for your kind comments and glad you liked the review. Love my First Edition, sadly don’t get to ride it nearly enough, with my other bikes and the press bikes. Just ticked over 5000kms and loving it more and more. Very interested to see if the rumoured 1250 / 1300cc cruiser, the R12 becomes a reality. Thanks for watching, plenty more stories and reviews coming up when we kick the channel off again in Feb 2023.

[@andrewd7586]

@@BikerTorque I’m a bit like yourself Ross. A few toys in the shed, but the R18 has become my go to bike! Yes heard the rumours of the R12. Makes sense. I believe anyone who was or has been hesitant due the R18’s heft will definitely put the “lesser” one on their radar!👍🏻

[@kellyco4139]

A beautiful and magnificent piece of machinery 😎

[@BikerTorque]

Yes, it’s absolutely stunning

[@kellyco4139]

Great honest and accurate review too 👍 they are an amazing bike to ride and so much fun 🥳

[@BikerTorque]

Yes love my R18

[@TheKnightstar13]

Got one, like yours, love it to death, also got a K1600gtl Exc, love that too!

[@BikerTorque]

Nice one. I’ve manage to get on it a bit more lately, which has been great. although just did a tour around Tasmania on a BMW R1250RT which was wonderful. Keen to ride the K series

[@TheKnightstar13]

@BikerTorque the K bikes are mental! They are just so fast, and the handling is almost sport bike. But believe me, the odd Lambo has a bit of trouble keeping up from the light's, you gotta try one out. These two bike are so far apart in character you won't belive it.

[@mart7404]

"Survey Says" They nailed it. I had a Moto Guzzi Audace which I loved but was so big and unweildly that I sold it. This one makes up for it with the reverse and all of the fine details. It is gorgeous and now I am convincing myself I Need one. Interested in whether you found a seat yet and if so what make?

[@BikerTorque]

Haven’t changed the seat as yet, but did quite like the extra height of the Bobber seat on the R18 custom that a rode recently. We put up a video on that one about 3 weeks ago if you want to check it out.

[@ADSCoachSimonB2112]

2024 they have a few in the range now R18 Midnight, R18 Classic, R18 Bagger plus the new R18 Rocktane. They have a lot more colour options as well, and the Vance & Hines slip on is coming. I have the last of the Harley Iron 883 Evo 2017 Sportsters. I really like BMWs R18 STD in option 719 velvet green metallic. (The Urban GS is on that List, but its a wish List so)

[@BikerTorque]

I love the way that have integrated the speedo into the headlight on the Roctane ( great but odd name)

[@ADSCoachSimonB2112]

It’s interesting and very individual. With Harley dropping a lot of their lineup and ditching the evolution engine it’s going to be interesting to see how much BMW actually surprises. The rocktane is an interesting design on a baggy I like it.

[@BikerTorque]

@@ADSCoachSimonB2112 yeah I think it looks great. I took my R18 out last week for a decent ride, still love it

[@PatrickJWenzel]

Gosh I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Wunderlich cylinder leg rests!

[@BikerTorque]

To be honest, I find the standard rode position quite comfy, not sure I’d be happy with the feet forward position

[@jeremypetch7006]

The cross country seat tranforms the comfort dramatically.

[@BikerTorque]

Might have to look at that.

[@KrakensGarageandAdventures]

I too am searching for fish tails like the concept.

[@BikerTorque]

I think there is a company in Australia making them but only selling them as a bobber kit with bars, new tail and seat

[@oracensor5607]

Hi Ross love the vid, just bought one it’s hilariously brilliant. you mentioned you may get a more plush seat did you end up doing that ? And if so what did you get ? And did you ever consider a wind screen ? Cheers

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks mate, happy to hear you like the video. Hilariously brilliant is a very accurate description of the R18. Love mine, even though I really haven't put to many kms on it. Haven't bought a new seat yet, but the choice is between a Corbin (if I ever get round to riding it more) or more likely the BMW comfort seat. I wouldn't consider a screen for two reasons, a) I actually don't think it needs it, not to much wind blast, and b) I'm pretty vain and I reckon it would ruin the look of this classic styled bike. Thanks for watching, might have another could of R18 videos coming up in 2024

[@goatie977]

Hi great detailed review of a definitely quirky bike. I luv them .Is the seat something that can be rectified by going to some one like Ergo seats? What are your thoughts? Great

[@BikerTorque]

Yes, there are plenty of aftermarket seats available. I’m going to look at one of the touring seats, that by all reports are much more comfortable and also just slightly higher

[@jfro5867]

I own an R18. I like the mid pegs. I have owned two Harley’s with forward controls and I didn’t like it. On arrow straight long motorways I can see their attraction BUT in every other scenario not for me thanks. The R18 is lovely exactly as it is.

[@BikerTorque]

I am with you on the pegs, the placement of them is comfortable and engaging. Just like you, I’m not a fan of forward controls. Thanks for watching.

[@Vegesaurus7]

This bike is gorgeous and I would feel like a king riding it anywhere. I hear you Ross. And I don’t think it deserves any comparisons because it is just a special bike in its own right. Come on who doesn’t applaud BMW for building this amazing machine in a time like this? Also how did it feel coming down the other side of the hill at Mt Panorama? That track was a little scary on my Honda Hornet (but so much fun!)

[@BikerTorque]

I’ve ridden round Mt Panorama many times so know what to expect. The R18 was fine at the top section, now when I did a lesson riding a Kawasaki with a sidecar round the mount, well that’s another story.

[@Vegesaurus7]

@@BikerTorque haha that would be a very interesting experience. I was just surprised by the steepness riding the track in person.

[@BikerTorque]

@@Vegesaurus7 yes it’s pretty steep coming down through the S’s. Probably doesn’t show up as much on TV

[@whatsstefon]

Spectacular bike matey. I thought the suspension was great. Handled the dirt roads out of Tarana fine. Beautiful bike. I agree that everything on the bike is quality except for that cover.

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks Stef, yes the suspension is fine, but got to say the seat on the Bagger and in particular the Transcontinental is superb, like a lounge chair strapped to an engine

[@whatsstefon]

@@BikerTorque I can imagine.

[@danusiamikus8851]

The exhaust is the best thing about the R18 because it looks like the R 5, the only thing I hate about the R18 is keyless and the fact that it doesn't have an oil temperature or fuel gauge

[@BikerTorque]

I can live with the lack of oil temp and fuel gauge. Just wished it had cruise control.

[@robertprosser6856]

Beautiful bike well done BMW.

[@BikerTorque]

It really is!

[@1sprchrgd]

great review helped me finalise. whats your opinion on the helmet. thats the exact arai i want to get.

[@BikerTorque]

Cheers, glad it helped. Which model are you thinking of buying. Regarding the Arai Concept X, really comfortable helmet, and looks great, but also have a look at the Contour X, my mate has one and I think it suits the R18 aesthetic a bit better. Either way great lids.

[@richardphillips1041]

Great information, what's the ground clearance like on these?

[@BikerTorque]

Not sure exact measurement, but if you ride in a spirited fashion it’s relatively easy to scrap the pegs.

[@camm9397]

love to see a review on best dirt bike 250 for bush fun

[@BikerTorque]

Shall see what we can organise

[@motoheadz-motovlog]

great review

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks, glad you liked it

[@sidekickstreams]

I just saw a 100th anniversary R18 in chrome. It is the most beautiful ... anything ... on wheels. I'd almost feel bad riding, my ugly ass bring it back to reality

[@BikerTorque]

Agree, those 100th anniversary bikes look great, both the R18 and the R NineT

[@darrenstopler3045]

Great review, can i ask what the number plate size your using is?

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it. Not sure if exact measurement but it’s a standard size number plate in NSW

[@gl2856]

Have to agree with all you say , pretty spot on mate, my only gripe is the standard seat, which isn’t comfortable at all , well done , great report. I’ve even subscribed. 😂 gl U.K.

[@BikerTorque]

Thank, glad you enjoyed the video, they really are a wonderful bike. We have plenty more reviews and rider stories coming up in 2023 so thanks for subscribing to the channel.

[@trevormillard1339]

That is beautiful. But how would it suit a 6’5” rider like me

[@BikerTorque]

I have a mate who rode it, he’s 6’3”, said it was absolutely fine.

[@mymatemartin]

I just can't yet get my head past the perceived exposure of the cylinder heads. Like so many other BMW bikes, does not this aspect of their engine design make then more prone to serious engine damage if dropped?

[@BikerTorque]

I think it’s a common concern that many people who are new to boxers have. But BMW have been making bikes with this design for a very, very long time and are more than aware of any potential issues that could arise. I’ve had one relatively low speed drop of one of my other boxers, only damage was some scratches on the rocker cover, and fairly confident that didn’t get any serious injury to my leg because of the engine design. I think if you have a drop bad enough to cause serious damage to the engine then you’ll probably be having bigger things to worry about. Thanks for watching and taking time to make a comment.

[@stanleylawson9015]

awesome bike, but no cruise option nor standard here in UK for 22 models

[@BikerTorque]

That’s interesting, standard here in now.

[@jorgeson3586]

As long as they’re air cooled (oil cooler acceptable) and twin cylinder, I am in.

[@BikerTorque]

Agree, actually come to think of it, none of my bikes are liquid cooled, and mostly twins

[@theneutralplatform4834]

Have you had a look at the Triumph Rocket, what are your views?

[@BikerTorque]

I watched the online press launch of it about 6 weeks ago and was impressed. Keen to get a ride on one when Triumph here in Australia has some in their press fleet. Also getting a Ducati Diavel V4S for review which is probably the other bike in this segment.

[@hachewie]

Awesome review. Well done. #BBTN Not sure if it would suit a tall rider like myself. I know I’d enjoy that torque though.

[@BikerTorque]

You’ll have to take mine for a ride Chewie. You may be surprised, I reckon it would have as much room if not more than your Kwaka.

[@hachewie]

@@BikerTorque I’d love to try it.

[@BikerTorque]

@@hachewie done my friend.

[@waydegardner7373]

I’m 6’4” 220lbs with a 33” inseam. Very comfortable riding position. Seat comfort not so much.

[@wickked3]

rough craft makes that exact exhaust system:)

[@BikerTorque]

Ok, I will be checking them out

[@davidbones8947]

I dig the bike and to my freaking amazement my wife saw this bike and said that is a great looking motorcycle lol she is a harley girl her whole life i would change the mufflers

[@BikerTorque]

Your wife clearly has impeccable taste. Thanks for watching

[@BigBert]

Love that you score it high for the big jugs 😖😂🤣

[@BikerTorque]

I knew someone would pick up on that, and had a very sneaky suspicion it may have been you Big Bert. I was talking about the beers at Oktoberfest of course.

[@BigBert]

@@BikerTorque 🤭Of course you were Ross!

[@blairbrown4812]

9:24-9:26 "A Honda Rider will say that their pride and joy is absolutely and completely devoid of soul." Honda Valkyrie Rune:Am I a joke to you?

[@BikerTorque]

I don’t know the Honda Valkyrie…so can’t comment

[@sprezzatura8755]

I owned a Rune. Absolutely loved it. But not so user-friendly. More of a weekend show bike.

[@LimitedGunnerGM]

Could you post a link for that oil cooler cover?

[@BikerTorque]

Pretty sure it was this one, www.wunderlichaustralia.com/collections/all-items-for-this-bike-r-18/products/wunderlich-oil-cooler-shroud-with-protective-function-chromed

[@johngilholme6449]

This is my favourite motorcycle and I would love to own one but unfortunately that won't be happening.

[@BikerTorque]

You can take mine for a run John

[@johngilholme6449]

@@BikerTorque that would be awesome.

[@QuietStormX]

Work of Art..;-D

[@BikerTorque]

Absolutely

[@rsmith3033]

bmw needs to release a service manaul or mine will b for sale

[@BikerTorque]

I’m sure it’s on it way

[@rsmith3033]

well i’m @ 6,200 miles an bmw specs. call for valve adj. i bought this bike to ride from now on, an i want to keep it in as perfect of condition as possible

[@baumie461]

LoL! Love the Honda comment 😀😉 Mate, you must be doing something right, because every review, I hear myself saying "I could really see myself riding that!" 👍👌 Ps Who needs forward controls when you have leg warming rests!

[@BikerTorque]

I could see you riding an R18 Jaimie. What is it with Hondas, superbly engineered but a bit “meh”. Leg warmers work well on a chilly morning ride through Blainey.

[@chadkline4268]

The cylinders also protect your feet and ankles and most of the bike if you ever take a spill.

[@garybaldwin1061]

Has bmw released a service manual?

[@BikerTorque]

Not sure

[@martinstults9419]

I've heard the mirrors vibrant at highway speed, enough so a that you can't tell how many cars are being you. What do you say?

[@BikerTorque]

The cars behind me couldn’t keep up so didn’t bother using the mirrors. Just kidding. I actually didn’t notice too much vibration, yes there was a little but no more than any other bike.

[@martinstults9419]

@@BikerTorque My 2007 R1200GS mirrors don't vibrant at any speed. Forty years ago I road a H-D Wide Glide. At night I couldn't tell if one car or ten cars were behind me.

[@bradywise8825]

I love riding mine 21 r18 1st south central Texas I haven't seen another yet, but would like to

[@BikerTorque]

Nice one Brady, love mine they are such a great bike. Thanks for watching.

[@ad78]

This model is now $16.5k which was amazing price. On the other hand Harley sportster S priced the same. Obviously H-D is smoking some crack lmao!

[@BikerTorque]

I just can’t get used to the look of that HD Sportster S. I’m sure it rides well but to neo-modern for me ( if neo-modern is even a thing).

[@ad78]

@@BikerTorque its ugly dude. Saw one in person. Wire dangling around and its not even close to 16.3k maybe the quality is 10k. R18 is so priced well.

[@BikerTorque]

@@ad78 yep, maybe I was being to polite. Haven’t seen one in up close though, only photos

[@rubo1964]

Not same category love R1800 here in NE I can get one under 13k with few thousand miles on them.Seems lot of them were traded in rather early....

[@murraylove3632]

Luv it...👍👍

[@BikerTorque]

Thanks, glad you liked the video

[@ObscureJester]

I love the bike but I am very concerned about two things: 1) it's VERY pricy and BMW doesn't have a solid reputation of reliability with 40% failure rate. Quite a risky purchase. 2) It didn't sell well, I am afraid it might go off production.

[@BikerTorque]

Not sure where you got your stats from regarding reliability, I’ve owned 4 R series BMWs and they have been the most reliable bikes I’ve ever owned, haven’t heard to many issues regarding reliability. Agree they are pricey, but they are all quality. I believe they are starting to really move some now, don’t think they will go out of production

[@ObscureJester]

@@BikerTorque most forums on bikes have similar figures in reliability for BMW. While I don't take them as the ultimate truth, we can all agree they are less reliable than Yamaha or Honda. Point is, if I buy an R18 (at a premium price already) and something goes wrong, it's not a $100 fix but a $1000+ or so. And if it goes off production, it's gonna be even harder.

[@lt8x7]

40% failure rate ... bulls@#t. Forums are the last place to get statistics from - negative posts are 100:1 against positive posts. I have an R75/5 which has been out of production for more than 40 years and I can still get parts and service for it from BMW. There is no hint that it will go out of production - they even added to the range with the Bagger and the Transcontinental recently.

[@BikerTorque]

@@lt8x7 agree it’s not going out of production any time soon and if you believe the rumours we may see a baby brother the R12 at some point in the next year or so

[@ronaldthomas9396]

If BMW had made those mufflers without the standing seams they would be beautiful! But as is they look like very early Japanese junk !

[@BikerTorque]

Not sure I’d describe them as junk, but not totally in love with them either

[@bradywise8825]

I'm right with you bought one love it

[@BikerTorque]

I’ve manage to rack up a few kms on mine in the last month or so and have to say I’m loving more with each ride. Cracking bike. Thanks for watching

[@argishtenterprise]

Australian English very sweet

[@BikerTorque]

Lol, thanks

[@rabbidbabies4094]

I mean, you’re not wrong. Honda’s are pretty soulless 😂

[@BikerTorque]

😂 pretty sure I upset some Honda riders.

[@jeffreyloprete4745]

Nice review. I love my 2021 R18 Classic First Ed. Beautiful and fun to ride. I removed my servo motors for better sound. And i want to get that chrome cover you mentioned for oil cooler. Cheers mate

[@boxofmoles4057]

An American pie run is much better. 😋

[@BikerTorque]

Lol, I don’t know about that. Might have to head back over to states and get in an Indian or a HD and check for myself

[@boxofmoles4057]

@@BikerTorque Indian or HD?!? 🤮🤢 R18CLA!!

[@BikerTorque]

@@boxofmoles4057 lol, but when I’m Rome…

[@axelfunke6527]

Made in Germany Technologie 😊

[@BikerTorque]

Absolutely

[@rorynicholson3295]

The dull & raw alloy engine contrasted against the black cylinders, chrome rocker covers looks terrible. Why couldn't BMW have dressed the engine with a better finish?

[@BikerTorque]

I actually like the finish on the engine, I think it’s a nice contrast to the cooling fins and rocker covers

[@rorynicholson3295]

@@BikerTorque Fair enough, each to their own.👍

[@edwardlong2478]

I have the Mars Red, gray casing. It’s growing on me. To get what you want you’ll have to specify. I just visited the dealer where I purchased my bike, they just put a blacked out version on the floor, upgraded wheels, I almost passed out and actually said my salesperson “ can I trade in for that one?? Lol … it would have been too much of a loss….. I’ll tell you what it was bad ass. Not many floating around yet. Seen quite a few HD cats trading in for the Bimmer ….. going to be an interesting summer 🤣

[@bradywise8825]

Have one very nice

[@BikerTorque]

Very nice indeed. Still loving mine