Picking Up a BMW R18

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

The R 18 will definitely feel alien after getting off the little Ducati. After I first reviewed it, it stuck in my mind, so I bought one. There’s nothing like it!

[@FreddieDobbs]

I definitely see why you like it!

[@kevindarkstar]

Tbh that huge bike would feel alien compared to just about anything 😉

[@cliveadams7629]

I test drove one a few weeks ago. Horrible. Too heavy and lumbering, not relaxing to ride at all. So glad to get back on my GS which felt like a moped and brakes that work!.

[@cliveadams7629]

@MrDarcy-theOlMan If one of those landed on your chest, it would be all over for you!

[@jfro5867]

@@cliveadams7629 Why would you even compare the R18 to a GS? Completely different bikes. Ridiculous comparison. The R18 is wonderfully relaxing to ride. I know I own one, it’s Royal.

[@808TheDuck]

I picked up the very same bike today. After 40 years of H-D ( the last 21 on a 1995 Electra Glide) I now have a Bimmer! As my wife no longer wants to ride I decided to get a more basic (or so I thought) motorcycle. I had test ridden 2 of the new H-D M8 bikes and they are very powerful and smooth. Incredibly nice bikes and light years ahead of a 1995 model. Then I saw this R18. I was immediately attracted to it and when I sat on it...almost an epiphany! Did some research and then scheduled a test ride. Bought it then and there. I had my parameters as to what I wanted and was willing to spend and the R18 checked off every box! Wow! As for being a "basic" bike, there is a whole lotta technology that comes with it. Functions are controlled by some buttons on the handlebars and it all displays on the speedometer. Adaptive cruise control, traction control, hill start function, riding modes and more....... Gonna take me awhile to figure all of this out. Looking forward to it!

[@michaelkruck-weimuller31]

Best part as always: “Monica, are you ready?” - “Yes, I am.”

[@eddiemizen3703]

Now with greeted teeth 😬

[@sergentcolon1]

Why am I getting flashbacks to an episode of Porridge with that comment?

[@88davidw]

I love the R18! Looking forward to this series. So no fuel gauge…. What I do on my R9T is reset the trip meter every time I fill up. I then know I have about 180miles out of the tank. Also when the fuel light comes on I probably have around 40miles on the reserve anyway.

[@wave6413]

So I have both the Honda CMX 1100 (rebel) and the R18 Classic. Road trips on the R18 make the 1100 feel like a toy. Get off the R18 and jump on the 1100 its feels feather weight. The Honda is lovely but looks like the left hand side of new Harley Rev Max - A bit ugly. The BMW is all class, I had never ridden a full size cruiser and it was a flight of fancy to get it, but its a great ride and I see why these bikes are a "thing". I absolutely love mine, but it is a land barge and navigating it requires some pre planning. The Honda is like a speed boat. Surprisingly the R18 is not much slower on twisty road I run them both down. Fueling on the R18 is sublime.....Mechanical noises amazing....Rolling art form.

[@DizzConnected]

Freddie, to ensure you get the best experience out of your time with the R18, make sure you set the preload on the rear suspension. It's clear that a lot of these demo bikes aren't set up for the riders. If set too soft, this causes excessive sag and peg scraping etc. If set too hard, it will give a harsher ride. Setup is easily done via the adjuster bolt under the right side cover. The manual gives a clear instruction on how to do it. Use your body weight and allow an extra 5-10kg for your riding gear. Fully counterclockwise is set for ~85kg rider including gear. Turn clockwise 1 x rotation for every 5kg above 85kg. If you're not 85kg, you can always add some load 🙂 I'm 6'5" ~100kg + gear, and the adjustment made a big difference to the suspension compliance and greatly reduced peg scraping.

[@DiscoFang]

Love that ignition start at 8:36. Check the headset and whole bike twitch and shake it's head! Like a lion waking up.

[@sergentcolon1]

Torque reaction to starting, all boxer engined BMW’s do it when you blip the throttle as the crank runs parallel with the wheels.

[@johnrobertharland3975]

Great to see the bonneville back. Felt emotional when you got it back in the last video. Like seeing an old friend return.

[@FreddieDobbs]

It really was, John. I’m genuinely excited to have it back. It’s currently sitting downstairs waiting for the BMW to be returned!😆

[@FreddieDobbs]

It really was!

[@noelleahy7427]

Do yourself a R18 favour.... pull off the rhs side panel and ensure the rear shock preload is set for your weight... they ship with no preload for shipping tie down purposes.... you will need about 6 turns.... the spanner for it is behind the panel... correct preload will sort most peg scraping issues. Also... the front brake has a firm lever.... responds more to presure then "travel".... so squeeze and stoping power is there.... but if a new bike.... some hard high speed stops helps with bedding in. I got an R18 as a second bike and ride it hard in the local hills..... unbelievable fun in the 2,000 to 4,000 rpm range torquing out of bends..... paid 2/3 of retail for a 1st edition similar to your bike (Adelaide, South Australia).... all the local old men will come and look at it when at the shops.... and tell you there life story... but no babes.... so Monica is safe to let you ride it alone.... anyway... I'm 62 and the weight is nothing with proper technique.... you'll soon get use to it.... always ride in rock... when hooning it is the closest you will get to low flying a ww2 radial engine plane with a vibrating air frame.... just to get some milk down at the shops.... so... not an everyday bike in my view... but a special bike that you want to ride every day!

[@KimmoJaskari]

You know, the conventional way to use punctuation is to just do it once between sentences. You don't need four or five.

[@noelleahy7427]

​@@KimmoJaskariengarlish not my first sandwich..... what you mean%

[@nelsonphilip4520]

Not an everday bike but a bike you'll want to ride everyday! Luv it & Well Said!!

[@posthan]

@@nelsonphilip4520

[@posthan]

@@nelsonphilip4520

[@TallBiker]

Love some of the old school details on the R18 - the open/visible shaft drive and the chrome tubes housing the valve push rods to name two.

[@FreddieDobbs]

It’s incredible isn’t it!

[@anic6559]

Freddie. Thanks for the reviews mate. I just bought one of these. 2022 with 719 paint and reverse. Must have. reverse on these. They will deliver in 3 to 4 days. I can't wait. Love your videos.

[@meshplates]

Trip meter at fill up. Old school method.

[@jfro5867]

Had mine 15 months. Love it. Ride in ROCK mode it’s the best. Reset trip A upon filling up and ride for about 120 ish miles then a fuel warning lamp comes on the dash when you have about a gallon left (40 miles on ‘reserve’ if you like). Should do around 50mpg. Learn to short shift it and ride in the sweet spot of low revs, big torque. Enjoy 👍

[@chrishart8548]

I have forgotten what rock road is. I know the other bmw bikes have road, rain, enduro, enduro Pro, dynamic, tour, unless dynamic is one of the suspension ones. And dynamic pro, that does sound like suspension.

[@jfro5867]

@@chrishart8548 It’s not literal Chris. Rock is dynamic mode, Roll is like road and Rain is what it says. There’s a noticeable difference between modes and for me Rock is the one. You get most sensation and urgency from the motor. It has nothing to do with suspension set up.

[@chrishart8548]

@@jfro5867 someone else said rock was like sport mode. And roll was road. And rain was rain. I just couldn't remember.

[@jfro5867]

@@chrishart8548 yea no problem, Rock is the most fun and the bike really comes alive, Roll is a bit more mellow that’s all. 90bhp is similar to the big Harleys, it’s because the engines don’t rev high, they just pump out huge torque.

[@ctmac9404]

having the R18 first edition for a year now, I’m looking forward to this one. Having put 2000 miles on it, my only advice for want of a better word, is keep it in Rock, and use the Rain mode when absolutely necessary. Don’t bother with Roll. This will help you get the real experience of the machine, and it’s still totally useable in everyday situations..

[@simonpayne7959]

As a fellow R18 owner, completely agree.

[@markwhitehead1658]

Hi. Ive gone from big bikes back to small. I bought a little chrome and Bronze RE 350 reborn . I love it . Its reminded my why I got into bikes so many years ago. I havent touched my 1200 bandit since March . Filtering is now almost a pleasure lol.

[@quentinhilpert9606]

I fell over on mine crossing a cement river crossing that was slimed over. Not going fast at all BUT stupid me I did not coast across. The rear end broke lose and I fished tailed maybe 3 tails worth and then fell over on the right side. I'm 69. I turned the bars to get the most leverage on the right grip (down side) squatted down lifted with my legs and up it came no strain or grunting. WOW! They are heavy but if it falls over lifting it back up, you can do it.

[@andrewd7586]

I’ve had mine now Freddie for just on 3 years. Each & every time I look at it then get on it & start it, I smile! Having gone from the BMW S1000RR, the S1000R, along the way, this is my sanity!😵‍💫🤪🤣😎🇦🇺

[@bdrew1111]

Thank you Freddie for having such an electrically enthusiastic personality, your videos bring an uncontrollable smile to my face and after the week I've just had, I really needed it, you're awesome 😎🏍

[@FreddieDobbs]

Thank you so much drew. Have a fantastic day🙂

[@bdrew1111]

@@FreddieDobbs Thank you 🙂👍 you too!

[@Dozeyish]

Lol😂 Freddy Here's an online tip yo tell how much fuel you have in your bike. Open the fuel cap and look inside. This ancient procedure worked from the beginning of motorcycling up untill I bought my first modern bike last year. Total respect love what you do. Your channel always cheers me u. Thank you

[@chrishart8548]

I think we have a lot of bikes now this does not work with. Many have baffles in the tank to stop the fuel sloshing around. It makes many of them hard to fill up.

[@chrischallis301]

I currently have an R18 and it’s an amazing bike, it’s just to heavy for types of riding I do. Much preferred my R9T for those countryside blasts

[@chrishart8548]

I looked at one it's very impressive in person. I can't get over how wide it is, I swear it must be as wide as a smart car. The riding position feels great and it really does feel heavy between your legs.

[@noelleahy7427]

I kept my r nine t (21 Scrambler) when I got my R18 (amazingly the wife was ok with that)..... haven't ridden the scrambler much in the last 5 months.....

[@joshuajames1720]

Freddie, my mate and I are currently in Northern Italy, we rode here from the UK. We are heading to Sicily slowly over the next 4-6 weeks. If you can join us for a leg, we would be overjoyed!

[@richkentbondoc5206]

watching your content has always been a moment for me to pick up some sense of sanity while grueling through, even on a sunday morning, the hellish struggles of law study.

[@FreddieDobbs]

Delighted to be a little outlet, Rich. Good luck with the studies!

[@ashpunting]

What a beautiful bike this reminds me of the Brough Superior witch. It makes it look extra special with all that chrome

[@backontwowheels9469]

Ahh you was up near my old neck of the woods for 5 years I stayed in Rushden and took in the delights of Rushden lakes. Now in Bedford, need to treat myself to a trip down to Ipswich sometime soon on my Speedmaster Chrome.

[@marcelisujecki4707]

The Transcontinental r 18 is a bike you must try also! Is a mix between new and old technology that creates a experience for two up like nothing else! 👍

[@greyriddance64]

Fascinating motorcycle, but jesus how heavy! I felt it when you leaned to get it on the sidestand. Cannot imagine having to push it around 🥲 And honestly, it's a bit too gucci for you.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Monica’s camera work is as impeccable as ever! That R18 may be a lovely A road cruiser but perhaps so heavy it risks being a one trick pony. Wouldn’t fancy lugging that off the side stand loaded up with luggage!

[@valentinrizvan1870]

I love the R18. Currently have a Speedmaster 1200 and I was contemplating on upgrading to R18 or Rocket 3. How does it compare the Speedmaster?

[@clayfarnet970]

I never ridden a R18, but I believe they are the best value on the used market. In my opinion it’s a one year old after depreciation, is the best bang for your buck.

[@chrishart8548]

From 20k too 10k after 1 year by the looks of it.

[@vittoriomauriello6695]

Yes! You should definetively try to review the newest moto guzzi v7 with the new 850cc engine and maybe in the special version

[@crgmrgn]

The green shell under restoration was a Ferrari 308GT4 2+2 designed by Bertone in the mid seventies, much under-appreciated classic these days, a great drive.

[@biker_dale]

One of my favorite cars the Daytona, such a beautiful timeless car. I remember sitting on the BMW at the motorbike show last year and realising how big it was. I was just not used to being able to stretch my legs out, but undeniably a thing of beauty.

[@TheWuseln]

I love the R18, for me it's one if not the best looking bikes. I testdrove one for about 15 minutes but am unsure with my 6"6' whether it will be comfortable.

[@scottsimmons6928]

I prefer the bonnie

[@andrewdyson4255]

I would have hoped any motorcycle manufacturer/ dealer would have done a walk through before you got to ride it. It could catch you out if you were unlucky

[@marcverdi665]

Wow, that is a good looking bike! I cannot get over how far the boxer engine sticks out, though, as I prefer a more streamlined aesthetic. But overall, just stunning. And the fact that you got number 1 of 1923! Very cool. Looking forward to your full review.

[@dpuckett]

They all say 1 of 1923. Not specifically numbered.

[@marcverdi665]

@@dpuckett interesting. Thanks!

[@huwtgriffiths4448]

Your passion for biking is commendable 👍🏻

[@raimee81]

My gosh. It looks like they took a WW2 fighter plane engine and put a motorcycle around it. I just noticed an awesome detail. The exhaust exit is the BMW logo!

[@FreddieDobbs]

Doesn’t it!

[@kaspars1981]

I am may be wrong, but BMW all their limiter cars and bikes, label 1/XXX. Technicaly they all are 1st ones. :) However i always smile, when You start every ride with 3-4step walk on bike when releasing clutch :)

[@stuartosborn4785]

Further to my last comment: I absolutely love mine its an event every time i ride and the torque is addictive . Despite touring on it im not sure I'd want it as my only bike . I'm 6'1" tall and 14 stone and i have no trouble moving it about .....if i did id just use the forward and reverse gears.

[@olavskov-su4hv]

Love your videos .... Small detail I observed ... Unlike other shaft drives, this is actually "open" ,and you see the driveshaft rotate ... Instantly brougt my mind to old steam locomotives, where you see all these moving parts ... Great effect on a beautyfull bike ...

[@FreddieDobbs]

This is a very nicely observed similarity- a steam locomotive is now all I can think of when I see it

[@timhope9940]

Morning Freddie, That bike just looks so heavy I can only imagine what it feels like! It has one of the longest wheel bases I have ever seen on a bike, although for all the German quality and tech etc I think for that kind of money I would probably want a big Harley so it will be Interesting to get your final verdict. Cheers Freddie👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

They’ve made a very bold move to aim it squarely at the high end Harleys! From a quality point of view at least, it loses out to no one💪🏼

[@gelatoibiza7226]

Freddie, my friend, As a R18 owner I have to warn you to be really really careful with it because before you realise it , you are going to fall in love with it so bad that is going to be difficult riding anything else after. Jokes aside, thanks for an unique content in your channel and congratulations.all the best. Alex.

[@noelleahy7427]

I have hardly ridden my scrambler in the 5 months or so I have had my R18....... go figure....

[@oliverkrause4347]

I think you figured it out already, "Roll" is like the standard mode, "Rock" is like sport mode and "Rain" is rain... And does it also have a "Reverse" by activating it in the menue and than hitting the starter button? That would make life much easier.

[@pjodi]

9:40 - Look at the BMW badge on the end of the tailpipe. Nice attention to detail.

[@RossLawley]

After getting my license with BMW Motorrad, I've got a huge appreciation for BMW bikes and I think the R18 is my ultimate bike. I prefer the exhaust on the 100 year version and to be on #1 is pretty cool. Looking forward to your thoughts. The boxer engine looks intimidating and I hadnt thought about it hiding the foot controls!

[@chrishart8548]

I still feel my ultimate bmw bike is the r1300r.

[@planefrog]

The company I used to work at had a big lock up right next to a garage that race prepared all manner of fancy cars. Ferraris, Lambos, Porsches, you name it. Whenever we got the chance to go to the lock up we'd spend a very long time just going round looking all the fancy cars in various states of preparation. I think a lot of people would be surprised at just how little framework, etc. is in a lot of sports cars. Not much protection in a crash. As always I'll be interested to hear what the BMW is like to live with. I really keep hoping you'll get a KTM 690 smcr as it's on a short list of bikes I'm interested in.

[@ChancellorBeeHaw]

Seen this bike several times on Old man and Mr Darcy's channel. Sure they'd be happy to hear all the praise you have for this gorgeous bike! Would you ever own one yourself Freddie? My Pa used to ride a BMW and I showed him this one a week back and he marveled at it despite it not being the style he's quite used to.

[@FreddieDobbs]

I watch their channel a lot (one of my favourites👌🏻). First impressions are very positive!

[@chrishart8548]

​@FreddieDobbs I've seen them for just over £10k for sale for an Almost new one, seams like a bargain, I thought they were going to hold their value a lot better,

[@Yelwas]

Freddie if the Ol' Man has one you need one too, but for me I am going to spend my yennies on a Sport Glide

[@Yelwas]

even the BMW logo in the end of the exhaust COOL

[@martinandsharonwotherspoon4909]

So Freddie, when can we see you review the new Transalp 750. It was your unbiased review of the 600 that got me in to watching your travels

[@andrewpodmore2440]

I like to imagine, that should I ever ride a bike, I will hear Ibiza cafe chill music playing in my mind. 😀. Great videos guys, love the enthusiasm.

[@ukvamp]

i tried the Ducati Scrambler 1100 and i hated it, i'm tall at 6ft2 with a 35inch leg and my legs were just too tucked up! i also hated how unforgiving the gearbox was. i bought a speed twin 1200 in the end, despite being a lot smaller than the Ducati Scrambler 1100, i find it a far better fit

[@boodog4023]

A point of reference: the R18 weighs 50 pounds less than an HD Road King. There are engine guards available that can double as foot rest so that you can stretch out your legs if need be. When I hear that poppy boxer engine I feel like the Red Baron going down the road on a--mixed metaphor--Stuka. It is the closest thing that I have heard that sounds like an 80's Porsche 911.

[@1990-t1j]

The Scrambler 1100 is a light bike for a litre-plus machine. I bet you'd like it. The BMW is a bike you'll really like, I'll wager.

[@FreddieDobbs]

I think you’re right on both points!

[@stuartosborn4785]

Ive had an R18 since February. The lack of popularity means i was able to pick up a brand new pre-reg first edition with reverse gear for £13,000 . Its an epic ride but give it a chance Freddy . You may need a good few miles to gel with it . I toured Ireland on it a few weeks ago and the riding position was all-day comfortable for my 6'1" frame

[@DiscoFang]

That seems cheap in comparison with the apparent competition like the Rocket and Harley. This, for all it's in your face presence, manages a far more subdued and subtle style.

[@stuartosborn4785]

@@DiscoFang it was cheap plus they gave me a really good trade-in price on my 15 year old Harley . It got a lot of positive comments from Danish and German tourists when I toured Ireland on it . There are great secondhand bargains out there now

[@KimmoJaskari]

A reverse gear would be the one thing I wish my bike had. I'm large and strong enough to muscle it around but there are situations where a gear would help.

[@stuartosborn4785]

@@KimmoJaskari yes I've definitely felt the benefit of the reverse gear a few times

[@rnat9246]

Awesome review. But finding first gear, Yes sometimes when in neutral we need to move the bike a bit and engage first gear and it works. I had this situation with my bmw r nine t as well. I have the same bike. Also the exhaust sound could be louder and deeper, Vance and Hines exhaust will do but I hate to customize this beautiful bike.

[@franktreadwell3442]

Staggeringly beautiful bikes

[@MrPerrogaton]

With the money in my hands I would have a Street Bob or even a Sport Glide or second hand Heritage. Better performance in trips and better resale.

[@honestlion17]

Of course you would as these motorcycles are reserved for gentlemen.

[@MrPerrogaton]

@@honestlion17 Good answer but boxer engine will never be a gentlemen motor, it is rude, noisy and made for the military use. It is an adventure guy motor. If you're a gentlemen you better ride a Triumph.

[@honestlion17]

@@MrPerrogaton Touche, what about a Moto Guzzi?

[@MrPerrogaton]

@@honestlion17 Guzzi V7 will be probably my next bike. I love Harleys but I am getting old and fancy a lighter machine. The new R12 Roadster looks fantastic too. The cheap one I mean. A bit expensive but second hand...

[@honestlion17]

@MrPerrogaton I have a 2021 V7 and absolutely love it , but it's a little too tight for 2 up on long rides. If it had a little longer wheel base, it would be great. My R18 has the same soul as the V7 with a little more character thrown in. It is quite a bit heavier, but the weight is down low. You can pick up a 2021 V7 for around 6k. According to my wife It's the most comfortable motorcycle she has ever been on, and I have had many over the years. KLX 650, 919, VStrom, Vmax, Goldwing, CTX 700, just to name a few.

[@LostYogi]

10:25 BMW logo in the exhaust pipes

[@FreddieDobbs]

We’ll spotted!

[@moto-coupe]

What an awesome looking bike! Looks like it’s come out of a comic book, love it! Enjoy 👍

[@Jagshemasher]

I sat on an R18 in a dealership . . . it seemed incredibly heavy (it is) and I ride an FJR1300 which is by no means a light bike.

[@tommongan2750]

Looking forward to see what you think of the BMW 👍👍👍

[@SeanSean1892]

Would definitely love to hear your views on a Super Meteor soon if Royal Enfield are kind enough to give you the bike for a few weeks! Keep up the great work freddie, you do an awesome job with with your channels and podcast. I really enjoy listening to your opinions and thoughts on various bikes and topics. Very different to most other channels out there 👍

[@volt8684]

I believe this model has not sold well and we’re available at very good prices. To me a lovely looking bike but oh so heavy. Depends what want in a bike? If I was to have that style would be a diavel. Beautiful looking paint job. My 1997 r1100r was a special edition cant remember which 80th I think came with bmw factory book, had black paint with gold piping was a gorgeous looking machine and lovely to ride if you didn’t want go over 80 but. Anywhere in between superb. Wish I’d never sold it. I think the air cooled old bmw twins were their best bikes very reliable and long lasting. I’ve not gone down the cruiser route yet but have test ridden a few but too heavy. I like a light torquey bike now as I age that I am not frightened to put on its stand etc.

[@guzz1jon]

'If I did ever manage to get in touch with Moto Guzzi' - The lament of Guzzi owners world wide! That BMW - Where's the rest of the aeroplane?

[@leeandjancruise]

Great vlog as ever Freddie, surprised you skipped past the Kawasaki Triple, a legend.

[@mojmirbittner7088]

I have just returned Tribute Pro 1100 (sadly they finish this year) and it was amazing too

[@SteveSeadog]

The BMW Behemoth is far too heavy for me, but I can see the attraction. Looking forward to your review in a couple of weeks.

[@22Royston]

So Freddie -BMW R18 cruiser or Harley Softail (low rider or breakout) -which do you choose?

[@shaunlambe7072]

Wish I’d have know you’d be so close Freddie, realised that video is at Rushden Lakes, I’m literally round the corner! Would have been great to meet up and have a coffee. Maybe next time 👍

[@nelsoncanteroramosgimenez9265]

Every “100 years” bike has that plaque on the tank. I have an R Nine T of the same type, but the real number of unit is in the chassis , mine is 254. What it means is than every one is one OF a limited edition of 1923 bikes.

[@peterconnell3162]

I saw one if these in the flesh when my local BMW dealer was trying to convince me to buy one when I was selling my Harley tourer. The fit and finish is excellent, and it does look great. I love a boxer engine, and own a BMW, and I love a cruiser, and own a Harley Davidson, but this bike was outside my comfort zone!. I could not understand who would buy it. I am really looking forward to seeing how you get on with it on day to day riding over the next two weeks. Does it have the reverse gear I wonder?!.

[@teneretraveller8980]

All boxers should be aiir cooled. The new GS is for me way too complex now and smoothing out the old lumpy looks is in my opinion a mistake. But if finding the fuel gauge is an issue even on the R18 what does that say about form over function? Just zero the trip when you fill up. And no pillion? Hmmm. Ride safe and happy travels 👍

[@MaaZeus]

As cool as that boxer engine is, it does limit your options to mid controls only and that is a big no no for me in a cruiser. Low seat height and mids = almost no blood flow in my hips. For a person as tall as I am sitting on it is almost like squatting. I don't know how Darcys old man can ride his R18 so comfortably even though he is almost as big as I am. 😅

[@FreddieDobbs]

A very good point- this is a genuine issue for a good chunk of people

[@raulsalanaranjo6565]

These plaques are often seen in the automotive world, and usually 1 of 1200 doesn’t mean it’s the first one, but a unit of the limited edition.

[@ilikelampshades6]

Had the opportunity to buy a limited edition one this year in a gorgeous purple for £12,000 brand new. Really wanted to dechrome it and make it a cafe-racer style bike but figured it would cost too much. Ended up with a limited edition Triumph T120 instead. Far more practical and turns out having a fuel guage is essential for a motorbike

[@jfro5867]

Funny how riders managed all through the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and even 90’s then….

[@ilikelampshades6]

@@jfro5867 Like everything back then, it was easier. They probably didn't need to commute 50 miles to work

[@SirOsisofLiver]

@@jfro5867We managed, but it was a lot more inconvenient. Everyone at some point or other would forget to set a trip odo, or forget the mileage at their last fill up and end up out of fuel in the middle of nowhere. The lack of a fuel gauge at this point is just insipid.

[@ilikelampshades6]

@SirOsisofLiver I can only imagine how infuriating that would be. Don't understand why they didn't put one on this bike though

[@SirOsisofLiver]

@@ilikelampshades6 At the time, it was just the way it was. But that was then. I haven’t had a bike without a fuel gauge since the 1990s. I’m as mystified as you are regarding BMW’s omission. I very seriously considered the R18, because I absolutely love how it looks. I’ve not owned cruisers before, so wasn’t sure about the riding position, and my back is dodgy. I ended up getting a ridiculously good deal on a V85 Adventure, so went that way. I may yet get an R18, even if it ends up being a bit of a garage queen.

[@BP-xe7dw]

The only item that I dislike about the R18 is the set up of its protruding cylinders. All designs have their own flaws. For me , when traveling, the ability to move my feet freely on the floorboards is indispensable. I had all motorcycle configurations through the years. A v twin with floorboards is my preference. Lovely bike though.

[@borderlands6606]

The R18 would be truly terrifying on our hilly, adverse camber hairpins. Imagine dabbing fresh air as a car on the wrong side halts progress, and the bike puts on another 100 kilos with every degree from vertical. Not too bad on a motorway I expect.

[@noelleahy7427]

Total fun if a skilled rider...... just a big smile every ride.... really surprised me! (I ride windy hills roads 90% of the time on mine)

[@mantarayal]

The first mode setting might be...ummm...rock and roll? Suggesting the full beans? Just a thought from a kiwi fan...Love these bikes

[@Santi_Mancini]

It’s absolutely amazing that such a great brand as Triumph is not able to fix a problem in one of its most iconic models, impeding you to ride your bike for several months! Hopefully, thanks to your reputation you could enjoy of some other bikes for free while waiting, but can you imagine that the average owner would have been without his bike for such a long time, and this for just a missing spare part? I’m sure many other Triumph owners all over the World have had this problem, but where not so lucky… Anyway in your videos, and even without any intention to blame them, you have been able to evidence to the bike community this mess from Triumph, thank you Freddie!

[@FreddieDobbs]

I agree. If I weren’t YouTubing, I’d have no back up press bikes to borrow and would’ve lost an entire summer season. I’d have had to cancel trips and honestly… I may well’ve sold the bike.

[@Santi_Mancini]

@@FreddieDobbs the good point mate is that you evidenced this issue from a very polite and respectful approach towards Triumph and I'm sure its owners thank you. Keep the good work!

[@gilmont321]

Honestly, and in my opinion, the BMW motorcycle would be beautiful, practical and agile with a 1200cc engine. With such a big engine it is heavy, despite being a beautiful bike without a doubt. However, the Bonneville is always a Triumph, side by side.

[@mgraham1996]

ANV on the number plate for anniversary too.

[@snailsfrogslegs119]

I wouldn't want to try lane-splitting with that bike... but it is very cool looking.

[@YerGoodBuddyKeith]

I looked through the description and didn't see it, but I'm wanting to know what helmet it is that your wearing? I've been looking for a full face like that with the goggle retention strap. I just lost my clear goggles halloween night. Caught harsh cross wind doing about 80mph and my goggles were too loose. Couldnt get them in my hand fast enough. I've been using my bell full face till i can figure out a goggle retention system. Yours looks like my biltwell gringo but has that loop in the back that i need.

[@simonvanellis2945]

Love it Freddie, keep the content coming. I fancy the R1800

[@BATTLEMAD241]

Freddie I would like to know where you got that jacket from because it looks amazing. Sorry if you have already answered this in a previous comment.

[@littlefishy6316]

First of many fill ups at petrol station......... with great power comes great price

[@cyclepath3280]

What type of camera set up /equipment are you using? Is she shooting freehand

[@yufoh7753]

That engine in that style of bike just makes no sense to me. The whole point of a cruiser style is legs relaxed and stretched out a little more for comfort, yet the cylinder heads poking out of the side make that impossible. It's just laughable imo.

[@Fishing8136]

Love the wall and the bike🇨🇦😎

[@PetoGasparr]

This is a reason why i get A licence :) now a few seasons of moto experience and im going for her :P

[@ravistarzl]

I love the look of the R18. Freddie, I’d love to hear where on the “Horse to Spaceship” scale it falls for you.

[@hagestad]

btw how log till someone gets his hippie scarf entangled in that open drive saft and loses his head?

[@FreddieDobbs]

@ravistarzl this is/was also my original curiosity

[@alexandercmann]

You are just a cool dude! Your videos are great. @Park City, Utah, USA

[@14biscuits]

Possibly a Lamborghini Miura as the Italian car in shell form on the lift, Freddie? This is an amazing bike... utterly ridiculous, but amazing nonetheless!

[@bikeroffthebeatentrack]

Following this R18 tale closely. My HD Dyna has yet another electrical sensor issue and I’m seriously considering the R18 touring version…….

[@mikeshinoda_98]

Godbless the show Godbless the fam And Godbless my man

[@thomasnielsen5516]

Another great video, Freddie! May I ask about your jacket? Would love one for myself!

[@geoffozevans4500]

The fuel light will come on when it starts to get low, very similar to the R9T

[@canalcreations]

i wondered how the r18 compared to driving feel with the indian chief dark shadow?

[@andymushlarky7819]

Generally, I hate this type of bike, however, I'm drooooooooooolllllllllllliiiiiiiiiiinnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggg now! also, the 100-year R9T is a drool inducer. Keep em coming, Freddie.