New 2020 BMW R18: Will This Be It's Downfall?

[@robertgreybeard1432]

When you get older you will find foot forward is hard on the prostate causing much pain.

[@Dorque19]

How old is older? I'm 64 and ride daily. But, I ride with a police seat........best ever and most comfortable.

[@dickjohnson7845]

Never liked forward controls

[@ronecc2]

If you are having pain in your Prostate you need it looking at, not buying a different bike. Not sure how bike riding hurts your Prostate, but how would I know, I have had mine out. Oh and I ride a forward control Harley. Oh, yes and I was 69 when I had it out.

[@Dorque19]

If you don't have the police seat like my FLHTP, look into a custom seat which carves out the center relieving the pressure on your prostate. I understand the issue as a doctor friend of mine experienced this but it was alleviated when he bought a new seat.

[@robertgreybeard1432]

Gregory H Good to know.

[@ogribiker8535]

Having ridden hardtail chops most of my riding life (about 35 years!) the footpegs on the R18 are in EXACTLY the correct place. It's a great looking bike.

[@ozziejim8472]

Ogri biker Well said mate🍻

[@glennrueger8689]

Amen to that!

[@Peter_Pepper_Love]

Mid pegs make for better handling...oh and BMWZ do have after market floor boards on offer👍🏻

[@elrumcajs777]

How high is your butt on a hard tail?

[@NYCZ31]

@emond67 there is another variant of the R18 coming out soon that comes with floorboards stock

[@marilynsims8133]

I've owned 4 Harley,s Forword controls get uncomfortable on a long ride. Mid-mount pegs are the best for handling and comfort . BMW R-18 looks sweet.

[@gabbyhayes1568]

Uncomfortable for you maybe, but not for everyone. Nothing more comfortable than the cruiser riding position, IMHO.

[@АлексейНовиков-у6ф6б]

>Nothing more comfortable than the cruiser riding position, IMHO On a good roads - maybe. But forward contrors is a pain on a bad roads with potholes and cracks, 'cause you cannt get up.

[@gabbyhayes1568]

@@АлексейНовиков-у6ф6б Well, Cruiser bikes are usually ridden on paved highways. For touring on U.S. highways it's the most comfortable IMHO.

[@АлексейНовиков-у6ф6б]

Highways have different surface quality in different countries. US is not the only market for R18. And.... R18 is not an interstate cruiser. Look at the BMW Motorrad site, watch the videos on the BMW Motorrad channel. R18 is not a competitor for Harley, traditional cruiser. The target audience of this motorcycle are hipsters. Hipsters don't ride a motorcycle for 4+ hours on a highways. To get to the nearest McDonald's, all pegs are good )

[@davidmaclane5487]

You need at least two foot peg positions on a long range cruiser, and you need floor boards...not pegs. I rode for 43 years, so might have a clue

[@CaptHollister]

It's more than a question of forward controls. In its current configuration, the R18 places the riders knees much higher than his hips in a sort of froggish crouch. That is a recipe for short-term discomfort. This engine will work only in a bike with a higher seating position. Edit: the Gold Wing doesn't have forward controls, but it also places the riders knees on the same plane as his hips and not higher.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

CaptHollister exacltyyyyyyyyyy

[@Odessa45]

Check out the Bobber Seat option on BMW's website

[@Spad562]

100% first thing I noticed, it will be so uncomfortable

[@warlok9]

I heard they are offering some type of leg rests that mount over the cylinder heads?

[@returntonature8773]

buy a booster seat, it's not uncomfortable if you know how to ride. I suggest practicing on a dirt bike before you jump on a real bike.

[@gaboufleur]

The lack of forward control is absolutly not a problem for me, quite the opposite actually. I am not very tall and mid controls are ideal for me. This R18 is something I have been dreaming about for a long time; a big BMW flat twin , modern , retro looking and low touring machine. Can't wait to try it.

[@Z17xMachine]

I'm in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. A Commonwealth state that doesn't allow filtering or what we call lane splitting. I really don't see the foot position being a problem. That is a gorgeous motorcycle. Look at the custom bobbers like 60's and 70's Triumph's. They are mid controls. Harley Davidson FXR's were mids as well. Unless you have bad knee's, the acute angle of your legs on the R18 is welcome in States with bumpy or rough roads. Like Ohio or Michigan. Really any state with cold winters and hot summers.

[@SJCB27]

As I understand it, there are more states that allow helmetless riding than allow filtering... What a joke. It might be wet and cold in the UK but at least we can get past the tin boxes!

[@toomanymachines]

totally agree. I have many machines, including a harley 48 and a triumph bobber. the ride on the triumph is worlds ahead of the harley.. due in part to the foot position. I need to be able to lift my ass off the seat over frost cracks. minus 35 in the winter, and plus 35 in the summer. our Canadian roads crack a lot, and heave from the frost.

[@kmkallday1899]

I'm also in Pittsburgh

[@jimbobaggans1564]

Me too, and you really have to be on the lookout for big pot holes. I didn't know that we weren't allowed to split lanes. I better quit doing that.

[@davidmaclane5487]

Not the knees that's the problem...it's the hips

[@gdratp]

In my riders group 24+ people bought R18 F.E/Classic as their 2nd bike between July-Aug 2022. We have done 600+ miles in a day from Dallas to Talimena. No body complained about the mid controls and the in-ability to stretch their legs. Some have accessories to keep on top of the pots though.

[@gensicki]

I've recently completed a 2,000 mile trip on my K1600b. I rarely used the forward foot rests. And when I did it was only for a few minutes at a time to stretch my legs. I could've done the same without the foot rests. The center control position really helps to negotiate pot holes and rough roads. As for the R-18, it is a thing of beauty. Love the exposed driveshaft, chrome touches, and retro vibe.

[@waynepatrick547]

G😅per 😅

[@waynepatrick547]

Ti hh🎉🎉🎉v🎉🎉, ìj😢🎉v h b b🎉vhvjhv🎉ho ¾3b🎉🎉jj

[@waynepatrick547]

V

[@jeffcouture]

I used to have an old oil cooled R-bike on which I toured 50k miles all over North America. On long stretches of road I would often stretch out and lay my legs right over the cylinder heads. They really don't get very hot while riding. This was my version of footpegs on that bike and it worked well for me. Obviously there are no controls up there but I don't really understand why forward controls are necessary. We're talking long straight roads where I wasn't shifting gears and certainly not using the rear brake. Still, I doubt many others would accept that as an alternative to forward pegs and controls.

[@jimsizemore1673]

Most of us know one has to stand up when traversing rough surface- Try that with forward controls...

[@guywolff]

Exactly ! I had a Yamaha 1700 Star and with the floor boards I had enough perchass at the back of the board to stand ... On my roads you have to stand or loose some vertebrae

[@Stevebarker66]

It's not just the mid position of the pegs that is the problem - many bikes have mid-position pegs. It's the low seat height and position of the seat in relation to the pegs that will be the problem.

[@camgere]

So posers won't be able to ride the R18, just riders. That IS a problem!

[@babayaga1767]

@Ginger Ginger i ride 16 hour days IBA, don't need footpegs.

[@babayaga1767]

@Ginger Ginger i ride 16 hour days IBA. don't need footpegs. keep your feet under you and take the weight off of the tail bone

[@paulenglish5389]

baba yaga so what you buy a bike and the first thing you do is ripp those pegs off wtf are you on about, my grandad was a speedway rider he had one peg but then he had no gears so I spose that was alright he rode the wall of death as well taught me a lot but damn him I’ve been riding for 40 yrs with pegs I feel stupid theman had no idea obviously

[@easy8077]

Wait, an expensive BMW, now styled as a big black cruiser, is destined to exclusively be ridden by posers 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@mingonmongo1]

You nailed it, it's the 'poser' factor... as defined by Harley. Though a lotta those kinda riders are either dying off or can no longer afford a hog anyway, as witnessed by the glut of used HD's on the market.

[@44hawk28]

A few years ago I rode from Regina Saskatchewan to Detroit Non-Stop and I didn't have a problem with the leg position, when I wanted to rest my legs I put them on the rear pegs. And once in awhile I would put them on the Jug's of the engine. But about 85% of the time they were at the controls. I'm not sure what you're talking about you can't stand to be on it for more than 30 minutes. I was 29 hours on the bike but that included gas stops and stretching my legs at the gas stops about every 200 miles. So that was about 8 to 10 gas stops. Not only that, there are systems that can be put on my 98 R 1200 C that will give me 40 foot position. But not necessarily controls. Every time I see that there may be a situation coming up where I may need the controls. I put my feet where the controls are.

[@mrvoyagerm]

I bought the GL1800 because that was the bike we were supposed to have for two up travelling. It felt like I was riding a milk stool, but it was smooth roomy and powerful. Good protection in bad weather. My next bike was a Harley Ultra and my first impression was Wow! This bike was like a self propelled Lazy Boy by comparison. Not as much power but loads of torque, good storage and with a sixth gear it is as smooth as can be on the highway. Perfect Electronic Cruise, ABS, CB,CD,GPS, AM, FM, Weather and MP3. fabulous intercom, great mileage -Perfect ergonomics feet forward with highway pegs for rider and comfy passenger seating with no buffeting. And this bike is 9 years old now. The first thought I had regarding the BMW was regarding the rearward controls. Good luck trying to sell that to a Harley or Metric cruiser customer.

[@brad6440]

Those pegs are a non-issue for me! I’ll buy this bike as soon as it rolls. I just love the look and I have very little desire to go on long trips that would cause me to be that uncomfortable. I generally ride alone and mostly during commutes. I want a looker and this, is that.

[@gensicki]

You're gonna love this bike.

[@turtlepowersf]

Same with me, sort of. Im flexible enough to be comfortable on mostly anything. Regret buyers means good news for me on the 2nd hand market in a few years. Honestly, this bike is primed for used deals. A bike that will appeal to older, well-off riders but lack the ergonomics they need.

[@elrumcajs777]

I said the same about a Street Bob once. 30 min later I was in pain looking for the forward controls.

[@chadkline4268]

The ergos on BMWs are second to none. For most. Riders in the USA just aren't familiar enough with BMWs. Boxers are still alien to them. You generally do not want all of your weight on your lower back. That's a recipe for back pain.

[@ourunstablemind]

All i can say is r18 is mouthwateringly gorgeous looking.

[@daniluchison]

until u take it for an average 4 hour spin on US highways...

[@TomVestvik]

_Dot Connector Who would do that? It’s all about posing on instagram, and outside the cafe.

[@12joelmn]

Does it actually make your mouth water

[@daniluchison]

Tom Vestvik In the US that’s what we usually do during summer or even decent days in winter. We take the bike for rides for at least two hours, average four. In Europe is different, distances are shorter. Take a ride for two hours in Belgium and u are almost out of the country!

[@benpar8120]

It's UGLY. Then again, it will suit the American market VERY WELL! !

[@carstenschwark3705]

For a tall rider like myself, it would be uncomfortable for long rides. I used to ride adventure bike but for this exact reason I switched bikes just a year ago. At 50 years if age I am getting bad knees and I can not on bikes like that anymore. Today I ride a 1700 Kawasaki Vaquero. I have plenty of room to stretch my legs.

[@LoneWolf-fk2xr]

The biggest problem with this bike is the ride position is too low that it lead to lack of lean angle. Little bit low corner enough to make your pegs scratch. The sad thing is it happen too often even if you ride slow. I'm fine with mid control but it problem when the ride position is low.

[@johngalt7313]

I used to put my boots up on top of the cylinders when touring the SW on my 75/5, partially because it was too damn hot behind the cylinders. A critical characteristic of comfort is the ability to change up position on the fly. Nothing beats an old fashion bench seat. I used the seat foam from an RD350 with the BMW seat pan and it couldn't have worked better. The ability to slide back and forth is such a stark contrast to seats that lock you into one spot.

[@patrickhorvath2684]

I miss my 1969 R75/5. ( was a German domestic model )

[@JonsMotoGarage]

I've never been a fan of the forward controls myself. However, I can see where they would be a nice option for taller riders. I'm curious to see how this new bmw does. As always, killer video!

[@amotorcyclerider3230]

me neither. I test rode the xdiaval and felt uncomfortable.

[@batavusfietsbel]

I have a xdiavel, but planning to covert to the mid control. Just cant get used to the forward controls

[@jimbobaggans1564]

I rode a Triumph America with the forward controls, in Bonaire and I was very uncomfortable. A few days later I rode a Sportster there and it was far better.

[@Wipa4]

I might suppose the R18 will fail. I believe BMW should have maintain the production of r 850/1200cc and further improvement of that chassis instead of making bike from a new

[@oscarzavala5183]

Can't wait for Jon's review. See if you can wheelie this bad boy LoL 😂

[@peterrosendahl1019]

I am German, I owned 2 BMW Boxer bikes, my knees are not the best. I loved BMW! But there is no aktualisiert BMW bike I can ride. The Räson is the knee angel.

[@speedfre]

As a Harley owner I do thing the R18 will do well as the market is changing and younger riders are looking for something other than what is currently out. Harley stopped production of the Dynas which did make up a big chunk of that market with the 20 - 30 year olds. A retro bike could be some healthy competition needed to drive the market in a new direction. Harley and Indian could acually benefit in the long run from this competition. I mean to look at how misplace the market it look at the livewire. While it is future thinking, its riding position is more like a sportster which younger people do ride and buy but also because of cost. The Live wire at 30,000 is priced right out of their hands. So the R18 could be the right fit in that area for that buyer.

[@cadeere74]

DiavelX has forward controls. Kind of a large oversight not mentioning that one

[@amotorcyclerider3230]

Yes. I thought about it too.

[@cpuuk]

Not just foot-peg position (forward controls), look at the guy riding it, his shins\ knees are well awkward to avoid the heads.

[@ronecc2]

Nice hot ankles in the summer.

[@Spad562]

@@ronecc2 not to mention busted shins in the event of and off...

[@motocicletalibre6785]

Nice roasted nuts on the HD. Pick your poison.

[@jonlee3081]

That beemer looks the way all BMWs looked in the 1940s and earlier (and all other bikes for that matter) very beautiful. Hope they make one with a smaller motor, a 900 would be nice.

[@johnwalsh9059]

I made the mistake of buying a R18 Classic. In my 37 years of riding a variety of motorcycles, this is by far my least favorite. The only thing this bike does right is look good. It vibrates so much that after only 30 minutes of riding my right foot & hand go numb. I literally have to stop & get of the bike to regain feeling so I can continue riding. Definitely unpleasant and unsafe! The windscreen is perfectly designed to blow wind & rain in your face. The foot position is awkward & annoying. Finally, the Classic is advertised with floorboards, but came though without them. They issue a $500 credit, however they cost $1200 from the parts dept. That's just for the rider's boards! Passenger floorboards are extra? I contacted BMW Customer Service Dept. in the US and was assured a call back by a certain date. I never heard back. I have left voicemails with the person I initially spoke with which have gone unreturned. I tell you all this to make you aware of these issues so you do not make the same mistake I did. If you really are infatuated with this bike's looks like I was, take it for an extended test ride bfore making your decision to buy. If BMW is trying to make inroads to the US market, they missed the boat!

[@GiancarloEspositoItaliGC]

Bruh i just took off the forward highway pegs and rest my legs on the cylinder heads nice position and warm. (oil cooled gs)

[@CaptHollister]

The seat on a GS is much higher than on the R18. I've owned an airhead GS, it was very comfortable with the centrally mounted pegs because it was tall. I currently own a Moto-Guzzi California 1400: the low seat height is comfortable only because it has forward controls. A bike that places the knees on a higher plane than the hips, in the way the R18 does, is quickly going to feel cramped and uncomfortable.

[@Motorcycle.journeysYT]

i do the same on my gs on those long highway hauls!!

[@Cybervogi]

This puppy looks só good í will put my feet wherever.. for half an hour

[@uscscjohnson]

The bad news for you is that the "half hour" could take you through a test ride and into the sales managers office.

[@ehsrock]

Totally agree. Haha. But we can drive more than 30 minutes. Haha

[@Jonathan_Doe_]

It’s like when a hot chick tells you her favourite position is doggy style with one of your feet on their head. Sure, it’s an uncomfortable stretch, and you’ll ache the day after, but you do it for them.

[@strahinjaboskovic305]

@@ehsrock he meant like stretch it for 30min...probably on engine :)

[@viliamvacula8111]

It’s the “sitting on a toilet” riding position. Not saying that’s bad, I spent a lot time in my life sitting on a toilet.

[@Maart3nSl3g3rs]

Lol

[@pexobestia]

Rode a MZ 251 for years, not a bad riding position, you just need to get used

[@lagancider6153]

Rather than aiming for the "cruiser" market I think BMW should aim for the Triumph T120 segment, building a homage to the gorgeous 1960's boxer roadsters.....proper seat height etc

[@hughsnyder891]

At 6’2” I’m one of those riders that though I like the bike unfortunately I wouldn’t be comfortable on it for more then a short time.

[@psychologicaltirefire8190]

BMW does make a forward foot peg over the cylinders.

[@motornade277]

Lost almost my left leg in a accident with forward controls. If i decide to go ride again i'll choose r18, the cylinders are a nice protection on a beautiful bike.

[@thatf_inguy8220]

For most people (including, and especially the US), bikes are a luxury. People buy based on emotion. If a buyer wants the R18, they will buy the R18. If they want a HD, they will buy a HD. I dont think the foot position is going to be the deciding factor.

[@EdgeTechGamingInc]

I rode this 300 miles recently, rode like a charm

[@ccgg3913]

Just had my test ride, I was worried about these large cylinders but boy have they delivered a SUPERB experience, I totally love it, Bravo BMW

[@dickjohnson4268]

AIRHEADS FOREVER!! R-80-RT, 176,000 miles. Same clutch. One set of rings and gaskets. One output shaft bearing. Gas and oil plus filters. No $300 rear tires.

[@paulharrison8155]

"The Ducati Diavel offers mid pegs and that's it" So what about the X-Diavel ?

[@your_royal_highness]

I think the Diavel is so ugly it’s beautiful.

[@blairbrown4812]

I tend to see the XDiavel as the motorcycle analog of the Lexus LC500--a bike so future-proof, so forward thinking, that it'll still be ridden in a 24th century, when everyone else will be riding electric motorcycles and travel pods.

[@GeorgeFafa]

The forward control muppets, only want harley's forward muppet control. Because they are muppets.

[@Paddy.C]

There is no apostrophe in 'its' when it's used as a possessive rather than a contraction. Will that be this video's downfall?

[@twinphill900]

It’s not always about comfort or being practical. How many young riders do you see commuting on Litre plus SuperBikes or Baggers at a cafe. Some times it’s about the feeling or connection you have with that type of bike and that’s cool too.

[@gabbyhayes1568]

That's true. There's nothing more uncomfortable than a sportbike, yet guys still ride them.

[@viperrc535]

I own a transcontinental, go across the country, totally comfortable

[@michaelhudson7861]

Two different types of MC. Cruiser vs. tourer. The comparison between the R18 and the GL18 is invalid.

[@tomgarney7700]

As a shorter rider I like mid pegs and a low seat height. The forward mount controls of the Harley are actually a negative for me and keep me from buying one of the new softails. It seems that every bike I look at has a seat height of 31- 35 inches, that's just a deal killer for me. I cant even touch the ground. If BMW focuses on building shorter riders a big bike they will have a niche market that will be very happy to buy and ride this bike. I wouldn't focus on the "cruiser" aspect of the bike. I would make this a low, powerful, roadster, with plenty of accessories for customization for each owners preference. It needs an effective windshield, different saddles, and various bag designs. And keep the damn price down!

[@240fxst]

The pegs are placed similarly on my GS Adventure. I drive hours and miles on end only to stop for personal duties. I see no problem here unless your gut is so fat that you need to rest it on the tank with your knees supporting the sides of the bottom of your belly utilizing forward controls.

[@crouchingwombathiddenquoll5641]

I think you have identified the American problem 😁

[@Me-yh4uc]

240fxst but your seat height is taller

[@motocicletalibre6785]

The BMW is beautiful. I have a 2003 Wide Glide w/forward controls and an R1150GS. Have to say that on long rides on the HD I have to flip out the passenger pegs, for my feet, to give my back some relief. On my BMW I have flip out pegs on the heads that I use for short periods for leg circulation sake. No back issues and I have about 3 to 4 hours before numbutt. On the HD I have maybe two, before I have to stop, stand, stretch and enjoy the scenery. The video starts with a premise that is closes with, waste of time watching. Ride on Beemer.

[@PacAnimal]

I'm 6' with a 36" inseam. Yeah, I have stupid long legs. This looks like highway cramps waiting to happen. The Goldwing is taller, I think, so the pegs are further down.

[@carstenschwark3705]

Am your size and was shopping for a new bike just over a year ago. Gold Wing is a pain to with no leg or knee room. I ended up purchasing a 1700 Kawasaki Vaquero. Live the bike and plenty of room to stretch.

[@rossbrumby1957]

Bought a Suzuki Boulevard M109r just over a year ago- so comfortable and I've never owned anything so quick! ( never been into sport bikes)

[@Spad562]

Yep first thing I thought, cramped. When your knee sits higher than your hip, that's just going to cause discomfort and pretty quickly too.

[@tomsnider7611]

I am the same height and inseam. No issues on this bike. It is one of the few that fit me. It is a BIG bike.

[@pggp273]

The problem with this motorcycle is that it's a ridiculous contraption that is so hideous it should have never gone into production. It's a total waste of money and every single one of them deserves to go into the scrap crusher.

[@mikelyon5595]

My FXDLI highway pegs feel awkward, the mid controls work perfectly for me!

[@Yoda8945]

BMW had a cruiser - the 1200C. That bike suffered from a couple of things. It was ugly, but the main thing they got wrong was the power. They seemed to think that 68 HP was a magic number for a cruiser. (Hey, it works for Harley) As a cruiser, it had the most uncomfortable seat ever designed. It was like riding on a piece of tailpipe with no padding. The problem with the R18 is that it doesn't have decent clearance, and that alone would stop me from buying it. I did have an R NineT until it got killed by a VW Bug making a left turn into me.

[@drhml2010]

Finally , a bike that suits the shorter of us ?

[@jimbobaggans1564]

I'm from the states and I never liked forward controls on any bike. I have footboards on my fat boy and they are not forward. I have rode bikes with forward controls and they are uncomfortable as hell. After a few miles my tail bone hurts. So the R-18 looks just about right to me. It looks great too! I don't feel like I have as much control when my legs are so far forward.

[@jacquesduplessis6175]

The Americans can rest their legs on the cylinder head, the rest of the R18 riders will looks like the bees knees riding that machine. Best looking cruiser ever I’d say.

[@Sunbear415]

Brilliant solution!!!! Brilliant!!!!

[@roadrash76]

As long as the heads don't generate alot of heat then yes. I rest my legs on the heads of my 2018 R1200GS which is liquid cooled.

[@Heavywall70]

I can feel the hear of the cylinders of my r1100s through my jeans and it’s an oilhead, this beast motor will double as a shintoaster I’m certain.

[@sssxxxttt]

​@@Heavywall70 area for heat radiation is larger and the power used is probably lower than on Your r1100s (I've also got one, love it)

[@jimbobaggans1564]

If you want to see something funny, come to the U.S. and check out the Harley riders with ape hangers and forward controls. It looks so funny!

[@didierlevy4268]

The R18 is quite a nice bike imo but the lack of fwd controls is an issue as you said. Even on mythe Sportster, I had to rest my legs on the passenger pegs on long trips... Now, on my Softail it's much more comfortable and you can easily lift your butt to avoid bumps even with fwd controls. Ride safe 😉

[@Bduh2]

We motor cyclers are quite resourceful and we'll find a way to stretch our legs even if it means putting a thick heat shield over the cylinders or so.

[@lynxstarautomotive208]

There is an accessory that allows you to rest your feet over the cylinder head. Try out the configurator.

[@_audacerider3838]

I own a Moto Guzzi Audace 1400 with a very similar footrests placement to the R18 and there is no problem with riding long distance !! It's better for cornering because you have more ground clearance! My Audace will embarrassed any HD model in the corners!! On the comfort side riding my motorcycle for hours on end its not an issue!! One can relief it's back mussels when riding by supporting the upper body with your legs. So as long as BMW will get the rider's triangle right(thay haven't made an uncomfortable bike yet) the R18 will be a very comfortable and popular motorcycle!!

[@timothycoyne5874]

This looks more like an “urban bomber” than a cruiser. Like the Yamaha Bolt and Triumph Bobber. I doubt many Harley riders will even consider one of these new BMWs. Great looking bike though!

[@TM-hm8ep]

@Timothy Coyne Yes! Thats a "catwalk bobber" to ride around town. Got to work in style etc. For long rides I think 1h/2h max.

[@svenschildhauer9139]

I owned a Dyna and a V-Rod. Now I ride a R1200 GSA and I am so happy. Reasons: 1.) I live in South East Asia and ride my bike the whole year, every day, and do touring around the whole region. With my Harleys I did not have ONE single week without a problem I needed to attend to. The BMW just needs regular servicing. That's all. 2.) Forward controls look cool and give you comfort for the short ride around the church tower. But on long rides the wind pushed my legs away from the bike bcs of the forward position of the legs. On a long run I want to stand up to relax my lower backside a bit. Not possible to do that in a safe manner with forward controls. 3.) The roads here can be a bit rough from time to time. Especially in Thailand. Then It helps to stand up to prevent the spine from getting compressed when hitting bumps and potholes. This is not exactly possible with forward controls. Personally, I am looking forward to the release of the R18. Gorgeous looking (hopefully reliable) bike.

[@traviswrigg5158]

It doesn't necessarily need forward controls, but that low seat, plus where the foot controls are just makes my hip flexors scream out in pain. Signed, An American

[@brynybach7741]

As soon as this is available for order, I'm getting one, and only because it has normal peg position. Love it just as it is.

[@12masterr]

Nice bike! I'll wait to one of my friends buy one,so I can ride it half a hour,that is probably the most I can ride it, and I'll be done with it!.this is another of that bikes that will look gorgeous in my garage but is a pain to ride.

[@cetdac3]

Each to their own. I like forward controls on my Heritage but recently bought a Sporty with forward controls and high bars...swapped out to mid controls and lower bars and it feels much better. Love this Beemer and mid controls arent an issue for me or most people of different heights...just stop or stand if ur backside is causing an issue...

[@jimkubitza3820]

With that low seat, those pegs are going to mean riding like a monkey trying to hump a football. I think they would be farther ahead ditching the whole cruiser concept and going for an entirely different thing ... like a powerful "retro" BMW thing.

[@pggp273]

The problem with this ridiculous piece of junk is that it's a ridiculous contraption that is fit for the scrap yard.

[@Darthreloy]

BMW finally is going for that polished iron, clean and beautiful look. All I can focus on though is that knees up and squatted position. Prediction of pain and discomfort.

[@tripacer8259]

The forward controls are why I went with the Yamaha Star Venture. Most comfortable with the best warranty.

[@supernovatv4729]

R18 looks good on a wall poster

[@nazrighazali]

Personally I am okay with middle foot pegs, really not into the front control. In any case R18 is not my kind of bike. BMW should do a market survey to gauge the US consumer‘s opinion.

[@vegasgeorge]

Hum ....Eeny, meeny, miny, moe ...... guess I'll just stick with the Harley after all.

[@la_old_salt2241]

I have a 25 inch inseam, this works perfectly for me.

[@richardpearson4248]

I would have the rocket 3 over the BMW 🇬🇧👍

[@rickducharme7429]

I have no idea how much fun that Rocket would be to ride in many situations - it's so big and wide and heavy. But it looks superbad, and out on the open road it must be able to rip your arms off if you're not careful with the loud handle. It's my favourite bike to look at bc it's so expressive of naked power. I probably wouldn't have it as an only bike, but I'd have it all day long over the BMW or the Diavel.

[@Woodbug-b7t]

But Richard...the BMW goes around 2nd gear corners on the correct side of the road.

[@jimbobaggans1564]

I never rode the Rocket 3 but I have rode the V-max. It's scary fast too.

[@ronecc2]

Rocket 3 is nice, but at 25mpg I'll give it a miss, I could have a 5ltr Mustang that would do that. Pathetic that a relatively lightweight motorcycle cannot do better than that. My grandsons 4.3 ltr AMG Merc does better and it is upgraded, so god knows how many horses it has got.

[@beemer1111]

I am 66. I bought my first bike, a Honda 90 at age 13, my first Triumph T120 at 17, my first Harley at 19. I have a BMW R1200GS and a Harley FLHTCUSE now. Both of my current bikes have a forward peg option. I could not do long rides without them. This new BMW is amazing and for younger riders will be fine. Shorter rides for guys like me, also no problem. My GS has a very slick custom forward peg system made by a very innovative specialty company based in California. Sooner or later someone will come up with an idea for this new amazing bike. Until they do, enjoy within your comfort limitations, and have another touring model for long trips if that is your thing. This bike is amazing.

[@tejinderpalsingh6048]

There is another problem: Name of the Bike R18 , that’s an adult website in Japan

[@Knotdead73]

The Germans are F* with the Japanese ;)

[@altergreenhorn]

Not as bad as Ford SUV in Europe named Kuga which in some Euro languages mean literally the plague.

[@diemman70]

Didn’t even know.

[@fredwinegar3926]

Forward controls don't work for short riders like me.

[@mickeypopa]

So you're saying that unlike Japan, in Germany you can't put your feet up and enjoy R18?

[@marcr660907]

I don’t think it will challenge the HD or Indian touring bikes, the K Series B and America haven’t really impacted the US either. It will be interesting to see the different production versions, but I believe it will appeal to the similar buyers who bought the NineT.

[@Bricklinsv1970]

Yep got to stretch the legs. Cruisers are all about comfort. BMW blew it. Nice bike regardless!

[@alaskadudeman5041]

As a former owner of a BMW R1150R, I personally prefer a sport riding stance with my feet tucked slightly back. It actually helps to take pressure off my butt for long rides as I can use my legs to support me and makes me way more agile to deal with actual riding. If you are in what I call the "lounge chair" position, you simply cannot react fast enough to deal with road conditions and you can't tuck down when getting wind blasted. At the end of a ride, I feel like I got some leg exercise whereas in the Harley position you just get a sore butt and tired hands from having to hang on. But that's just me.

[@guyerj]

Thank God we won't have to look at these lumps on Eurpean roads.

[@pistolpete6321]

If used as an around town bike it will be fine, if they are targeting long distance Harley riders then peg placement on this BMW is a fatal flaw.

[@Marcusotis]

Said “angusmccoatup” 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@LadybugAdventures]

Being from North America, I definitely don't see the Harley base moving away from those forward controls. Maybe if there was some way to adapt foot pegs for longer rides that might help. It does look pretty cramped if you're intending to use this for longer cruises. In the city this looks fine.

[@mnnic4292]

Akward bikes indeed They tend to be so "disfunctional", that BMW's proposal should out perform the competition.

[@blueberry2846]

Awkward indeed ....BMW rules the nothing as per usual

[@DrTranofEvil]

I bought a GS800 and ran it 1500 miles last week from Florida to Oklahoma. Standing up on the pegs helps a bit, but it killed my ass. I ran 2400 miles in a week on my CB1100 (5 days, day three I wasn’t on the bike). I used to run my Vulcan (EN500) around all over, STILL stood up on the pegs when my knees were complaining. I can get where a certain segment of the market might just endure the position (or have their own tricks for doing distance), but I can admit that having highway pegs would be pretty sweet (although it doesn’t solve a sore rear). So, long story short... none of my bikes have forward controls. I don’t consider it an issue and I run distance.

[@servicarrider]

BMW = never ending, constant, expensive repair bills.

[@seldomseensavage3459]

aka Bring Money & Wait

[@brucesantacory1390]

i worked for and rode Harley for decades, i now ride and LOVE my new bike the Honda F6c Valkyrie and it's flat 6 also makes forward controls impossible, and I LOVE IT !! After 54 years of riding i was thinking about retiring from riding, till i found my stripped goldwing

[@northerniltree]

Ahh, the R18. Think of it this way: when you're riding a gorgeous woman who happens to have massive jugs, are you really so worried as to where you'll put your feet? I'm not one to turn down such a woman, as I've always considered my feet to be somewhat beneath me.

[@herbwag6456]

I've had air cooled BMW boxer twins. The cylinders sticking out like that did make a cramped rider position. Not a fan. But the R18 is a styling masterpiece.

[@tonebonetones]

Frankly, the boxer engine had its day years ago.....BMW know the only way to push it is as a 'retro' bike.....and they're not kidding lol. Even the GS adventure bikes are big, unwieldy lumps that reviewers who should know better, praise regardless. The riding position on this R18 looks simply awful, although the machine itself is beautiful. Triumph nailed it with that Rocket 3 GT. Modern, handsome, powerful, comfortable.

[@uscscjohnson]

"the GS adventure bikes are big, unwieldy lumps that reviewers who should know better, praise regardless" aka "allow me to write something really ridiculous and see how much credibility you attach to my other opinions."

[@splodge57]

tonebonetones 👍👍👍

[@gregorygatserelia651]

tonebonetones BMW sales are rising and rising and American bikes are falling and falling ! BMW have not only boxer engines but remarkable 4 cylinders and 6 !

[@tonebonetones]

@@uscscjohnson 4 thumbs up to your 0, Steve. That's how much 😉

[@onfin3al6]

My Yamaha V-STAR 1100 was perfect . I moved the bars back about 2 inches and that was it . With floor boards front and rear . A smooth V-twin , short saddle height . I can't see the beemer doing much in the US . It's ergonomics seem out of whack .

[@RegNatarajan]

*its downfall. No apostrophe in possessive pronouns.

[@ferrumequus88]

As I Harley rider with 40+ years experience, the forward controls were never an issue. Looking at the BMW R18, I wished BMW would have build bikes like that 40 years ago. Rather late then never. I have a R18 on order...

[@jowyong6769]

Agreed. The lack of forward controls is the deal breaker for me. I don't live in America but do have a preference for the cruiser format of motorcycling. Thus, forward controls are a must for me.

[@ewganhoff]

The problem is not simply mid controls, but mid controls mixed with an extremely low seat height. The successful bikes with mids that you mensioned, like the Goldwing, don't have crazy low seats.

[@superdanu]

The best example which you have omitted in this video is the XDiavel, which has adjustable forward foot pegs

[@santiagomariaalexe9463]

I hate forward controls. I have stayed away from cruisers just for this reason. R18 was a surprise and I really liked the upright sitting position. Was very comfortable.

[@murfrirhke4557]

Ok, here’s my take as a BMW & HD rider. I once had a 2004 BMW R1200C Montauk & loved everything except the low HP. I now have the BMW K1600B & absolutely love it so far. That being said, I agree the placement of the pegs is going to be a problem in the US market. My CVO Ultra had mid controls & highway pegs which was great for choice while motoring down the highway. The BMW K1600B addresses this by adding the boards over the engine guards...perfect. The big 1800 R bike leaves only the jugs to rest ones calves (with addition of bracket once offered by BMW). Personally, I like the bike & may purchase if they indeed are released. Can’t be any worse than highway pegs on an old GW that put you a birthing table position...ask those faithful Valkyrie riders.

[@sandeepsaxena8266]

Very good and important point raised, I don't think BMW can do anything about it!

[@michaelhayward7572]

Will be a huge success worldwide. Not every "cruiser" needs fwds. In fact, actually riding fast, ie above 80mph, fwds are a pain. In the arse.

[@123456bpb]

Forward controls? Not an issue for me. Have been riding for 50 years. Tried using forward controls once, could not tolerate the lose of control and awkward feeling with my feet forward. Have many high end bikes, Italian, Japanese and two BMW Boxers. Will be purchasing an R18. Would remove forward controls if included. If forward controls were the only option, I would not purchase or even test drive. Get a better grip. Put your feet where your weight transfer better enables you to control the bike.

[@tonyzee9931]

Many Harley riders have modified their bikes from forward controls to mid-controls for more control and sportier riding. The nice option BMW gives the rider of the R18 is that the foot pegs can be swapped out for floor boards (smaller in size to a full size floor board). The BMW R18 customer is looking for a classic cruiser with a BMW flare, so I am sure there will be quite a few sold in the States. Also given the amount of motorcycle customizers in the US, there will definitely be some creative solutions coming in the near future. This can only serve to push BMW's product and potentially be a good study as to what will sell in the USA and make adjustments accordingly to better meet consumer demands.

[@Woodbug-b7t]

I had an R90S in the mid 70's...with no heated hand grips or seats, in winter my lower legs were warm when all else froze...summer was the reverse though!

[@bluevalkyrie2517]

117 torque engine should only need a 3 speed trans. I usually sift 1-3-5 on my '14 Valkyrie.

[@davidravo6247]

Shhhhhh, don’t tell anybody, it’s a fundamental flaw. But there is a genre here in the old US, it’s call bar brawler Not an interstate cruiser.