The Truth about this motorcycle... BMW R18 B Review

[@HerTwoWheels]

Do you use your passenger pegs to rest your feet?

[@vintagetrk]

Only on my sport bike did I ever do that. I love my 2019 Harley Street Glide that I've pretty much converted to an Ultra Classic with upgrades. First thing I did to my Street Glide when I got it home was Delete the Heel Toe Shifter. I absolutely cant stand heel toe shifters. I dig the display but if it aint touch screen I dont want it. Been considering going from the Street Glide to a BMW 1600 touring bike. But it they dont have a touch screen display on their premier touring bike I'm not sure I wanna go that direction.

[@hitituprohb]

I'll sit on the pillion and/or stand on the passenger pegs on my FXBBS. The rider pegs are so far forward, with the bend of the bars if I stand my hips are on my grips.

[@mikek1187]

On occasion, I'll stand up straight on my floorboards while riding. Otherwise, I don't mind the neutral riding position. I have the TC and like having the big rear box to put my helmet and gear whenever I stop somewhere. My only complaint is I wish BMW made the box bigger, as it only fits MY helmet and not my wife's at the same time.

[@adambatko4773]

100% use the rear pegs on longer rides to keep the old hips fresh.

[@Donfleebie1]

I absolutely couldn’t get my feet, or legs anywhere comfortable on the R18 Transcontinental. I wanted to love the bike because it’s beautiful, and fit and finish are top notch. Horrible foot controls, no room for my feet, and after 10 miles, I had to rest my legs on the jugs to finish the ride. I know they have the highway pegs, and the rails to lay your legs on, and this bike needs those big time. And it’s one heavy SOB, and a beast to get off the sidestand.

[@kelvinknaff9903]

I must say you are doing your best to sell this motorcycle, outstanding!

[@boxofmoles4057]

As a very happy R18 Classic owner, I'll offer a comment. Because the bagger version likely has the same issue. There are wind buffeting issues, but it's easily solvable. Many will believe changing out the windscreen for a taller one will be the answer. Screen size has no discernable improvement, because the buffeting is coming from below. I tried many windscreens to no avail. My solution was adding fork deflectors (XV1900 Roadliner x 1) from Memphis Shades. Amazing what a $100 add-on can accomplish. 👌👍🤙

[@travisc231]

I had a similar issue going on with my 2012 triumph rocket 3. The body of tank and frame components funnelled the wind upward

[@dontworrybehappy8080]

@@travisc231 I like some wind hitting me. Cools me down and feels good.

[@rustymcycle]

quick comment. You are concise, sound authentic / real, speak the lingo which makes you authentic. I enjoyed your review. good job, r

[@BuccaneerOverland]

Excellent review. As a HD and BMW rider it’s nice to see someone who can appreciate both brands just like I do. Greetings from Florida.

[@HerTwoWheels]

Likewise!!!

[@Firestorm637]

Most non motorcycle people think most bikes, naked bikes, are Harley’s. If it Red its a Ducati. When you see a R18 you must take several other close looks as the engine is so unique. Probably the best looking engine as you can see all of it. Plus no wires or other things distracting the show case motor. That drive shaft is icing on the cake. I love this bike, the K1600 Bagger, and Honda Goldwing. The Honda looks futuristic and very unique. The K1600 is a Ferrari of an engine and even sounds like one. The R18 though so unique engine. You do not see these on every corner like a Honda or Harley. I love unique stuff.

[@dontworrybehappy8080]

I had a shaft drive on a Honda Sabre back around 1990. It definitely felt different. I didn't like it at the time but I'm willing to give it another try.

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks for the look at this bike.

[@michaeljag7854]

I think you just forgot to mention the better quality you get for the buck… thx for the video… cheers from Berlin 🦦🍷👋

[@LimitedGunnerGM]

8:46 the little I’ve see the bike in person, I would describe the vibration is “Visceral”. You can feel it in your soul!

[@johnnys5419]

Great personal rewiew of the bike, Jess👍 Thank you. You are great🤩

[@memeridesaharley1674]

Jess, I'm looking forward to meeting you in person at Forgotten Angels campout next week

[@Yuomione]

Fair review on the bike, they look excellent! However, for those that don't like the touring versions but still want capability you can get (like I did) the base model, which depending on incentives and local offers, can be had for $14-18k and throw on a touring seat, Memphis Shades handlebar screens, and/or wind deflectors with the 48-55mm fork clamps (without the fork covers) with your choice of saddlebags. That will get you about 90% of the way to what the bagger is like and you won't have a massive infotainment system hanging off your front end!

[@rogerfarley3300]

Hey Jess! I live down the road in Cincinnati. My buddy had a BMW K1600 and the biggest complaint from him was the lack of dealer support. Columbus has a great dealer up there (which is where he bought his), but that is a 1.5 hour drive. The number of dealers is just too low compared to 3 Harley dealerships down here. He went from a Harley to the K1600 and ultimately traded the BMW for a 2019 Honda Goldwing, which he loves. We have two Honda dealerships down here. Just wanted to point out that dealership support should be a key factor for those considering any bike brand.

[@pastorjohnculbertson661]

I pulled my 2000 Honda Goldwing out of mothballs and put it in the shop after being in storage since 2011. I love my great big road sofa, my couch on wheels. So I agree with bigger bikes. And it's cheaper to do a rebuild/ restoration versus a new motorcycle.

[@JordanRay]

I rode this bike on a day trip for a few hundred miles. Not gonna lie, I really enjoyed it. The vibrations and throttle differences from the shaft drive took a minute to adjust to but no negatives. Cool bike.

[@vintagetrk]

I wish Jordan would do more long range rides with jess.

[@JordanRay]

@@vintagetrk me too!

[@vintagetrk]

@@JordanRay I love seeing you on Jess's videos. It's so much fun to see y'all riding together.

[@HerTwoWheels]

You didn’t realize how nice it was until you rode the same roads on the Dyna… 😂😂😂

[@vintagetrk]

@@HerTwoWheels Man I'm thinkin Apa would have been way better with like Legends or Ohlins suspension. Isn't Apa already a Stage two Milwaukee 8?

[@bigjames6719]

Thanks for sharing ride safe out there

[@JustFiddlinAround09]

Ive got an identical Bagger and it is without a doubt, one of the finest bikes I've ever had.

[@cg1288]

I had the R-18 Classic. Really enjoyed it, I must say. The engine is an absolute gem. Loads of character and the mapping is excellent. Deceptively fast as well, as it is barely breaking a sweat at 80mph. The only reason I don't have it any longer was the small fuel tank and lack of a fuel-gauge. Though not a complete comparison to the R-18B, I will say both bikes are fantastic for short riders such as myself. Oh, and the reverse gear...absolutely awesome. I can not tell ya how great that was to have.

[@nicholasrooksby3327]

Great reviews are in! Jess!

[@maguslascivious4980]

"1802cc boxer engine that produces an awe-inspiring 91 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque" Is that a quote from the press release lol.

[@waltertodd4281]

Very nice review on the Beemer!

[@dbobbitt12]

Awesome review!! The Transcontinental has been my daily for awhile and absolutely love it. After some practice, navigating the menu purely becomes muscle memory. The adaptive cruise works flawlessly. Like you, I've had more positive comments on this bike then all past bikes combined. Not perfect by any means but what a joy to ride and that's what it is all about, no matter what bike you choose to ride.

[@NRALifeMbr]

I did the demo ride down at Texas Motor Speedway when you were there. Gotta admit, I'm not a fan. I rode the Classic with no Fairing. I thought it was rough in that the motor wasn't smooth. I thought the suspension was harsh and directed a lot of impact into my spine. My impression of the motor was it wasnt as torquey as they would have you believe. I am willing to try again with the bagger model to see if that improves my impression. I am NOT against BMW at all. My son has 2 and a GS Adventure is in my future. I guess i need a longer term test to be sold on it.

[@donpet8258]

Your so accurate! Good description! This aint no GS perfection build.. but when you’re trying to copy a street glide with an oversize boxer motor, this is probably the best bmw could do

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

The Classic is a lot lower to the ground, it has a different frame. I've sat on them all and the Bagger versions are way taller than the classic versions. I wish they would use the same bagger frame geometry for the classic version to make a Road King version of the bike.

[@ФедорГлебов-ч2ф]

Engines on r18b and tc are way smoother

[@jimmitchell8702]

Bought a 2023 18B after trading in a Ducati Multistrada realizing my touring days were over. Nope. Love this bike. Owned two Roadglides cross country; but fell in love with this Beemer after test riding at Americade. It’s a blast for both cruising and weekend touring. Worth every penny for what you get. Great review as well!

[@robertmay1760]

Great Review!!! I felt it to be very genuine. Would love to see you review a few more bikes as you have access. I have got to say that all these videos make me miss and want to move back to Central FL. I loved everything about the area but the call of the Boat-Tailed Grackle birds. They are obnoxious and I am impressed that the camera kind of filtered them out at the end. I filmed a wedding at Lake Monroe for some friends with a VHS camcorder back in 2000. Sadly the camera didn't pick up the vows but it got every gurgle chirp and buzz of the Grackles. LOL!!!

[@johnmrsich6144]

Very nice review. I got a Road Glide which I've been very happy with but I'm always looking at this bike is a looker... I think I better throw a leg over one first and take it for a spin before I pull the trigger. Thank you for your detailed review ❤️

[@rschris]

I have been pricing baggers and you are right. The starting price for this motorcycle compared to anything from HD , isn’t even in the same ballpark. You get so much more for your money it’s not even funny and everyone I know that has purchased a new HD always always, says they are or about change out the stock suspension weather it be the front forks or the rear shocks. And this is on a brand new motorcycle you haven’t made one payment on yet.I was really hoping HD 120th they were going to finally address these issues. Glade I didn’t hold my breath…. Awesome video Jess !!! Keep them coming!

[@360chris88]

Thanks for the video jess

[@obriendavid93]

Very comprehensive, real world review!

[@jessboysen1976]

Excellent review - very thorough. Really appreciate the comparison to the Harley and the pros and cons.

[@RogerBuffington]

Very excellent review. I really felt like I understood the pros and cons of the bike after this review. Nice work. Amazing that it has a reverse gear.

[@cisa1622]

Having ridden a few BMW motorcycles I can say it’s such easy to ride and comfortable built. Having seen and felt the R18 in a showroom the fit and finish is brilliant too.

[@jamesgibson7508]

I appreciate your review of this bike. I have the R18B and love it. I use a android and find the info screen flawless. I can buzz thought the options without even looking at it.. but it took time... The vibrations are not noticable in Roll mode and milage is about 5 mph higher.. I find people ride this bike aggressive based on how it handles without even knowing it. I hate KZbinrs that give their "expert" options after a 20 minute test ride.

[@onelineshirtcompany9754]

Going to have to test drive it, love to have a twin again to add to the garage with my wing. Always enjoy your videos

[@docelliot66]

Good honest review Jess - gives a good insight into the bike - I’ve been sussing out the ads for it here in Oz - now I know a lot more - Cheers

[@tennwingman3350]

Speaking of adaptive cruise control, I just rented a car that had it. After the first day I turned it off. Very annoying. Thanks for the video, be safe, have fun.

[@HerTwoWheels]

Oh no!

[@brucegerken1063]

Great video thank you very well done. I love my k1300gt. Thanks again cheers to ya.

[@edwardmerkl7138]

In canada the harley street glides start around $40000. Most street glides at dealers are around $45000

[@davidruggles996]

Great review Jess! I'd love to see you ride and review one of the new Goldwings. 😉👍

[@ozzstars_cars]

Thanks for the review!

[@Yankeeman1954]

Good video. Agree with your remarks. I also own Harley touring bikes, but prefer my Transcontinental. The low center of gravity makes it handle better than my Ultra. Agree on the leg rests. Only useful on the highway. Adaptive cruise is a great option as is reverse. Fit and finish are simply better than HD. They need to add an adjustable windshield, put heating controls on the bars and make the bags detachable. TC comes with CVO like accessories for $10-15K less. Marshall Stereo is super. No embedded GPS on the Beemer. You have to blue tooth to your phone, which can be a pain. BMW dealer network is small if you have any issues.

[@ramniksingh7702]

Great review i loved it. I have heard one issue with this bike that is limited foot room due to outward cylinder heads eating up the space for it ? should it be a deal breaker or is it just a hype ??

[@moultriet.3262]

Great review. Thank you

[@markbostic4706]

Loved the review, seriously considering this bike.

[@nicholasbradley4465]

Awesome video. Keep them coming!

[@markchristianson8178]

Beautiful bike nice and honest from your review . That guy was a little creepy next to you in the white ford truck loool . Keep them coming !

[@HerTwoWheels]

Thanks, will do!

[@tarynsanmartino8930]

Thanks for this review. I love the style of this cruiser bagger. I also love the BMW even with my previous vibration comments.

[@scotteb71]

This one isn’t about the bike, but the gear, you are clear and hear you well on your rides, with no wind or exhaust sounds. What is the Mike set up and how does it all work with the cams. Loving your reviews on bikes and places and all too. Glad I found your channel

[@darinladlie2658]

Great review. I agree it’s a good looking bike but the mid controls and the way you rest legs up like that are not for me. But good job

[@Greg-yk9dq]

I was surprised you didn't mention the lack of forward compartments for storage. But you did a great job.

[@HerTwoWheels]

I’ve had to accept that fact hahaha

[@tibortoczauer7985]

Not sure if it's the same on the R18, but most BMWs have the grip heat control by the right grip. It's usually that second smaller button up from the red starter/cutoff button. As for getting your leg up on and off the leg rests, hip flexor exercises are really good for you and you won't have that problem anymore ;)

[@gtnoslp]

Great vlog/review

[@jayroberts7274]

Just watched a clip on the R18 bobber...wondering if that pogo seat could be fitted to this one.

[@baggerbuley]

The bang for your buck aspect is excellent. All the extras for a bit more money is enticing. I hope to test ride one in the future when I make the jump to a bigger bike. Great vid and review Jess! 🤘

[@Wollenschrank]

Very nice video. But where was the camera installed? On the chin or in front of the chest? Doesn't the handlebar fairing obstruct the view of smaller drivers? Many greetings from Germany, God bless you all! Frank

[@KamranMalik-t6g]

hi hru nice review yr looks r amazing yr a super model

[@caldaemon]

Great review. Safe rides!

[@widuthirteen4811]

I have an R1200RT. With BMW linked brakes you do NOT have to use the rear brake when braking at speed. I've ridden the R18 Classic for 1000 miles but not the bagger.

[@JS-nf1sn]

Great review. I have the bagger. They should have put a switch for the heated grips and seat. It is annoying to have to go through the menu to adjust that...

[@opsecalpha]

Excellent review and you confirmed many of the issues I have with the BMW. The motor is a quality motor. However, its configuration is awkward on a motorcycle. Also, I hate mirrors on the handlebars for the exact reasons you stated. Mirrors on the fairings are much better and don't suffer from vibration. Thanks again. Overall, I agree with your assessment.

[@LimitedGunnerGM]

I bought the transcontinental and the heel/toe shifter is 100% adjustable. Switch the order they are mounted on the shaft and it’s much better.

[@mburton2609]

Great vid, Jess.

[@matthewlist2069]

Hi. Just purchased myself an r18 classic and I love it. Just want to know what type of luggage rack/sissy bar you have there. I'm looking to fix a top case to mine just so I have somewhere to put my helmet and things when I'm off the bike. Thanks

[@nelmar5560]

Great review, thanks.

[@davepitera]

There should be a button on the right grip for your heated grips. Press once for high, twice for medium, three times for low.

[@amasdaha9734]

I set the “wild card” button on mine to go straight to the grip heating. It took less then 30 seconds to do and problem was solved.

[@IndigenousSteed]

I would have never even thought about this bike until I seen you riding it around.

[@HerTwoWheels]

Honestly same… it was very intimidating the first time I saw it…. Kinda crazy how fast i fell in love with it!

[@IndigenousSteed]

I like that it kind of has the look of an old war tank or something.

[@d.b.7678]

Jess you definitely have talent!..great review..keep it up!

[@mont10000]

Any idea where I can find this passenger backrest/rack for the R18 bagger? Great job on the review!

[@jamesburrow9295]

Is your phone on a quad lock system? I had to mount mine on the mirror stem. Cant find room on the handle bar.

[@AronnPalmer]

Jess, Im looking at upgrading from an HD street 500 to an R18B. What are your thoughts or opinions after a year now on the seat comfort and windshield height? Im only 5'8. Or anyone else opinions on stock seat and windshield height. Thanks. Keep riding safe!

[@Firestorm637]

Great review thanks.

[@amasdaha9734]

I would love to see how you like the BMW RT for “bagger” purposes by comparison. It seems to be the true king of long distance riders for BMW. Keep up the good work 😎

[@donpet8258]

iv riden that bike. & owned 6 bmw bikes. That 1800 bmw bagger is going to have the same destiny as their 1200 C bike of the james bond days.. kind words you’ve had they’ll give you a bike again

[@塘埔橋水鴨]

Good review, will definitely buy one

[@Donfleebie1]

There are no twisty roads in FL.

[@PappyfromtheKeys]

There are over by Brooksville! In general you are absolutely correct though!

[@Mistamet]

Where did you order the sissy bar? I'm having trouble finding one that is compatible with r18b 2022

[@aleanarobins2651]

I just reached 10,000 k on mine and I hate the heel shift on it. The Stock seat was a nightmare so I upgraded to the Mustange. OH yeah the "Rubber Necks" that are always looking and asking questions. I found my mirrors did the same when both hard are not in bars. I have a Delux model no fuel gauge or Tac drives me nuts. My heated grips are a single button control. I love the reverse!!! I am in Australia.

[@dasp125]

As far as I know you can hold down the heated grip on/off button and it’ll shortcut to the temperature settings on the screen.

[@vladimirdior1102]

To become perfect, this bike should get DCT as standard

[@marcusturner5291]

Nice review keep up the good work Her Two Wheels

[@c.f.1133]

For anyone bothered by hunting for heated grips in the menus; there's also a button on the right-hand controls easily reached with your index finger.

[@HerTwoWheels]

Not on the bagger. They replaced it with a bag locking button. Trust me, I was sad hahaha

[@c.f.1133]

@@HerTwoWheels Ah, shoot! Sorry for the misunderstanding. I rode an R18 Classic last weekend and never stopped to think that the B would have power locks. Thank you for setting me straight!

[@c.f.1133]

@@HerTwoWheels Returning to this comment almost a full year later. The 2024 and up have added a programmable shortcut button, with heat toggle being one of the options. ALMOST bought a '23 Option 719 R18B yesterday that was marked down over $8k (to just below $20k).

[@stephenbattles4573]

Toe down, heel up. Simple. Why any issue using the heel/toe shifter?

[@PappyfromtheKeys]

I am impressed by your review! Never knew it was buzzy above 3500. About what speed is that? Am assuming it is wayyy up there! Harleys? Everybody's got one. Not unique in any way at all. This bike is very unique much like you are and it seems to fit you well. Sorry you are giving it back! I also ride a unique cruiser and enjoy compliments and looks every time I stop somewhere. Super comfy, plenty of power, smooth as silk and you don't see them every day. Something to be said for that! Keep up the good work, kiddo! You are doing a wonderful job so far!.

[@davidcarroll7193]

Does bmw have the squealer dealership charges? Or is that out the door plus tax of course?

[@thevoiceinmyhelmet3827]

Super enjoyed this in depth review of Beemer’s bagger this is a beautiful bike and really a different and welcome direction for BMW . Thanks for what you do 😎👍

[@sherab_toronto]

I don’t own a R18,but to activated the heated grip I don’t think you have to go thru left hand wheel,setting , scroll down “100 hrs” lol maybe I’m wrong.…it should be there, a physical button on right hand . Otherwise good video as always. Cheers from Toronto.

[@mgsboedmisodpc2]

Learned a new term today and have to ask did you experience any "shaft jacking" when down shifting this motorcycle say in a curve which is a shaft drive issue.

[@ronanderson1479]

It'll be my next bike....... I demo it everytime they come to my city

[@tylerthrash3155]

How big is the tank and what mileage did you get out of it?

[@kimhorton6109]

I’ve had two BMWs: a K75 RT and an R 90/6. I loved both of them but I can’t say the same about dealers. I lived inShreveport when I had both of my Beemers. I bought the K75 off EBay and had to catch a ride out to San Diego to buy and pick it up from a police officer. It was nearly 15 years old when I bought it and had 20k miles on it. It ran the whole way back to Shreveport and I took it to the local BMW dealer to see if they’re oils service the rear. They wouldn’t. The same thing happened to the R 90/6. It began trying to start itself. The local service guy at the dealer didn’t want to deal with it. If Beemers still have the same problems with needing you to pull the rear wheel/shaft out of the tranny for lubrication(Hondas don’t) I’ll never touch another one. if the Shreveport dealer hadn’t treated me so poorly, I’d still have that K75RT and the R90. Both were killer scoots. This is the best cruiser I’ve seen in the market recently. The Opposed twin has always been that engine that just does it’s job.

[@morgancurtis9166]

WHAT MOUNT ARE YOU USING ON YOU PHONE I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW I HAVE A R18B AND WHAT SISSY BAR IS THAT

[@ericbradley7828]

To me it seems like the heads that stick out horizontal would get in my way of the legs.

[@secret.goblin]

Hi! I've been checking out your media gear, especially the microphone. Can I ask what kind of mic adapter you're using for the GoPro? The mic on your gear list just has a 3.5mm jack, not a USB C

[@harleyquebecenrevue3580]

Excellent review ! ❤

[@johnny2303]

Yes . What about the weight? If you lay this bike down,you wont be able to get it up without help. The shifter? You have a small foot. Is it not cramped?

[@pauladleta9036]

Heel, toe is fine, toe is my favorite! Heel is great when I'm drag racing, wonderful opinion.🤟RMFR.

[@COLLABORATOR69]

i think u need to do a review of a 2022-23 GOLDWING !

[@thollingsworth4910]

Im looking to add another bagger to my collection. These are absolutely beautiful and ill be giving them another look.

[@Firestorm637]

I would buy this hands down! No mods needed. No stage 1-4 needed. Done. BMW motorrad receives a lot of its tech from BMW cars. That is why BMW first to market with new tech filtering down through the car company. BMW one of first stability control with IMu, electronic suspension, and now adaptive cruise control. Also keeps repair costs down.

[@LiarOfAngmar]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on that one, it's got a wild appeal and i'd certainly go for it myself. How about showing us the Harley Davidson counterpart, the street glide is it not? Never could try this one at this point but it seems like a good choice cruiser wise ..