Why The New 2021 BMW R18 Classic Is Better Than The First Edition!

[@basilbautista9194]

I just bought one. and i love my r18 1st edition better more minimalist looking .

[@billgunther]

Have had mine for over a month. Absolutely delightful to feel that engine pull you when you accelerate. It's a wonderful feeling and it is a throaty, competent power plant, indeed. Don't trust any review unless you ride it for yourself. I am 6'3", 265lbs and have never dragged the pegs. Classic exhaust is big improvement over the fe. This thing is fun, beautiful, throaty and a ton of torque at most any rpm ... I highly recommend. Test drive. Make sure it is in Rock mode. It will bring a smile to your face. Guaranteed.

[@brandt85able]

Hi! Im 192cm tall im not sure bit i think its Around your hight, is it comforteble for our hight? Im used to forward controls

[@billgunther]

@@brandt85able so I am very comfortable on the bike. I ordered crash bars and rider leg tests 9 months ago. Crashbars came in but leg rests still back ordered. 🙁 IMHO, you should have no issue with this bike. My size 13 shoes were of more a concern but they fit fine also. 😁

[@PatrickJWenzel]

At 193cm / 6’4” and 120kg / 265lbs… I appreciate the questions and answers you both exchanged here.

[@stevensullivan5287]

Loveeee mine, it takes a bit to handle as she's a big lady. But the ride is an experience that will never be forgotten. Riding 48 years, still going though....lmao

[@andrewd7586]

I bought the 1st edition because of its simplicity. I wanted the stripped back version. Having said that yes the cruise would be handy as I had it on my previous S1000RR & S1000R. I opted for the reverse gear on mine & it’s a godsend! I think BMW launched it the right way & I love mine. 👍🏼😎🇦🇺

[@motobob]

Enjoy mate! You probably have better weather than us so a screen won't matter so much :)

[@andrewd7586]

@@motobob Beautiful autumn weather in central Victoria, Australia of constant temps of 26-27C! So yeah better than you blokes are having over there! I’ve experienced a bit of London winter weather back in 2016. I admire you Pommies for dedication to riding though in crap weather! 👏🏻 👍🏻😎 Stay safe thru this Covid Bob!🤞🏻🍻

[@agoodjoe6910]

Can always remove the screen and enjoy the rest of the upgrades

[@rzu7120]

Definitely nicer looking than the First Edition (especially the exhaust system).

[@seismikman21]

Great looking cruiser, wish the tank was that bit bigger though

[@k.sjones9139]

Great looking bike. When my lotto numbers come out I'm having one of every bike 👍🏻

[@wasimskhan]

Amen

[@arnarne]

Same here! 😜👍🏻

[@uytouytoo9944]

👍👍👍🙏🙏

[@jonnycando]

Heavy bikes are very American and I am pretty sure BMW had their eyes on us as much as their own original R5 which was inspiration for this….and to me it looks so much more purposeful festooned with the touring bits. And yes the straight pipes are better though I give BMW kudos for having the chutzpah to produce the original pipes.

[@motobob]

Yeah I'd agree - although they're not to everyone's taste, I'd much rather see some original design than another Harley copy.

[@Vegesaurus7]

I agree this classic would be much more practical but I’m with you good on BMW for having the guts to make something really special first.

[@StreetTwinRider]

That is an absolutely stunning bike.

[@rubensahak9178]

disagree

[@straightup1234]

Love BMW build quality

[@StreetTwinRider]

@@rubensahak9178 Well these things are subjective, what's your main reason for disagreeing?

[@rubensahak9178]

@@StreetTwinRider They took beautiful engine and made HD wannabe cruiser that you can't even turn without hitting pegs then add mediocre looking bags and boring screen...Seriously I bet original designers of R18 are pissed off how marketeers watered down the concept to basically mediocre level.

[@rubensahak9178]

@Mike Clarkson you obviously have not watched enough testing footage almost all testers were grinding foot-pegs even on moderate curves.Its logical look at seat high!!!!!!! If you want to cruise straight roads fine but certainly wont be fun on twistes kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnKXe2V_nMqUh6M

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Nice review Bob! Not my Cuppa tea, however it did make me think about CHIPS! BTW, I believe the Honda Goldwing had reverse before you were born! 👍😎🇦🇺

[@motobob]

It did indeed have a starter motor system like this, but the best reversing bike I've tried is the Goldwing DCT which genuinely revs up and feathers the clutch for you. In a backwards race up a hill, the GW would win hands down!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@motobob Now that’s a video comparison I would actually “pay per view”!

[@osamabinladen824]

@@motobob Do a video of a backward race between GW and R18? 😀

[@jasonchapple4698]

The more I look at this bike the more I want one

[@motobob]

It's a beautiful thing to behold.

[@tedwitus]

I can see a smaller R-9 coming, based on the R-nineT love it. thanks motobob

[@TheTripleDubya]

Much better than the first model released and yes, cruise is a must.

[@IanTheEarlobe]

Great review as usual. I’ll buy once once I’m old and grumpy

[@andrewd7586]

Hence why I bought my 1st edition R18!🤬🤪🤣👍🏼

[@bfarm44]

My favorite unaffordable mototank

[@johncraftenworth7847]

First high end cruiser outside HD and Indian that interests me a lot. I'm American btw

[@motobob]

It's definitely up there - will be interesting to see how well it sells in the US.

[@miyumiyu7089]

Yes, I agree it is better looking than the first edition - especially the exhaust, however, my guess is the Bobber will be the nicest.

[@seekerofthenarrowgate8716]

Happy St. Patrick's Day Bob. Thanks for the great video content.

[@motobob]

Thanks ND! My pleasure

[@wayneheart7676]

This Beemer has my attention. BALLS OUT !

[@luigidinardo]

Great review of a great bike. On a side note, the last time BMW made a bike this big, it came with a sidecar and a machine gun...lol...;)

[@wayneheart7676]

Side car bike is exactly what I was thinking! The reverse is ideal for a rig . Plus it's hard to drop ! Wouldn't want to get that sucker on top of me ! ..like the " BALLS OUT " look of the engine.

[@marcusmckay3668]

I prefer the first edition.

[@ddunnum]

The bike looks good. I think the pipes look much better. I like the cruise control as well. I used to put a lot of miles on my scoot and my throttle hand took most of the abuse. I will say the pipes are too quiet for me. The bike has a great sound, but I would have to open them up to get a bit more of the sound out. If I could still ride I would likely consider this bike. I love Harley's but I have cut the umbilical cord. In the end, I would ride anything if it sounded good and was comfortable.... did I mention this would need some Ape Hangers too.:)

[@_audacerider3838]

I recon the it is a massive mistake on BMW behalf not to give R18 first edition cruise control(do You think there will be an option of retrofitting one to a R18 First Edition?) And a must agree with You as well the R18 Classic is making more sense as a cruiser. And the straight exhausts do make it look better. Now what You need to do is to test ride my Moto Guzzi California Audace 1400 and see how the Italians do a big capacity transversely mounted twin with shaft drive. Especially in the year whem Moto Guzzi is celebrating their 100th birthday. Grate video as usual.

[@motobob]

You know what I just checked the configurator and you can now spec the First Edition with cruise control for $350. I don't think it was an option at launch though so maybe they've added it recently...

[@milodebruin4821]

Stunning despite not being my cup of tea.

[@tommays56]

I love this version as the fatboy tires really compleat the look and would be really interesting to see it with solid wheels AKA Harley

[@motobob]

Some good wheel choices on the BMW Configurator but no solids I'm afraid.

[@Firestorm637]

Harley’s are on every corner. This is much more exclusive

[@stevenkelby2169]

Love your channel, would love to buy you a bear one day! Keep up the great work 🍻

[@andypants1000]

🐻

[@stevenkelby2169]

@@andypants1000 Oh, um, yeah that's right, I'd buy him a bear! 🐨

[@motobob]

Thanks for the kind words Steven! And yes, I'd take a bear. Sounds great :)

[@darylclifford]

A Circus Bear riding in reverse with Benny Hill music would sell R-18’s like hot-cakes !!

[@chrisharrington3565]

The Classic is a stunning bike.Very tempted to have a test ride when we are allowed.

[@pistolpete6321]

Love that motorcycle, stunning!

[@claytonsorensen1596]

Saw a demo model of one of these today for 15K American dollars. Was comparing it against a Harley Heritage and Indian Super Chief…the BMW while museum quality, is a heavy beast to get off the kickstand compared to Harley and Indian.

[@guywolff]

So here in New England that model is coming in right around $25,000.00 .We have lots of movie stars who might be able to afford one .. Boy would I love an 800 boxer with these art deco lines .. AN R /2 modernized with a back rack and avon bags heated grips and Cruise control .. Maybe some day :) ..

[@humanbeing1675]

It doesn't make much sense to offer the completely new developed motor only with 1800 cc. I'm quiet sure that we'll see this motor with 1500cc or even less.

[@felixhora8535]

Thanks for your review! I've been trying to find reviews on the R18 Bobber. Would there be a wy for you to test ride it, and give your opinions on the R18 with the bobber specs? Would be great to know more about the riding geometry there, comfort, and the options that setup has. Thanks again!

[@michaelhayward7572]

Fishtails. Loved them.

[@kellyco4139]

A beautiful and magnificent piece of machinery

[@steveh7108]

I love the looks of the original and I like this one even better. The cruise control and the exhaust are definitely an improvement. Windshield and saddlebags definitely an improvement for my personal taste. However, limited lean angle and the dealer Network in the USA is still a deal-breaker for me to seriously consider it. I have only three BMWs in the past and still own one that I will keep forever but I'm done with BMW due to its poor dealer Network, quality control ( way too many recalls) and they're over complicated maintenance. My K1600 you had to take out a inner and outer plug just to change the oil and then you had to go to a dealer just to reset the oil change light. Some of the Bluetooth functions proprietary only to certain helmets. Just ridiculous. Indian has been killing it lately. Only in business about 10 years and they have a better dealer Network than BMW. I was a big fan of BMW but now I'm over it.

[@perhaps6112]

Nice review as always Bob and I agree that this Classic version looks better than the original R18. It's also more practical with the screen, bags and cruise etc., a direct competitor to the HD Road King or Indian Springfield for example, both of which are similar stripped down tourers that it resembles in style though they lack a reverse gear. These types of bike look so much more attractive to me than full baggers like the Harley 'Glides or the Gold Wing, though that is entirely subjective of course. I know you like the GW. I love this appearance and have owned two Road Kings in the past, fabulous to ride, especially across Europe, though very heavy like the R18. Amongst the most comfortable long distance bikes I've ever owned, and I've owned a lot. Could have done with a reverse gear though. The weight got a bit too much for me as I aged and now have a Triumph Speedmaster, a cruiser that weighs a whole 100kg less than the R18, has cruise too. If it wasn't for the huge weight of the R18 Classic, I'd be looking at one.

[@motobob]

Speedmaster seems like a great choice - I love the riding position on that bike. So comfortable and laid back, and the engine is great too.

[@waydegardner7373]

I love the new Speedmaster as well but seemed too small for me. I bought the Classic and it’s a different ride than the Pure. The Classic handles surprisingly well and as of yet, haven’t scrapped the pegs. I opted for the pegs vs footboards. Holan had some nice aftermarket, wider pegs that are the best of both. I can strip down my Classic and it becomes even more nimble.

[@Dan-56]

The straighter mufflers look much better than the first edition ones with the external seams top and bottom. The style and overall finishing is beautiful, but at 365 kg I’d need Viagra for my leges just to get it up off the side stand 🤪.

[@travelinben1966]

I like it, but I’m going to have to hold out until they fit it with a fuel gauge.A lot of people would like to have it with a fuel gauge, so let’s see if BMW listens.

[@feloniousmonk3049]

For the price, a fuel gauge should come standard.

[@mikebikekite1]

It would of been nice to know price, what it was like to ride, range, mpg etc. I'm a fairly old rider (61) but used to have Guzzi California's when they were 1000cc and loved them. I had a Yam XJR 1300SP but felt the I was just in the middle between a fight between the engine power and the weight - I wouldn't be keen on repeating that. I did have a parallel twin BMW GS which was fun to ride but (very) fragile in a crash. It was written off in a crash that the California would of shrugged off. I'll admit I like the look of this bike but does it really need to be 1800CC?

[@andypants1000]

Whoa this fixes everything I thought didnt look hood on the original R18. Peel that windscreen off and I'd be in heaven.

[@motobob]

Not sure if it's easily removable like on the Harleys - will find out next time.

[@andypants1000]

@@motobob if it is - it's my new dream bike. Its gorgeous.

[@sergeyrybakov9742]

Thinking of buying one like this, but with less chrome

[@gnelegnelix7592]

Just bought it. Will let you know...

[@motobob]

Enjoy!

[@gnelegnelix7592]

@@motobob After riding it, both, in the city and on highway, there is some thoughts: overall quality is great, lot of chrome, everything fits perfectly; seat is very comfortable, after almost 400km I did not feel a thing; seat position-you are leaned more forward than on a regular cruiser, but it helps, because you can not stretch your legs because of the huge cylinders in front(this was my biggest concern); breaks works perfect; torque is amazing; gas tank is too small for this huge engine-reserve was on after only 175km on a highway and it showed average fuel consumption 7,6l, with only 16l tank... BMW should definitely come out with larger tank; wind screen has some use in the city, but on the highway is good only for collecting bugs, nothing else-on 130 it just point air flow straight to you head and it is not fun at all(I am wondering would it be possible to change the angle of the windscreen, so it directs air over me); gearshift is too close to the floorboard, so it is very hard to change gears-there is this system that you can change it with your heel, but I still prefer the classic way(again wondering, could it be adjusted); lights are well positioned; all in all , I am very pleased with bike, but I hope it will be possible to adjust those couple of things and it will be perfect

[@bigbadbobdunn]

I just wish they would have put a larger gas tank on it. 4.2 gallons comes up to 200 miles on a good day.

[@High_Desert_Tanner]

How often do you ride more than that before wanting to stop anyway though?

[@feloniousmonk3049]

Rated 42 mpg, better recalculate to 168 mile and she's bone dry.

[@brianmcmanus4286]

I truly dig this motorcycle, and good on BMW.

[@karlosh9286]

Yeah, exhaust pipes look better. Does look like it is now more equipped for what should be its niche is.

[@darylclifford]

MOTOBOB !! That reverse trick could win a place on the Benny Hill show!! Can someone make a meme for it (Benny Hill music included)?

[@SteffiReitsch]

The length and size of the R18 is more suited for U.S. roads than UK, and I think that's what they had in mind.

[@robbikebob]

It looks good. Still not my bag though. I'd far rather get something like the scout and spend the extra on customisation, kit and a holiday.... I do prefer the straight exhaust, not a fan of the fishtails.

[@motobob]

Yeah like I say I think a smaller cruiser would better suit our roads unless you're motorway touring, but it was built primarily for the US so that's understandable.

[@bananapie2198]

How is the suspension compared to the first edition? Is it tuned to be a bit more plush or is it exactly the same?

[@Englishbikerdan]

These bikes really do fly when you give them some! 👀😁

[@motobob]

ROCK mode engaged.

[@clemcosta8101]

I've seen a lot of comments about how ugly the 1st addition pipes are , I absolutely love them as I do this new classic , I think alls that's missing is a luggage rack , n you've got the complete package . Unfortunately for my bank account , I think I've got a hook in my mouth .😁

[@MrAndrew1953]

This is the version I would go for with the chopper Z bars. What concerns me most is how easy it scrapes in corners.

[@erolyalim2911]

As far as ride quality, would you say that the Classic has a more noticeably comfortable ride than the First Edition or a very small difference?

[@leighmarino1318]

BOB.. How did you finding the riding position?? Were the cylinder heads to restrictive?

[@motobob]

I liked it - I don't mind a mid position though. In fact I think I prefer it. But it won't be to everyone's taste.

[@leighmarino1318]

@@motobob legend thanks mate. keep up the INSANE content. Love from down under 🇭🇲

[@power77]

But what do you think of the exhaust on the first edition (the fish tail)?

[@motobob]

Prefer this one, which you can spec it with on the BMW configurator.

[@archievthapa3593]

Fabulous presentation 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@kymbellaskitchen5349]

Omg i was scared but u did a great job and safe

[@GonzoZener]

Did the reflectors break off the saddle bags?

[@luismancilla650]

I like the bike. But i do have a bit of issues with this bike. 1) the cylinders are unsymmetrical, 2) the overall sound is buzzy (sounds like a 360° p-twin), 3) the price is a bit high(a lower price would sell better in the U.S.)

[@rosewood1]

What does it sound like??? And does it have a fuel guage?

[@abyalex235]

Looking towards to a sports oriented version of this R18.

[@marcosramos5117]

I like the minimalist look better but from the riding videos I have seen- the exhaust on these tend to scrape at almost every turn and lean.

[@ourunstablemind]

What happens if you drop it? How difficult is it to lift it back up?

[@1990-t1j]

Are these tubed tyres? I don't like this bike. If I wanted a big cruiser, it would be the Goldwing Bagger.

[@motobob]

The GW Bagger looks great. Also quite like the K1600 in bagger form too. But I'd also be looking at the Indian Challenger.

[@1990-t1j]

@@motobob I am contemplating a Trident 660 after sitting on one at the local Chiang Rai dealer. It fits me perfectly; 32'' inside leg. And everyone who has ridden one raves about it. I'll be following your progress on it, Bob.

[@colblimp1882]

I looks really cool. Classy too.

[@stevengodfrey891]

Does it have a fuel gauge yet?

[@bigberthaontour]

It's a great looking bike, huuuuge though!

[@Firestorm637]

Rocket 3 and R18 are the best cruisers

[@stevenwilliams1805]

Flippin gorgeous bike. 😍

[@Firestorm637]

Harley’s stage 4 not from factory. Plus RDRS is an option. It should be standard like all premium European bikes

[@andrewrogers2313]

Simply stunning

[@DirceuCorsetti]

Too bad the targeted audience got 40 years older after that edition. The concept bike is so much more in tune with today's minimalist aesthetic. With a smaller exhaust she could pose beside a proper custom bike.

[@motobob]

The concept was absolutely stunning tbf.

[@IanTheEarlobe]

1:45 they write KERB instead of curb in the UK lol

[@VamsidharaChakravarthy]

That's what ur great great grand pops mustve spelt it like Bubba

[@stanleylawson9015]

Hahahahaha loved the intro

[@motobob]

:)

[@BigMoeFo]

As I've said before the fishtail exhausts look more like the whole fish....was not my cup of tea. To bad you didn't;t start this one up just to hear it.You only gave us a few secs...at the start

[@BigMoeFo]

Oh you lucky lucky boy!

[@marvelsbagger4176]

Dreaming of a cruiser, nine T is great but the500 milers are a bit of bum and neck workout

[@mohawkdriver4155]

Not a fan of the 1st gen pipes at all. Love the straight ones on the Classic, tho...

[@peter2679]

I think this bike will sell on looks alone. If you want a true tourer with every conceivable comfort and performance it would be hard to go past the 2021 Gold Wing.

[@EllisBurton3339]

Gorgeous , but massively over priced , most will find there way into living rooms as ornaments .

[@motobob]

But what an ornament!

[@EllisBurton3339]

@@motobob Actually bought a First Edition six weeks ago and it doesn't live in the house , the wife thinks I'm having an affair , she's correct I am , I love it ....

[@111day1]

Why does BMW call this R18 “First Edition” when it’s the second one?

[@rsmith3033]

if bmw does not release a service manaul soon mine will b for sale !

[@stevecotterill7981]

What no road test? 🤔

[@motobob]

I rode it, just didn’t use any of the footage

[@Rwar007]

Short answer....it isn’t! The windscreen is trash as has terrible buffeting past 75mph.

[@johnDukemaster]

Thank you mr Bob! Those fishy exhaust pipes really look like something made in eastern Europe after the war. Really ugly! It's a high quality built machine, no doubt. But I just can't love those cylinders sticking out...ruins the nice lines of the bike. (Strong starter motor!)

[@motobob]

Definitely need to arrange a backwards drag race with the Goldwing DCT.

[@archievthapa3593]

Reverse gear ⚙️ 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

[@Firestorm637]

Love it

[@ronaldthomas9396]

I liked the shape of the 1st edition mufflers but the standing seam made them look like Japanese junk from the 1960s!

[@bitkurd]

Jeez a 700 pound bike god damn cant they use lighter shit? This is ridiculous. Engineers be like lets build a 700 pound bike where you can not lane split or share, too expensive and we have to convince them that this is the deal of their life. Someone will say awwww this is a cruiser not a RR then go get a god damn goldwing

[@CrazyGreek80]

All roads lead to Goldwing.

[@uscscjohnson]

It's a good looking bike. The riding position is virtually unbearable.

[@carlosd.2335]

It's unbearable to you. Don't generalize. I find it very comfortable and have taken long rides without a problem. I'm 5' 11" / 200lbs for scale.

[@uscscjohnson]

@@carlosd.2335 You are right. To each his own. A lot of riders find ape-hangers and crazy low seats comfortable so I know anything is possible. I am not a hater. I have a Harley and a BMW RT. I love the look of the first edition and planned to buy one. I was stunned by how uncomfortable I found the thing was to ride. My RT is far more comfortable than my Harley so I assumed this would be as comfortable or more comfortable than the Harley. Sadly, I did not find it close.

[@threethrushes]

Fugly. Prefer the concept/first edition look. Horses for courses.

[@feloniousmonk3049]

Those small plastic clips crack and break, over time and exposure to heat and sun. The Plastic dries out and then you have a useless bag that doesn't stay latched.

[@checker3694]

The paint quality looks terrible, the side of tank is orange peeley, and dull, unless it's the camera but I doubt it. Bmw can be hit and miss with paint finish

[@mahmoud5461]

Nothing like that

[@1har2vey3]

What a silly bohemeth. Would never want a bmw when there are harleys and yamahas to choose from

[@pureblood2020]

The horn on it is a joke! Sounds like it came off a moped.

[@larylongprong]

I will be interesting to see the mileage the starter lasts for!? (I'm an Auto sparky !) #SUPERBARILAROBRUZ

[@phlacoe]

They could have done a better job on the screen. Looks like a cheap eBay Harley screen.