BMW Motorrad has launched the new R18 Classic in India, based on the R18 platform. It is positioned as a touring motorcycle and looks different from the R18 First Edition Cruiser.
Gets touring friendly seat and saddlebags
Auxiliary lights are standard
Costs Rs 1.5 lakh more than the BMW R18 First Edition
BMW R18 Classic: what’s different?
The BMW R18 Classic is based on the R18 First Edition, and since it is the touring focused of the two, it features specific changes. At the front, the BMW R18 Classic gets a pair of auxiliary lights that flank the LED headlamp on both side. Then there’s the tall windscreen that should offer some much needed wind protection, considering that the motorcycle is capable of attaining some serious triple-digit speeds. Another big change is the move from a 19-inch to a 16-inch front wheel, along with wider tyres, in keeping with the touring focus of the motorcycle.
Move to the side and you’ll notice a reprofiled rider’s perch and a pillion seat, as well as saddlebags However, in order to accommodate the bags, the R18 First Edition’s stylish fishtail exhausts have been replaced with slash cut exhausts.
BMW R18 Classic: what hasn’t changed?
The BMW R18 Classic utilises the same teardrop fuel tank, body panel frame and suspension as seen on the R18 First Edition. It also gets the lovely white stripes that highlight the lines on the motorcycle. But more importantly, it has the massive, 1,802cc boxer-twin engine that develops 91hp and 158Nm of torque. It also gets the exposed shaft drive that looks great in motion, as we found out during our first ride. The standard Roll, Rock and Rain riding modes are present in the R18 Classic as well.
BMW R18 Classic: price and availability
The BMW R18 Classic is priced at Rs 24 lakh (ex-showroom, India) that makes it around Rs 1.5 lakh more expensive than the BMW R18 First Edition. The motorcycle will be available across all BMW Motorrad showrooms in the country.