BMW has updated its R18 cruiser lineup for 2025 receiving new features, blacked-out elements, a new exhaust design and a little more torque across the series while also making the boxer twin Euro 5+ compliant.
- The standard R 18 now uses a new 18-inch rear wheel
- The 1802cc engine produces 5Nm more torque, output rated at 91hp and 163Nm
2025 BMW R 18 lineup: What’s new?
The ‘18’ stands for the largest boxer twin BMW has ever made displacing 1802cc. The Bavarian brand subsequently launched several iterations of the R 18 in the form of the Classic, R 18 Transcontinental, R 18 B and the most recent being the R 18 Roctane.
All the models feature the same Euro 5+ compliant 1802cc, boxer twin engine, producing 91hp and 163Nm, which is an increase of 5Nm compared to the outgoing model. Like most cruisers that are belt-driven, the R 18 in typical BMW fashion, gets a shaft-type final drive.
The R 18 lineup’s feature updates differ from variant to variant, but it is the Standard R 18 that receives the most feature additions in the form of a new front and rear mudguard, new wheel design and 18-inch rear wheel (BMW will offer the earlier 19-inch (F) and 16-inch (R) as an accessory), new exhaust design, tweaked suspension for comfort, type-c charging socket and a DRL as standard.
The R 18 Classic features a new front mudguard in conjunction with a 19-inch spoke front wheel (previously 16-inch), a front DRL, a type-C charging socket and an additional blacked-out variant.
The R 18 B, Transcontinental and Roctane being the recent additions to the lineup already get cast aluminium wheels and blacked-out elements such as the cylinder head covers, airbox cover, headlight trim, exhaust and even blacked-out badges to give this cruiser a stealthy look. Additionally, all three get a favourite button for its 10.25 inch TFT display and a new two-tone red metallic paint job as part of the update.
The R 18 lineup now gets optional equipment as part of the Comfort package with cruise control (BMW R 18 only), heated grips, hill start assist and a lockable fuel filler cap which was not offered earlier.
The R 18 First Edition was launched back in 2021. Currently, the standard model has been discontinued with the R 18 Transcontinental being the only model on offer, priced at Rs 32.5 lakh (ex-showroom). It rivals the Harley Davidson Road Glide Special. It remains to be seen when BMW will launch the updated R 18 lineup in India.
Dinshaw Magol
