BMW R 18 Transcontinental Test 2021 - Review of the most powerful touring boxer of all time!

BMW is logically expanding the range of the R 18 series. After the naked, lightly disguised and excavator version, the R 18 Transcontinental is the true travel bike. And as is so often the case with such heavy bikes, the pure weight figure of 441 kilograms with a full tank is shocking. Once the Transconti is underway, everything suddenly becomes comparatively easy. Of course, quick changes of direction are taboo and the brake needs manual force, but the comfort on long distances is wonderful thanks to the cozy ergonomics and smooth chassis. The largest series boxer engine also cuts a good figure: noticeable vibrations, but not too much. The fairing is also okay, even though some competitors have an electrically adjustable windshield. The rest of the bling-bling is absolutely state-of-the-art, with a Marshall music system, 10.25-inch color TFT and much more.

[@stevoone342]

As a new owner of a R18 Transcontinental, coming of a K1600GA. I’ve been blown away by the R18 in a massively Positive way, one of the keys of this bike is to treat her as a cruiser Not as a sport or nimble bike, witch I’ve noticed a few big Reviews / Vlogers doing witch will only get the Wong end of the stick. But this type of bike isn’t for Everyone. I’ve found my ridding style suites her and the looks are amazing especially the detail. Also be aware if you own one you will find a lot of people will look at her. I’ve found the Engine so far amazing but can be smooth on the cruse or shaking / Rumble with caricature when you whant. The Toque from the engine is something else. Cons she is expensive BUT compared to equally equipped Harley Davidson she is a lot Cheeper in comparison. Also BMW service is First class and plenty of them about if I where to have an issue.

[@blancolirio]

Great Review!

[@scottem2189]

Can’t fit two full face helmets in the upper storage case. The engine is very under powered!! The paint is easily on par with any CVO out there, the dash looks very nice. However, the power gauge makes it all look anemic because the engine is under powered. The speakers sound amazing no matter what speed you’re going. The fit and finish are excellent on this bike. The lights are wonderful. The adaptive cruise control for use on a bike is excellent however, it is easily disrupted with too many bugs hitting the radar in the front of the bike and dust or dirt buildup on the sensor located on the front wheel. The side bags look sizable. However, when you open the top cover, there are these thick liners of plastic in there and it cuts down on the space dramatically, making them almost useless on north American motorcycle travels. The transmission shifts smoothly and the use of a reverse gear was very nice in some situations. The big boxer engine looks impressive however, it is under powered compared to the Indian pursuit or challenger that have about 122 hp. The boxer motor cylinders are obviously in the way of my feet, resulting in a forward shifter lever being mounted lower, preventing my foot from getting under the forward, shifter lever, and forcing me to use the rear shifter lever. The windshield is very nice and the dash covered in leather is unexpected on a motorcycle, and really adds to the looks. I suggest installing a windshield that can easily be adjusted up or down with a button on the handlebar. There is very little aftermarket support for the BMW transcontinental as compared to other touring bikes in America. There is no luggage rack on the upper case which if you’re traveling in North America is a major problem. The type of fluids utilized in the BMW transcontinental can only be obtained at the dealership, and of course it has an inflated cost associated with it. What does all of this mean I traded the bike in for a Indian pursuit elite, and I have absolutely no regrets. This bike is ideal for shorter drives. Maybe two or three hours, but is not good for multi day vacations in North America

[@Lukas-kh5gu]

how‘s the braking with 450kg bike?

[@nicholasjheinz7461]

The R18 will be a sales flop like the Yamaha Transcontinental! Read Robert Simmons review on the R18 and why BMW missed the mark. Back to the drawing board for this mess of a bike!