Meet The Two Upcoming BMW R18 Models

BMW truly made its mark in the cruiser segment with the R18 last year. Not only did it manage to ruffle some feathers in the Harley-Davidson camp, but it also brought the biggest boxer twin ever fitted to a motorcycle. And now, the company plans on expanding the R18 series with two new cruisers, or rather, baggers, which have been spotted testing again.

Now, both these bikes are meant to take on specific Harley models. The simpler of the two will rival the Road Glide Special and Street Glide Special. On the other hand, the fully loaded one, trademarked as the Transcontinental, will go up against the CVO that’s available internationally.

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The latter also packs large and comfortable seats for the rider and the pillion. Features like heated (seats) function, an infotainment system, and ample storage space with the top box and panniers will come as standard. Even the comparatively basic model will also receive a set of fixed panniers or saddlebags.

Powering the two humongous Bavarian motorcycles will be the same 1,802cc boxer twin from the R18, producing 90PS and 151.45Nm. The engine tune will likely not be altered. Let’s hope these bikes get smartphone connectivity, navigation, and a TFT screen.

The BMW R18 doesn’t come cheap. Neither will the Bagger nor the Transcontinental. Expect a premium of around Rs 1.50 lakh for the former and Rs 3 lakh for the latter. Also, it would be excellent to see the former at the King Of Baggers, a hotly contested racing series in America between Harley’s Road Glide and the Indian Challenger.

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