BMW has released a teaser image of the R18 cruiser, stating that the bike will be revealed on April 3, 2020. The German manufacturer had showcased the concept R18 cruiser at the EICMA 2019, and its sweeping form, gorgeous cruiser stance and a large boxer engine, typical BMW Motorrad, left many captivated. It’ll be interesting to see what the production version will look like and to what extent it will resemble the concept.
The BMW R18 Concept features a simple, cradle-type chassis that houses the new, 1,800cc, two-cylinder boxer engine. Its appearance is reminiscent of the flat-twin engines that BMW Motorrad used to build up until the end of the 1960s, but with a considerably bigger displacement and modern air/oil cooling.
Another visual highlight is the exposed, chrome-plated universal shaft that connects the back wheel to the drive. There are no other body panels anywhere on the motorcycle, which has been done to stay true to the cruisr form. Similarly, the electronics of the concept bike are reduced to no more than starter and lights, underlining its purist design. But we do expect BMW to add modern-day electronic rider aids such as ABS and possibly traction control as well.
The BMW R18 will surely have a challenge on hand as it will go up against established competition from the stables of Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle. Both of these marques have a large number of passionate enthusiasts who swear by their products. That said, a BMW cruiser is something many are looking forward too, and we can’t wait for its showcase.