I just picked up a 2022 "Demo bike" with only 275 miles on it. Price was discounted to 18K U.S. dollars. You can't get any big cruiser for this price. Literally saved almost $12K off a new 2023. This bike is a work of art. Just walk around and you won't see any exposed wiring and perfectly aligned seems. Runs Excellent. And unlike a Harley where you need to spend money on a new suspension and better seat, this is perfect. I have been a Harly rider since I was a kid riding the Z90 and 125's. I had Soft tails, Heritages and even a Road King. The craftsmanship of this bike is equal to the $50K Harley CVO. I did get the engine-over foot rest for long rides.
Man great video . I spent 8 of the last 12 years living on the road on bikes. I bought most of my bikes based off magazine reviews which turned out to be vary biased . I guess they can’t complain and still get paid trips to press launches . So I really appreciate your honesty . I’m actually picking up the Regular R18 myself since they are being discounted almost $10,000 in the USA . This is allowing me to get it fully loaded and fit my budget . They aren’t really selling so they are nicely discounted . I think it’s a nice bike . And don’t want to be another sheep on a Harley. Keep up the good work if you’re ever touring nyc area hit me up .
10K eh? Best I've seen is 6K with 6 months free payments. This was for a R18 First Edition. I'll be surprised any of the R18 models are still being imported 4 years out.
The reason I enjoy this channel soooooo much, is because I always have the impression that there is no journalist-keeping-the-manufacturer-happy syndrome going on. Straight talking, no B.S.!!! It's good to have reports with integrity, an old fashioned concept these days!, keep it up. Would I buy this bike? Hell, no. But that's cos it's just no where my head is at. It seems to be good and the electronic software will get sorted. What I want is a low mileage BMW R100RT. It's always been my dream bike. BTW! Did you allow Dave to come back inside when the rain stopped?..😂😂😂
Overall, good review. I have the R18B and absolutely love it. The only things that I don't particularly like is the small phone compartment and that the side stand is mounted a little too far foreword causing me to have to stretch to retract the stand. As far as the phone case, I bought a cheap ($50 US) go phone and added a $10 per month line to my regular cell plan. I leave that phone on the bike at all times and basically just use it for navigation. Other than those too small points, I have no complaints with the bike at all. It is different than other bikes but in a good way. Curb appeal, well it's just sexy as hell. Park a black street glide next to it and see which one attracts the most attention. Even little old lady's that have never been on a bike will stop what they are doing to tell you how pretty the bike is. My wife said that as good as the backside of the bike looks and with those big jugs sticking out, she didn't stand a chance. Seriously, Fit and finish of the bike is flawless. Styling is better than anything on the market. Ergonomics and seating position are wonderful. I've always ridden with forward controls and I am now a convert to mid controls. That big boxer engine has better cooling than a traditional V-Twin. You get all of that at roughly half the price of the equivalent Harley. I have been riding for 48 years and have no brand preference at all.
Man, this is a poem to r18b! And you know what? I agree totally having riding my own r18b for the first season. Every persons stares and takes photos. Especially - the kids and olders, couse they can feel trulliness. But this is not important, what matters is your emotions. And I can say that riding at 60-80 km per hour with King of Leon out loud out of the speakers, gives me incomparable emotions. May be hd streedglide would give me the same - but no one will know that. Greetings from Russia!
Superb honest, balanced and informative review. It never ceases to amaze me how much manufacturers spend on new models without basic testing of key design decisions, eg software, phone holder and lights. Get the fundamental functions right before going overboard on form.
Great honest review. The appeal of cruisers in that they work well on the street, at legal speeds. I used to think I liked to ride fast, or on dirt, but I usually found myself on city streets at legal speeds…so you might as well be comfortable!
Excellent, thoughtful review, thank you. I appreciate the "nitpicks". All very valuable information to have, especially the software info. And that little analog power gauge? Totally agree with you!! Put an analog clock there instead!
Firmware updates are definitely slower than molasses running down hill in January in Quebec and as a rule takes multiple tries to get it right. I love my 19GSA but it also has had plenty of connectivity issues. Great an honest video, thank you so much on you efforts for the riding community I really enjoyed your portal of this beautiful motorbike.
One of the reasons that the side stand makes the bike lean so much, is that it locks into place like Harleys. At least that is my impression from watching your video. It is a good looking bike, and I am sure that firmware updates will fix a lot of the problems you mentioned.
I just rode 5400 kms over 7 days. 1 was a 350 km day the rest were over700 kms days. Was a great ride. Everything from straight highways to twisties. Very comfortable and handled thd twisties like a dream.
Appreciate the review. It was honest if a bit brutal at times. When the R18 was first revealed I was ready with my pocket book. As we all know it was slow to come out. Then pictures of the bagger started to show and piqued my interest. Since my dealer had no release dates I bought a new RT for what I expected would be a year wait. On the base R18 and R18 Classic came out the next year. Talk about a disappointment. Gorgeous and it was obvious no effort was spared in making it look good but sadly riding was not giving the same effort. Yet I held out hope for the bagger even after sneak peaks showed a fixed windscreen. Then Cycle World dropped the bomb, they reveal EU filings and extrapolated the weight. Then it reached the press fleets and there was not a positive review to be found. Your comments on the software are in common with those who test rode it in August along with many riders having clutch issues where it either slipped or worse. Quite a few had heat issues which you did not because the time of year changed. BMW simply spent too much effort making a bike which is to be looked at and admired but it wasn't built for people who ride. Dealers are suffering because so much effort went into producing a line of bikes they cannot sell and worse BMW shorted other bikes to make sure these came fully equipped. They were shipping RTs with TPMS and speakers! Get the weight of the bagger closer to 800 rather than 900, put a real electronic suspension on it, and for god's sake put an adjustable windscreen on it. So my wait is over, I know now I will not be buying the R18 Bagger because it is not a motorcycle worth any money and I fully expect them to be heavily discounted and with hefty promotions within the year; just look what happened to the base model pricing and incentives. My dealer sold off two FE for less than 16k.
Looked to upgrade my 21 R18 Classic for the B. Looked at the TC while at my dealer but neither really overly impressed me. Not that they were bad but nothing I need that my C didn’t provide. My only wish was the C had a bigger gas tank. Coming from a Road Glide, I found it to be just as cumbersome. The added weight from the faring takes away some of the maneuverability unlike the C.
Great review! A bike I have in my sight for the near future. Thanks for picking the stuff up you won’t with a 30 minute test ride, I’d be upset if I paid that money with all the new bike issues this one comes with. My wife and I test rode a Harley Ultra a few weeks ago and found the buffeting on the windscreen appalling. Up to 110km/h you’re OK, but after that, your teeth fillings start falling out😕 How does the queen bee version of the R18 compare? Haven’t ridden it yet
Picking up my R18 Bagger next week. You’ve probably saved me a whole lot of pain with the vibration tip. Staying in that Sweet-Spot of 2400 rpm. Have ordered my Bagger with the Transcontinental screen so hopefully better. That software problem with the App is a real bummer, hope it’s sorted soon. Regarding the weight, I’m trading in my Triumph Rocket Touring which is about the same weight. You do get used to it, even in town riding. Great review! Have given my 👍 and rang the bell 💪 p.s. Was getting all excited about next week, until that bit at the end about jumping from 3rd gear into neutral. I’ve heard about this twice now. The first time didn’t bother me too much, thought it was probably a rider error. But you mentioning it again! WTF BMW!!! Hope this isn’t going to be an issue going forward 🤔
Yeah Baby, that is the one I want. So subtle and understated that no one would even notice me sneaking through city traffic. With the removal of the silencing part of the mufflers I could pass unnoticed, weave and wheelstand to my heart's content.
I seriously considered one of these this past summer. I went with a Honda Gold Wing instead, but I keep thinking I made a mistake. What kept me from the R18 TC was the lack of a center stand, the fact the nav system does not work without a phone, and it must have premium fuel. The Gold Wing is lighter, has a stand alone nav system, runs on regular fuel, and available center stand, but the build quality lags behind the R18 TC. Most people do not have the luxury of taking a bike for a multi day test drive, hell you are lucky to get to take it for a spin around the block. I think I would have been more comfortable with my choice if I had been able to test ride both of them.
Thank You so much for a really thorough review! Youre very honest, andx maybe all those glitches that you mentioned will inspire a complete sideshow of aftermarket bells and whistles in the very near future. At the least, theyve done their homework on the fenders and all the stuff that really counts. That was my biggest complaint in the beginning when they first came out with this model. BMW listens and i thank them for that. They really do try to put out the best long distance cruising bike that American riders want . Personally, i never was a fan of batwing front ends, but a clever guy can get a cup of his best R&D department coffee and go to work and design something that we can all appreciate and live with! Again, Thank you Sir for the fine review on this motorcycle. I do particularly love this design.
I'm glad I found your video. I've been on the fence on an S1000XR or going all out for one of these. Hearing about the user experience you had convinced me to bias towards the XR. Thank you!
Great review! I don't prefer cruisers, but after I took my wife on a spin on this bike, her grin said it all. I am just waiting on the price from the dealer. Hard to argue with the tech on this bike and the fit and finish is stunning. I found it fun to ride. It's a heavy pounder and vibrates at high RPM. I needed to shift more and treat it like the bitch it is through the corners. It wants to stay upright but it's quick to flick if you need it. I am 1.9 meters tall and I was worried about leg room but it's fine.
I have an R18B and I have to say your review is pretty much right on the money. I like the bike a lot BUT there are things which make me wonder "what were they thinking?". The weight and vibration make a very bad first impression for any test rider. I did like the way the bike handled and rode but was intimidated by the weight and annoyed with the vibration. I was finally seduced by the promotion BMW was offering and bought the bike anyway. Glad I did but while this is a good bike, it could have been a great bike.
You know what though I appreciate this review because you bring up amazing points that should be common sense that most people will still miss. Yes, why is the software glitchy? Why is the windscreen not adjustable? Why is there no Apple carplay? For that amount of money I don't want to be buying a fancy piece of glass that has nothing behind it.
Please please elaborate on the bomb shell you dropped in your first ride review that this bike went directly from 3rd to neutral! This would be a serious and potentially deadly flaw. Thanks, Rick
I really like your review. I own the r18 bagger. My Samsung S21 fits with the case on and the TFT is flawless. I know they had an update in fall off 2022. I don't think they are apple friendly.. I also use Spotify and its perfect. I hate the reviews that are just a test drive because you are correct in that it likes lower rpm. It took me 3 days to operate the bike properly.
GREAT review. I have a few questions that you didn't cover. I have not seen anyone review the backrest and what is that strap coming out between the rider and passenger sections of the seat? Also curious about the difference in the ride between a Harley belt drive and the BMW shaft drive. Keep up the great work.
A terrific review. I appreciate your independence and objectivity. I owned a R1200 CLC. I followed the R18 project from its inception. I test rode the R18 First Edition (twice) and the Transcontinental (on a 96F day in Chicago. I can't purchase the Transcontinental because of the: fixed wind screen, BMW's lousy navigation app, and a crazy kickstand which leaves me concerned that I failed to extend the kickstand and the bike is falling. I have 50,000 milles on my 2013 K1600 GTL before trading that bike towards a 2021 Indian Challenger with lots of extras. If BMW refined my complaints about the Continental then I might look at the bike again.
From my own, limited experience with the R18, I would suggest that anyone considering this bike test rides a K1600B or R1250RT. This helped me make my decision. I own a K1600B Grand America now. Best touring bike Ive ever experienced. And fast!
@@JUFFAIR101 When you get in some “dirty air” as they call it behind tractor trailers it gets a little unstable above 75 to 80 mph but other than that it’s stable and fast. Really fast! I purchased a kit to cover the gap where the trunk mounting bracket is on the back of the bike so you can essentially turn it into a bagger and having removed the trunk it feels more stable at highway speeds.
I won’t be swapping my R1250RT for this heavyweight with flaws. I think mine is the near perfect tourer. I moved away from heavy touring Harley’s as slow riding and manoeuvres were too risky for dropping. Very good review as always.
Great review as usual mate. Like yourself, this bike is not my style, but I'm sure a lot of riders would apprerciate the look and style that this bike projects. Stay safe.
hey buddy from South Africa 🇿🇦. You are so spot on with regard to how pathetic the software is on all BMWs.......I sold my RT, just becuase of all the frustrations experienced everyday, while I owned that bike. In a nutshell, Nothing works like advertised or worked like it should. And now they going to be putting this same system on the new K. why can't BMW fix all this before releasing the bikes. The RT is out over a year now, and still no solutions. Then they put ACC on this bike (imo you don't need ACC on the R18), but no quickshifter and on the new K coming, they don't give you ACC. That's the range that needs ACC, it's a touring bike bmw.
i bought this bike used and i love it out of 5 bikes its the one i ride the most. you made all the points i agree with especially the apple play, but one thing i cant believe is they put a dry clutch on it! really!?! but i defently dont regret buying it especially half the price of new
Fantastic vid Cool bike. At the moment I’ve got 2019 k1600ga witch I love but am currently thinking of swapping to the new one OR going for R18Trancontanetal, I am going to be test riding the r18 tomorrow when I have my bike evaluated. The problem I may face is I may like both 😂 but hopefully seeing a variant of a r18 and comparing it between mine will help also being able to ask the dealer questions as well will help.
Beautifull bike - i will never buy one ( even if i get much richer :)). Nevertheless, the review is one of the best i' ve ever seen. Liked the music, the explanations , the images - everything is spot on! Very well done!
Just watched this and I will give you my thoughts. I did about a 45 min test ride with highway and backroad mix. I am 6ft 4 in and the windshield is terrible for me with a lot of buffeting. I hated the heel - toe shifter and the seat was getting uncomfortable by the end of the ride. I thought the power was OK and the suspension and handling was far ahead of most cruisers. I do not like having my feet in front of me when riding but the seating position on the BMW was a little cramped. As for my background I am currently riding a 20 GSA and recently sold my Goldwing F6B which I had for 6 years and put 83,000 km on it. I did do a suspension upgrade and it transformed the bike. I have tested a Street Glide, a couple of models of Road Glide and recently an Indian Challenger. The Harleys are not even in the same league for handling and suspension. The Indian is on my list of possible cruisers. I will keep my GSA which is by far the the best bike overall out of all of the bikes I have owned. It is no. 24. I am looking for a second bike and after owning 2 Goldwings I am looking for something different in a big touring bike. Love you videos and look forward to the next one!
@@jeremynachbar3205 My F6B with my suspension upgrades was a better handling bike then the new gen Goldwing. I have tested many of them. I hate that front end.
@@kirbybradley8734theoretically IF you were in favor of the new front end, would a suspension upgrade on the 18+ GW be considerable upgrade on a sub suspension upgraded at F6B GW?
@@kirbybradley8734 you're saying to jeremy that the upgraded suspension on the f6b GW made it better than the new GW. Just curious if the new GW with the same upgrades on suspension you did to the F6B would make it favorabke (just theoeretically since now you're looking for something different than a GW in the big touring bike space)
Thank you for another insightful, honest review. I value your objectivity. I test rode the R18 Transcontinental on a 96F summer day. The air-cooled engine overheated. A warning light instructed me to keep riding. Deal breakers for me, after long-term ownership of a R1200CLC and a K1600 GTL, was the fixed windscreen, the kickstand which invited the 940 lbs motorcycle to tip over, and the lousy navigation system that was tied to my phone. I wished that the top case could be easily removed when not needed like the design on my GTL.
hmmmm, interesting verdict - in particular comparing it to your opinion on the Goldwing; I enjoyed the “non-cruiser” bits of the Honda a lot and couldn’t agree more to your findings; BMW seems out now …
Although the Indian Roadmaster or Challenger has adjustable windshield is a great option to have the BMW is different completely from other Tourers which ma ked it unique😊
Dude: love your reviews! My feeling being an owner of an 2019 RT, potential bagger owners (USA) with take one look at the R18’s and run, not walk, to their closet Harley or Indian dealer and put their $ down on American Iron. They know they’ll hold their value better… cheers from MN USA.
@@duosable You're correct, but I would not turn down a chance to test-ride one since I am a beemer owner & a fan. There will always be a niche market for them, especially now dealers are selling them with steep discounts which make them attractive.
I have a 2013 K1600 GT and I went and road the Transcontinental. I like the looks, but for overall comfort, my 1600 is much better. This is a great looking bike, but it will all revolve around the persons riding style.
You want an Adventure/Touring buy the GS or GSA (not Panamerica). You want a Cruise, buy a Street Glide or the Road Glide (not the R18). That sums how most people think here in the US.
BMW build a tourer and cruiser range to compete with Harley, who build an adventure bike to compete with BMW’s GS. Both good efforts, but unlikely to convert the core customers for each type of motorcycle. I am a Harley touring rider and I do struggle to understand who the target customer is for this BMW.
You mentioned Aladins carpet at 2,400 rpm. If I keep the bike between 2k and 3k rpm, will I find the ride smooth? (I don't prefer hot rodding, high rpms and vibration)
I do not understand why such large companies can't get the phone connectivity right, same goes for the GPS. Ducati screwed it up on the MS V4S with Sygic and BMW mopeds apparently went a similar route. Can they not stick their heads together with their respective automotive infotainment engineers? How hard can that be? Upsetting customers with petty crap engineering like this is very easy. The phone pockets are also a joke that somebody has to explain to me, what was their train of thought? Or better the lack of thinking?
Do you mainly prefer riding cruisers; and why?
I prefer riding Dualsport motorcycles with Dave.
No. I don’t understand the attraction!
@@Anton_G_604 I have ridden a few and never found them comfortable. But I do like the looks!
Terrified of dropping it! Not for me.
I prefer to ride light weight tourer, like the N1100.... R1200RT 😍 Heavy weight motorcycles are not for me and make no sense.
Possibly the most beautiful bike I have ever experienced 47 years riding. This list includes Elvis my 76 shovel and the amazing MGX-21
Yeah I’d agree. The build quality if you ever see one in the flesh is amazing.
I just picked up a 2022 "Demo bike" with only 275 miles on it. Price was discounted to 18K U.S. dollars. You can't get any big cruiser for this price. Literally saved almost $12K off a new 2023. This bike is a work of art. Just walk around and you won't see any exposed wiring and perfectly aligned seems. Runs Excellent. And unlike a Harley where you need to spend money on a new suspension and better seat, this is perfect. I have been a Harly rider since I was a kid riding the Z90 and 125's. I had Soft tails, Heritages and even a Road King. The craftsmanship of this bike is equal to the $50K Harley CVO. I did get the engine-over foot rest for long rides.
Who was your dealer? I am looking to a 2022 Demo also and the best price I was given is $21,000 + tax/license fees...
Probably the best and most honest review about this bike model I found on RUclips.
Man great video . I spent 8 of the last 12 years living on the road on bikes. I bought most of my bikes based off magazine reviews which turned out to be vary biased . I guess they can’t complain and still get paid trips to press launches .
So I really appreciate your honesty . I’m actually picking up the Regular R18 myself since they are being discounted almost $10,000 in the USA . This is allowing me to get it fully loaded and fit my budget .
They aren’t really selling so they are nicely discounted .
I think it’s a nice bike . And don’t want to be another sheep on a Harley.
Keep up the good work if you’re ever touring nyc area hit me up .
10K eh? Best I've seen is 6K with 6 months free payments. This was for a R18 First Edition. I'll be surprised any of the R18 models are still being imported 4 years out.
Can't argue with that. At ten grand off it's a great machine for the money.
The reason I enjoy this channel soooooo much, is because I always have the impression that there is no journalist-keeping-the-manufacturer-happy syndrome going on. Straight talking, no B.S.!!! It's good to have reports with integrity, an old fashioned concept these days!, keep it up.
Would I buy this bike? Hell, no. But that's cos it's just no where my head is at. It seems to be good and the electronic software will get sorted.
What I want is a low mileage BMW R100RT. It's always been my dream bike.
BTW! Did you allow Dave to come back inside when the rain stopped?..😂😂😂
Overall, good review. I have the R18B and absolutely love it. The only things that I don't particularly like is the small phone compartment and that the side stand is mounted a little too far foreword causing me to have to stretch to retract the stand. As far as the phone case, I bought a cheap ($50 US) go phone and added a $10 per month line to my regular cell plan. I leave that phone on the bike at all times and basically just use it for navigation. Other than those too small points, I have no complaints with the bike at all. It is different than other bikes but in a good way. Curb appeal, well it's just sexy as hell. Park a black street glide next to it and see which one attracts the most attention. Even little old lady's that have never been on a bike will stop what they are doing to tell you how pretty the bike is. My wife said that as good as the backside of the bike looks and with those big jugs sticking out, she didn't stand a chance. Seriously, Fit and finish of the bike is flawless. Styling is better than anything on the market. Ergonomics and seating position are wonderful. I've always ridden with forward controls and I am now a convert to mid controls. That big boxer engine has better cooling than a traditional V-Twin. You get all of that at roughly half the price of the equivalent Harley. I have been riding for 48 years and have no brand preference at all.
Man, this is a poem to r18b! And you know what? I agree totally having riding my own r18b for the first season. Every persons stares and takes photos. Especially - the kids and olders, couse they can feel trulliness. But this is not important, what matters is your emotions. And I can say that riding at 60-80 km per hour with King of Leon out loud out of the speakers, gives me incomparable emotions. May be hd streedglide would give me the same - but no one will know that. Greetings from Russia!
After testing the R18TC, I concur with your review. Well done thanks!
You are a top class reviewer! Your style and content is just perfect.
Most underrated motorcycle channel on youtube. Give this guy your sub!
Superb honest, balanced and informative review.
It never ceases to amaze me how much manufacturers spend on new models without basic testing of key design decisions, eg software, phone holder and lights. Get the fundamental functions right before going overboard on form.
Great honest review. The appeal of cruisers in that they work well on the street, at legal speeds. I used to think I liked to ride fast, or on dirt, but I usually found myself on city streets at legal speeds…so you might as well be comfortable!
Excellent, thoughtful review, thank you.
I appreciate the "nitpicks". All very valuable information to have, especially the software info. And that little analog power gauge? Totally agree with you!! Put an analog clock there instead!
Firmware updates are definitely slower than molasses running down hill in January in Quebec and as a rule takes multiple tries to get it right. I love my 19GSA but it also has had plenty of connectivity issues. Great an honest video, thank you so much on you efforts for the riding community I really enjoyed your portal of this beautiful motorbike.
One of the reasons that the side stand makes the bike lean so much, is that it locks into place like Harleys. At least that is my impression from watching your video. It is a good looking bike, and I am sure that firmware updates will fix a lot of the problems you mentioned.
The latest firmware update has fixed all the issues I was having.
I just rode 5400 kms over 7 days. 1 was a 350 km day the rest were over700 kms days. Was a great ride. Everything from straight highways to twisties. Very comfortable and handled thd twisties like a dream.
You have been part of my research on this bike, i love it and i have ordered one. Thank you very much.
just get the real thing, a real original HD. BMW please keep doing what you do best and you know what, and stop this pain.
Appreciate the review. It was honest if a bit brutal at times.
When the R18 was first revealed I was ready with my pocket book. As we all know it was slow to come out. Then pictures of the bagger started to show and piqued my interest. Since my dealer had no release dates I bought a new RT for what I expected would be a year wait. On the base R18 and R18 Classic came out the next year. Talk about a disappointment. Gorgeous and it was obvious no effort was spared in making it look good but sadly riding was not giving the same effort.
Yet I held out hope for the bagger even after sneak peaks showed a fixed windscreen. Then Cycle World dropped the bomb, they reveal EU filings and extrapolated the weight. Then it reached the press fleets and there was not a positive review to be found. Your comments on the software are in common with those who test rode it in August along with many riders having clutch issues where it either slipped or worse. Quite a few had heat issues which you did not because the time of year changed.
BMW simply spent too much effort making a bike which is to be looked at and admired but it wasn't built for people who ride. Dealers are suffering because so much effort went into producing a line of bikes they cannot sell and worse BMW shorted other bikes to make sure these came fully equipped. They were shipping RTs with TPMS and speakers!
Get the weight of the bagger closer to 800 rather than 900, put a real electronic suspension on it, and for god's sake put an adjustable windscreen on it. So my wait is over, I know now I will not be buying the R18 Bagger because it is not a motorcycle worth any money and I fully expect them to be heavily discounted and with hefty promotions within the year; just look what happened to the base model pricing and incentives. My dealer sold off two FE for less than 16k.
Your words sounded very considered and sincere ~ Great Review!
The R18 is an oddball in a class of great competitors. I don’t think anyone was asking for this bike.
Looked to upgrade my 21 R18 Classic for the B. Looked at the TC while at my dealer but neither really overly impressed me. Not that they were bad but nothing I need that my C didn’t provide. My only wish was the C had a bigger gas tank. Coming from a Road Glide, I found it to be just as cumbersome. The added weight from the faring takes away some of the maneuverability unlike the C.
Appreciate your honesty and clarity in the review. Great job from a BMW fan
Great review! A bike I have in my sight for the near future. Thanks for picking the stuff up you won’t with a 30 minute test ride, I’d be upset if I paid that money with all the new bike issues this one comes with. My wife and I test rode a Harley Ultra a few weeks ago and found the buffeting on the windscreen appalling. Up to 110km/h you’re OK, but after that, your teeth fillings start falling out😕 How does the queen bee version of the R18 compare? Haven’t ridden it yet
Picking up my R18 Bagger next week. You’ve probably saved me a whole lot of pain with the vibration tip. Staying in that Sweet-Spot of 2400 rpm. Have ordered my Bagger with the Transcontinental screen so hopefully better. That software problem with the App is a real bummer, hope it’s sorted soon. Regarding the weight, I’m trading in my Triumph Rocket Touring which is about the same weight. You do get used to it, even in town riding. Great review! Have given my 👍 and rang the bell 💪 p.s. Was getting all excited about next week, until that bit at the end about jumping from 3rd gear into neutral. I’ve heard about this twice now. The first time didn’t bother me too much, thought it was probably a rider error. But you mentioning it again! WTF BMW!!! Hope this isn’t going to be an issue going forward 🤔
Since 1 year has passed, have you been pleased with your R18B?
Extremely honest review my friend, thabj you. I will stick with my Ultra then...
Yeah Baby, that is the one I want. So subtle and understated that no one would even notice me sneaking through city traffic. With the removal of the silencing part of the mufflers I could pass unnoticed, weave and wheelstand to my heart's content.
you should have a million subscribers brother. Excellent review. Thank you for your hard work and honesty
I seriously considered one of these this past summer. I went with a Honda Gold Wing instead, but I keep thinking I made a mistake. What kept me from the R18 TC was the lack of a center stand, the fact the nav system does not work without a phone, and it must have premium fuel. The Gold Wing is lighter, has a stand alone nav system, runs on regular fuel, and available center stand, but the build quality lags behind the R18 TC. Most people do not have the luxury of taking a bike for a multi day test drive, hell you are lucky to get to take it for a spin around the block. I think I would have been more comfortable with my choice if I had been able to test ride both of them.
You made the right choice!
Fantastic review, exceptionally well done👍
Thank You so much for a really thorough review! Youre very honest, andx maybe all those glitches that you mentioned will inspire a complete sideshow of aftermarket bells and whistles in the very near future.
At the least, theyve done their homework on the fenders and all the stuff that really counts. That was my biggest complaint in the beginning when they first came out with this model. BMW listens and i thank them for that. They really do try to put out the best long distance cruising bike that American riders want . Personally, i never was a fan of batwing front ends, but a clever guy can get a cup of his best R&D department coffee and go to work and design something that we can all appreciate and live with! Again, Thank you Sir for the fine review on this motorcycle. I do particularly love this design.
Thoughtful review with tons of impressions positive and negative missed by other reviewers. Subbed!
I'm glad I found your video. I've been on the fence on an S1000XR or going all out for one of these. Hearing about the user experience you had convinced me to bias towards the XR. Thank you!
Best review about that bike on youtoube so far! Thanks a lot!
Great review! I don't prefer cruisers, but after I took my wife on a spin on this bike, her grin said it all. I am just waiting on the price from the dealer. Hard to argue with the tech on this bike and the fit and finish is stunning. I found it fun to ride. It's a heavy pounder and vibrates at high RPM. I needed to shift more and treat it like the bitch it is through the corners. It wants to stay upright but it's quick to flick if you need it. I am 1.9 meters tall and I was worried about leg room but it's fine.
21:30.. "pure unadulterated bliss".. I agree!!! An amazing sound!!
Would you please review the new K1600GTL?
Great review! Need to hear Dave’s opinion before I buy one!
I have an R18B and I have to say your review is pretty much right on the money. I like the bike a lot BUT there are things which make me wonder "what were they thinking?". The weight and vibration make a very bad first impression for any test rider. I did like the way the bike handled and rode but was intimidated by the weight and annoyed with the vibration. I was finally seduced by the promotion BMW was offering and bought the bike anyway. Glad I did but while this is a good bike, it could have been a great bike.
It would be pretty easy to 3d print a wedge to adjust the windshield.
You know what though I appreciate this review because you bring up amazing points that should be common sense that most people will still miss. Yes, why is the software glitchy? Why is the windscreen not adjustable? Why is there no Apple carplay? For that amount of money I don't want to be buying a fancy piece of glass that has nothing behind it.
Please please elaborate on the bomb shell you dropped in your first ride review that this bike went directly from 3rd to neutral! This would be a serious and potentially deadly flaw. Thanks, Rick
What an honest great review no bulls..t, Juhaptergee
good viedo ~How many tall you ? ^^
Very good, useful review. Thank you.
I really like your review. I own the r18 bagger.
My Samsung S21 fits with the case on and the TFT is flawless.
I know they had an update in fall off 2022.
I don't think they are apple friendly.. I also use Spotify and its perfect.
I hate the reviews that are just a test drive because you are correct in that it likes lower rpm.
It took me 3 days to operate the bike properly.
GREAT review. I have a few questions that you didn't cover. I have not seen anyone review the backrest and what is that strap coming out between the rider and passenger sections of the seat? Also curious about the difference in the ride between a Harley belt drive and the BMW shaft drive. Keep up the great work.
A terrific review. I appreciate your independence and objectivity.
I owned a R1200 CLC. I followed the R18 project from its inception.
I test rode the R18 First Edition (twice) and the Transcontinental (on a 96F day in Chicago.
I can't purchase the Transcontinental because of the: fixed wind screen, BMW's lousy navigation app, and a crazy kickstand which leaves me concerned that I failed to extend the kickstand and the bike is falling.
I have 50,000 milles on my 2013 K1600 GTL before trading that bike towards a 2021 Indian Challenger with lots of extras.
If BMW refined my complaints about the Continental then I might look at the bike again.
The best review so far. Thank you!
Great review. Thank you. Made me think twice about giving up my k1600 for it just yet
From my own, limited experience with the R18, I would suggest that anyone considering this bike test rides a K1600B or R1250RT. This helped me make my decision. I own a K1600B Grand America now. Best touring bike Ive ever experienced. And fast!
Congrats man👍🏼
I am thinking of getting the 2022 GA
How is it while cruising 140-160KM or 75-85 mph ? Is it stable and comfy ?
@@JUFFAIR101 When you get in some “dirty air” as they call it behind tractor trailers it gets a little unstable above 75 to 80 mph but other than that it’s stable and fast. Really fast! I purchased a kit to cover the gap where the trunk mounting bracket is on the back of the bike so you can essentially turn it into a bagger and having removed the trunk it feels more stable at highway speeds.
I won’t be swapping my R1250RT for this heavyweight with flaws. I think mine is the near perfect tourer. I moved away from heavy touring Harley’s as slow riding and manoeuvres were too risky for dropping. Very good review as always.
This is the first I've heard of the rev range being low and narrow. Good info, thanks. I am still interested in riding one.
I think it’s a cruiser thing. Harley’s and Indians are the same kind of range and this bike was built to compete with them.
Wow, i got a notification from your channel.
FINALLY Susan.
Great review as usual mate. Like yourself, this bike is not my style, but I'm sure a lot of riders would apprerciate the look and style that this bike projects. Stay safe.
hey buddy from South Africa 🇿🇦. You are so spot on with regard to how pathetic the software is on all BMWs.......I sold my RT, just becuase of all the frustrations experienced everyday, while I owned that bike.
In a nutshell, Nothing works like advertised or worked like it should.
And now they going to be putting this same system on the new K.
why can't BMW fix all this before releasing the bikes.
The RT is out over a year now, and still no solutions.
Then they put ACC on this bike (imo you don't need ACC on the R18), but no quickshifter and on the new K coming, they don't give you ACC. That's the range that needs ACC, it's a touring bike bmw.
Great! An engine that is supposed to rev to about 5000-6000rpm only really works between 2000 to 3000rpm...
i bought this bike used and i love it out of 5 bikes its the one i ride the most. you made all the points i agree with especially the apple play, but one thing i cant believe is they put a dry clutch on it! really!?! but i defently dont regret buying it especially half the price of new
Excellent review! Thank you!
I wish they had reduced the vibration at idle and offered more sound from exhaust. It’s the best handling and finest fit and finish bagger ever.
Fantastic vid Cool bike. At the moment I’ve got 2019 k1600ga witch I love but am currently thinking of swapping to the new one OR going for R18Trancontanetal, I am going to be test riding the r18 tomorrow when I have my bike evaluated. The problem I may face is I may like both 😂 but hopefully seeing a variant of a r18 and comparing it between mine will help also being able to ask the dealer questions as well will help.
excellent review thanks bro....
Beautifull bike - i will never buy one ( even if i get much richer :)). Nevertheless, the review is one of the best i' ve ever seen. Liked the music, the explanations , the images - everything is spot on! Very well done!
What a stunning looking bike, but I too would not wish to own one....Though I would happily have one on display in my conservatory...
Is the luggage removable though? Great review as usual, by the way…
Just watched this and I will give you my thoughts. I did about a 45 min test ride with highway and backroad mix. I am 6ft 4 in and the windshield is terrible for me with a lot of buffeting. I hated the heel - toe shifter and the seat was getting uncomfortable by the end of the ride. I thought the power was OK and the suspension and handling was far ahead of most cruisers. I do not like having my feet in front of me when riding but the seating position on the BMW was a little cramped. As for my background I am currently riding a 20 GSA and recently sold my Goldwing F6B which I had for 6 years and put 83,000 km on it. I did do a suspension upgrade and it transformed the bike. I have tested a Street Glide, a couple of models of Road Glide and recently an Indian Challenger. The Harleys are not even in the same league for handling and suspension. The Indian is on my list of possible cruisers. I will keep my GSA which is by far the the best bike overall out of all of the bikes I have owned. It is no. 24. I am looking for a second bike and after owning 2 Goldwings I am looking for something different in a big touring bike. Love you videos and look forward to the next one!
I just picked up a ‘21 GW DCT at the beginning of summer. I think the newest generation is quite a departure from the last gen.
@@jeremynachbar3205 My F6B with my suspension upgrades was a better handling bike then the new gen Goldwing. I have tested many of them. I hate that front end.
@@kirbybradley8734theoretically IF you were in favor of the new front end, would a suspension upgrade on the 18+ GW be considerable upgrade on a sub suspension upgraded at F6B GW?
@@AuRowe I don't understand what you are asking?
@@kirbybradley8734 you're saying to jeremy that the upgraded suspension on the f6b GW made it better than the new GW. Just curious if the new GW with the same upgrades on suspension you did to the F6B would make it favorabke (just theoeretically since now you're looking for something different than a GW in the big touring bike space)
Lane splits better than my RT1200! No fat arse bags on the back. Mass makes it incredibly stable at slow speeds.
Excellent review!
Great video with details 👍👍
Thank you for another insightful, honest review. I value your objectivity.
I test rode the R18 Transcontinental on a 96F summer day. The air-cooled engine overheated. A warning light instructed me to keep riding.
Deal breakers for me, after long-term ownership of a R1200CLC and a K1600 GTL, was the fixed windscreen, the kickstand which invited the 940 lbs motorcycle to tip over, and the lousy navigation system that was tied to my phone. I wished that the top case could be easily removed when not needed like the design on my GTL.
Excellent review.
Best review I’ve seen 🎉
For me there deal breaker is. I couldn't careless about the info system. I have yet to turn on the radio on my Grand America.
Gorgeous 😍
hmmmm, interesting verdict - in particular comparing it to your opinion on the Goldwing; I enjoyed the “non-cruiser” bits of the Honda a lot and couldn’t agree more to your findings; BMW seems out now …
Although the Indian Roadmaster or Challenger has adjustable windshield is a great option to have the BMW is different completely from other Tourers which ma ked it unique😊
Now they are selling for $14,500 with less than 2k miles on them. Must buy.....
Nice classic vintage BMW looks, but eish that thing is groot.
Dude: love your reviews! My feeling being an owner of an 2019 RT, potential bagger owners (USA) with take one look at the R18’s and run, not walk, to their closet Harley or Indian dealer and put their $ down on American Iron. They know they’ll hold their value better… cheers from MN USA.
Clearly you never test ride one.
@@duosable You're correct, but I would not turn down a chance to test-ride one since I am a beemer owner & a fan. There will always be a niche market for them, especially now dealers are selling them with steep discounts which make them attractive.
How wide is it? I live in California and lane split heavily with my 2018 1200RT.
What do people have against resting the filler cap on the pump while filling?
It's irritating...
@@LongWayHome why? you have to allow things to irritate you.
Bye! I have heard that the clutch does not seem suitable for a bike of this type. Did you perceive something strange?
have u done a review on an Indian Roadmaster bro ?
I have a 2013 K1600 GT and I went and road the Transcontinental. I like the looks, but for overall comfort, my 1600 is much better.
This is a great looking bike, but it will all revolve around the persons riding style.
OK, but can now Dave give us his impression on it?!?
So the handlebar switches light up at night?
Also, fuel gauge? And does it tell you what gear your in?
A new phone mount for BMWs is being revealed on video, 22NOV2021. May sort out the phone size issue.
Considering that It has a dry clutch, did you have any problem how it engages?
Good review
You want an Adventure/Touring buy the GS or GSA (not Panamerica). You want a Cruise, buy a Street Glide or the Road Glide (not the R18). That sums how most people think here in the US.
Good luck finding a Pan America to test ride much less buy. Or a new Glide for that matter.
Thanks!
Who leaves a bike in neutral on a side stand (unless you LIKE bikes falling over if parked on a downhill slope)?
BMW build a tourer and cruiser range to compete with Harley, who build an adventure bike to compete with BMW’s GS. Both good efforts, but unlikely to convert the core customers for each type of motorcycle. I am a Harley touring rider and I do struggle to understand who the target customer is for this BMW.
For somebody who want the best handling machine in this class. The handling is next level, and you won’t believe it before the test ride.
You should have more subs than TMF,, Great review.
You mentioned Aladins carpet at 2,400 rpm. If I keep the bike between 2k and 3k rpm, will I find the ride smooth? (I don't prefer hot rodding, high rpms and vibration)
Fantastic content, as always. I'm not a cruiser rider, but enjoyed your review all-the-same :)
Awesome
If the bike does take a nap, how hard is it to right?
Seems you'll be buying this bike purely on looks. BMW's own K1600 may be a "better" bike but if I wanted a European cruiser I'd choose the Gold Wing.
I do not understand why such large companies can't get the phone connectivity right, same goes for the GPS. Ducati screwed it up on the MS V4S with Sygic and BMW mopeds apparently went a similar route. Can they not stick their heads together with their respective automotive infotainment engineers? How hard can that be? Upsetting customers with petty crap engineering like this is very easy. The phone pockets are also a joke that somebody has to explain to me, what was their train of thought? Or better the lack of thinking?
Triumph’s system is a joke too for that matter.