Sadly, this dealership failed these riders during demo days. That may be what you get when you have a multiple brands under one roof. I actually have owned the R18 Classic. Same model as the one demoed in this video. I traded that in for the R1800B and LOVE it! Here are my experiences: 1. The cylinder heads are massive. BMW DOES make highway pegs for this bike. 2. The bike has three ride modes. I'm not sure if the dealer told you this. Rock, Roll, and Rain. The Rock mode provides the most exhilarating ride. Based on you initial reaction , I'm not sure you had it in Rock Mode. 3. Your demo bike had a heel / toe shifter. That is why your toe had to be "shoved" under to shift. The factory sets the height of these controls expecting riders to use heel / toe as designed. They can be adjusted. 4. The "heat" issue is a non issue for me. I have a Road Glide that puts off more heat than this bike. I have also ridden some Indian models that fry my legs as well. 5. My bike has the smoothest clutch of all the bikes I've had. Perhaps the demo bike was not adjusted? 6. The side-to-side torques twist is only noticeable at idle. When you get going, everything smoothes out. 7. The fit and finish on my bike has a premium feel. 8. My overall experience with the brand, dealership, and bike have been first class. 9. If you can find an exclusive BMW Motorcycle dealer, you may have a better demo experience. 10. To be fair, there are some quirky design and tech choices that the Germans have engineered. Each manufacture has their own way of designing. I have had several bikes in my life. Honda, Harley, BMW, Suzuki, and Kawasaki. My favorite bike is always the one I current own, LOL Thanks for the video. Ride safe.
100% agreed. A multi-brand dealership is a jack of all trades, master of none, and certainly did not represent BMW well in this instance. I own the 2022 R18TC and I LOVE IT!!! It's a bike meant for the open roads and NOT for stop-go urban traffic. If you're looking for stop-go, get something liquid-cooled. BMW makes highway "shelves", like Hacks mentioned, but you rest your calves on them and they mount a couple inches above the cylinders. Allows you to stretch your legs out and makes the ride substantially more comfortable. IMO, I wouldn't be going to an Indian dealership to buy a BMW, just like I wouldn't go to a BMW dealership to buy an Indian ;).
Could not agree more. I have owned over 40 bikes in my lifetime. The R18 B is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Hands-down. Bar none. End of discussion. Next subject.
I own the r18 b and I’m in my 70’s. Here is what I can tell you about this bike with 50+ years of motorcycle riding experience. BMW has built a beautiful cycle with top notch fit and finish. The riding position isn’t for everybody, if you have knee or hip problems it’s probably not for you. However if your in good shape this is a great riding position. I have naked bikes that are much more cramped but they preform really well in aggressive riding. Yes it’s heavy off the stand but so what, once moving it is very agile and the low center of gravity is a positive. The boxer engine is designed to ride much cooler than the competition by design, with air running over the cylinders. As for cost, the competition has gone crazy between 30000/50000 grand for a nice bike. In short if your healthy this could be the perfect bike for you.
Despite my good health I couldn’t get over the cramped position and lack of foot position options. Build quality is fantastic but unless you’re coming off a sport bike and into your first cruiser then I’m thinking the average American cruiser buyer is not going to fit it. If you’re 5’7” and looking for a local bar hopper I’d say go for it.
I’m not trying to criticize you but to ride a new bike for 20 min. Isn’t enough time to get accustom with the new bike. Many people get put off by bad reviews when in fact you might be doing a disservice to the r18 b. Lastly, you can buy right now for 10,000.00 less than the competition.
You are Exactly Right. This Guy is Clueless. I've been riding the R18B For a Year now I'm 52 years old and 5'10" and Love it, not cramped a bit. Had BMW Went the traditional route with a V-Twin this dork would be complaining about BMW Copying Harley or Indian. You are correct unwarranted reviews can hurt the sale of this wonderful machine.
Over the last 6 years I ve had a ZX 14 a Diavel and currently an R 18 . Each bike felt awkward and uncomfortable until a new muscle memory is formed . I have a 32 inch inseam and te R 18 is the first bike since I entered my mid fifties that is painless for my knees .
So I actually came to my R18 B by way of Indian. Loved my 19' Chieftain Limited, but it seemed like it was one mechanical issue after another with it. Recalls, premature parts wear and a never explained excessive oil consumption. Traded that for an FTR 1200 S. It was fun when it ran properly, but the excessively lean fuel mapping caused it to be extremely temperamental in anything but 75 degrees plus. Traded that for the R18 and so far no complaints. The biggest initial grip I had was the shit peg location, but you do get used to it.
The rest of the world never had any issue with not having forward controls. Most of the Japanese and European models have the "cramped" sitting position. Forward control only works with a proper backrest or the spine is going to give up before the knee does.
We’re all built differently and I guess you want what you want. I grew up on trail and dirt bikes but now that im older I like stretch out, and especially on a cruiser for longer trips, sorry, I just cant do this riding position. Plus the jugs are so friggin huge, you have ZERO adjustments
Brian, you are the third person who's driven these BMW's and came away with "What were they thinking" how can something so beautiful be so impractical? Just asking! Great video.
It’s a beautiful bike. Fit and finish is impressive. I had a very hard time getting the Intercontinental off the stand. Another swing and a miss for BMW to capture a share in the American market. That boxer motor is just not practical in this application. I predict a major sales flop here in the US.
I watched this review with some interest as I have just taken delivery of this exact same bike. The only difference is I had crash bars fitted and had the screen replaced with the one from the Transcontinental (it's higher). My previous bike was a 2008 Triumph Rocket Touring, also a big heavy bike. The Triumph is made for long tours, like sitting on a couch and is really comfortable. Yes, the R18 Bagger is a big change, especially in the riding position with the 90 degree leg position. But... You have to give it a chance, and your "first impression" ride didn't do the bike justice. It needs getting used to, and the shifter position is indeed somewhat difficult to adjust to in the beginning but once there, it's a pleasure to ride. No, I haven't ridden it in the summer yet, and I am curious to feel how those big cylinders feel when really hot. But I'm used to hot. The Rocket, with it's 2.3 litre three cylinder engine is a beast in the summer and standing in traffic jams on a hot day was a torture. But then, I never was someone to "go with the crowd". Nearly everyone who buys such bike goes for HD or Indian, two well established iconic brands and even I was really happy to see Indian make it's reappearance on the bike market back then. However, who wants to be "normal"... I also think the BMW won't do well on the US market, not because it's a bad bike, but because HD and Indian are fused into your mind-set. So, for anyone thinking of switching, try it, you might like it, but if you do try, give it an honest go of several hours. I did and absolutely love it ❤️ Oh, I'm 5'11" and about 120 pounds.
Sadly, there was/is no opportunity for us to spend a couple hours on the bike during a test ride. Dealer and demo truck rides are always guided and follow a standard route that gives you 15-20 minutes tops and never highway speeds. I’ll stipulate that this is a well made and engineered machine because it’s clearly beautiful with quality materials, my only issue is the rider position. Your point about brand loyalty with Americans has some merit however don’t be so quick to be dismissive about the value and quality of the HD and Indian brands. Yes, many buyers are loyalists and I have no problem with that, people like what they like and if that’s what you like, ride it. Many Indian riders are switching from HD and most of us face no small amount of ribbing from our HD buddies and we’re already considered mavericks or rebels (dare I say renegades LOL) for bucking the HD trend. Besides, in this day of overseas imports we also like supporting the home team and buying American made products is important to many, including myself. Lastly, I want to thank you for your clear and well considered post and watching our video. I hope you stick around watch some of our other content. Be safe and wishes for a healthy new year for you!
@@TwoIndians I didn't mean that HD or Indian are bad bikes and brand loyalty is positive. My point was simply that one cannot make an informed opinion when the time riding or allowed to ride is so short. Many comment on the same thing as you, however, and after spending more time on the bike, they all say the same, "It grows on you". Thanks for replying 👍
I'm happy you're thrilled with it and I don't see any reason why you wouldn't be. Did you see that Adam Sandoval is now working with BMW too? Pretty awesome I'd say. Look, we all have our opinions and thankfully we can voice them in a free and intelligent way. Be safe out there!
Well, that’s a fair assessment of an R 18 if you’ve never ridden a BMW, boxer motorcycle. I ride BMWs, primarily K bikes, but it’s the bike of choice for me due to the German engineering and handling. Sometimes it’s just what you’re accustomed to as opposed to the style and quality of the bike. whenever I ride American bike, I understand why they choose comfort over performance. However, I don’t feel comfortable in traffic, riding a couch.
My Challenger is hardly a couch and will smoke that R18 in every possible way. I’m super impressed by the BMW build quality but the mid controls and the jugs make it very uncomfortable and frankly riding a well engineered but cramped sled is not my idea of a good investment.
Never stalled mine and the engine runs cool so never had an issue with heat either, gearbox is smooth and precise and you can have different seats to either raise you or lower you so no leg cramp.
Great video and thank you for your honest opinion on this Beemer! I have only ridden a Beemer years ago that a friend loaned me when my bike was out of commission. It wasn't my cup of tea. I know I would not enjoy the riding position. As you said you're stuck behind those cylinders. I like forward controls and a relaxed riding stance. I'm just gonna stick with my old 2016 Scout till I can't ride anymore. Ride and stay safe down in FL!=)
Man that’s a shame YET a relief at the same time. It’s a remarkably beautiful machine, however, as you and others have commented, the operator function is quite limiting.
I wouldn’t call it excellent but it is what it is. We do have some better stuff out there if you get around to it. The travel videos are my favorite with the best editing.
Nice video, but why show you sitting on a R18 B when it's the R18 you "test"? And there's way too much footage of your nuts :-). Finally, I seriously recommend a longer test ride om the R18 B - the seat is higher than the R18/R18 Classic and you may even want to try the R18 Transcontinental, which has an even higher seat. I find the riding position excellent and prefer it over e.g. a Road Glide. Just my two cents.
Absolutely spot on again mate.. look pretty, but that's it.. similar to the Moto Guzzi. Engine sticking out the side ,, Yuk.. you probably know by now but there is about 4 or so minutes of black after your video. Anywho very upfront informative vid mate..
Hmmmmm….. cosmetically, the bike is beautiful. But I can see the difficulty with the riding position. Especially coming off an Indian or a Harley. In addition to my Harley Electra Glide, I own a Honda GoldWing GL-1800 which has a somewhat similar riding position, more like a sport-touring machine than a cruiser style bike, but the GoldWing position is comfortable for me. I am only 5’8”. I have heard of guys over 6’ that find the riding position on a GoldWing to be somewhat cramped. Overall… enjoyable review!
I wouldn't call this a review. A test ride sure but barely. No one that's looking for reviews on the bike will gain any knowledge watching this. Sorry man.
Point taken, but due to my high level of disappointment there seemed to be no point to continue. Not to mention the fact that there are countless detailed reviews available but I get what you’re saying
This is a beautiful machine… to look at not to ride. And the transcontinental with all the bags etc has no room. Speakers take most of the space. What were they thinking?! Indian and Harley don’t have to worry about the BMW competition. Thx for the review Brian.
You can't compare it with a V twin. I have a 17 Springfield and a 21 R 18. What ever RPM you run the thunder Stroke at the boxer likes about 1000 RPM more for the same gear. And yes it is a Boxer so you cant have forward controls. And it can't be called a Harley clone.
I don’t want it to be a Harley or a twin clone, I just wanted it to be a great bike and it wasn’t. Built well and impressive to look at, impractical for a long range cruiser. In my opinion. And apparently the trade press seems to agree.
Exactly, this whole bike is just a big mistake. You can’t have a cruiser for the average American rider that puts the floor boards in a mid position. Thanks for watching.
It’s such a rider specific platform with no flexibility and it’s funny to see people that bought them defend them to the death with no objectivity about those limits. Extremely well built but tragically limited to a tiny market. Evidence is BMWs marketing campaign paying influencers to ride them. Somehow I didn’t get the call LOL
Sorry but this is not a review. This is someone is complaining and already in love with his Springfield. If you are used to forward control and you did a lot of upgrades to your Springfield, don't expect to be familiar with R18 immediately. Yes there are few things needs to be made to make this bike better. Although, I am not sure if BMW will keep producing this bike in the next coming years. The American market won't accept this bike for sure.
Hey RB, thanks for your critique! I called it a “test ride and review” because it is exactly that, my ride and review. You may not like it and that’s fine but it’s the first opportunity I had to check it out even though there are a lot of more comprehensive reviews already done. I’m not a journalist, never claimed to be. Thanks for watching.
@@TwoIndians you're great man. I love all your videos. Don't get me wrong. I wish you spend more time on this bike with different riding modes. I took this bike for 2 rides. My first one was similar to what you said. After playing with the bike and get myself familiar with controls and riding position, my second ride was great. Cheers
Great man? LOL, my mom may have said that once or twice, can’t think of anyone else. 🤔😉 I wish we’d had more time with the bike but there were too many people waiting and not enough time.
This is soooo embarrassing. I also did a review. Dang near the EXACT same video. I was gonna release it over the weekend but... Now I don't even know..
Happens to the best of us. 😉 Bicasso is always saying the same thing to me. You should still publish yours because it will probably be better (funnier) than mine and besides, there were like 600 other review videos already posted on this bike. Which I found out after I shot my video
Well, I admire BMW for awesome bikes they are building and the quality is most often excellent. Built quality from the R 18 is outstanding. But that't it! Seating position is not cruiser like, cornering clearance with the floor boards is too less, the engine power is behind the Thunder Strokes and the low speed handling is also just in comparison to my beloved Indian Springfield pretty much behind the Indian. Price Tag here in Germany is the same as Indian and Harley. Saw till now in person in Germany just one or two, mostly the bikes are standing at the dealership with a coating of dust. BMWs cash cow is the GS 1250 and it's really a fantastic bike. The R 18 has IMHO not the basic constructive genes being successful, although it looks really awesome. I also doubt, Harley will be successful with its PanAmerica. Sometimes it can be the truth using an old German proverb: "Shoemaker stick to your last" ("Schuster, bleib bei Deinen Leisten"):-).
Agreed. I get a lot of flack for this video as you can see below from some people and it looks like Adam Sandoval has some kind of new partnership with BMW and Brandon Bicasso just posted on a video on it as well. His video was full of contradictions though so I can’t really tell how he feels.
Exactlly, the bike looks great, but that's it. It's very unconfortable, the seat height is way low, and the suspension si stiff Even un the "soft" setting.
My thoughts almost verbatim, heavy off the stand and cramped riding position! Maybe BMW should let Indian riders design their next attempt at an American cruiser. My heavier Roadmaster was not only lighter off the stand but considerably more agile. BMW could learn a lot from Indian on how to design a frame that performs!
What is it with these dealers doing 'demo days' and puttering around the city? My local Indian dealer did that last year too. I was stoked to get some of their bikes up on the highway, but they absolutely would not go above the 45 side street speed limit and I never even made it into top gear! They didn't get on the interstate that is literally a stone's throw from the dealer (it's on an access road). I don't get it.
Nice vid, A lot of reviewers have found you need to have a few days on them also I’ve found hear in the UK 🇬🇧 the opposite in cost compared to Harley-Davidson that a bmw transcontinental speced to what I like to a very near base equivalent harly that has not had many options ticked. The BMW is seriously 1000s cheeper and that’s on the road and taxed. Witch is Mad eg bmw spec to what I whant 29000 to the harly 32000 witch on a financial point is mad but it come down to taste and if you like the ride or not and what suites. I am looking forward to test ride I may stay on my grand America but if I like I may change.
Yeah finding the right bike is all it’s about really. Cost seems to fade away once you realize you have to like what you’re riding. Here in the states the cost is the same pretty much and the Indian bikes are just more comfortable for me. Yes the BMW is VERY well built but it just cannot compete at this price point. My complaints are not unique judging from comments of others here but it’s all subjective. Good luck on your hunt! 👍👍
You stalled because you were probably in rain or roll mode. Unfortunate that the dealer didn’t tell you. Throttle response is very different depending on the setting. I also hear complaints about the shifter. Unfortunately, that too is something that the dealer could fix. My first test ride I kept kicking the cylinder head. After a 2 second adjustment, it was perfect. Too bad you had a negative experience.
Typical German over engineering with zero additional value to show for it. I too was shocked at heavy they felt compared to my chieftain, yet were actually lighter
I have not driven one, but sat on them at the bike show in Southern CA. I am 6ft tall and my leg was bent at an acute angle to avoid being pressed into the cylinder head. I had it on my list of possible next bikes, but scratched it off based on the sit down. Nice looking machine and the engine looks wonderful sitting there, but I know I would not last more than 1 hour. Thanks for posting.
Well.. I guess this is a review.. sort of. It's pretty clear you started the ride with a set of expectations. Once you got on it.. the "review" was pretty much over. You don't like it, at all. Got it. Almost not worth posting a video over it.
You are 100% wrong, I had zero preconceived notions except for the cool fact that it has bucket full of torque and I was excited to ride and wanted to love it. I make no apology for my ride impressions because it’s how I feel about it and if you read the comments below you’ll see many that completely agree, and some that don’t. I think it’s a beautifully bike that has no business being used for its intended purpose. You may have one and love it, glad your happy
BMW needs to make a V Twin for this bike to salvage the whole project. It does look absolutely gorgeous in person but the engine is just wrong. I’m 6ft tall and in great shape and I had to heave twice to get it off the kick stand. Everything else about the bike is phenomenal, just the wrong engine. Since I work with a ton of engineers it was definitely over designed. If they made a V Twin version I’d have one in a heartbeat. I’d never own or ride a Harley, and it’s not the bike it’s just the 99.9% of morons that ride them I dislike. Indian is nice but I’ve ridden the challenger classic and it’s a nice bike but man…the heat on the right side of the engine is ridiculous almost unbearable in traffic. Then I waited for the challenger pursuit… well in Canada they want $45 thousand dollars for one, that’s just stupid money. I kept my Triumph Trophy SE paid $20K out the door and bought a Triumph Bonneville T120 gold line, paid $14,500. So my sports tourer beats the shit out of any cruiser on the highway for comfort and handling and power. My little Bonneville beats the crap out of the Indian scout for short trips for coffee and around town. Indian makes nice bikes but the prices are just stupid in Canada. Also the fact that our local Indian dealer has 3 bikes 😳😳 for sale in a brand new dealership that Indian forced them to build when they converted from Victory. I was hopeful for Indian… but in less than three years I’ve scrapped the idea of buying one because no motorcycle is worth $45 thousand dollars.
Sadly, this dealership failed these riders during demo days. That may be what you get when you have a multiple brands under one roof. I actually have owned the R18 Classic. Same model as the one demoed in this video. I traded that in for the R1800B and LOVE it! Here are my experiences:
1. The cylinder heads are massive. BMW DOES make highway pegs for this bike.
2. The bike has three ride modes. I'm not sure if the dealer told you this. Rock, Roll, and Rain. The Rock mode provides the most exhilarating ride. Based on you initial reaction , I'm not sure you had it in Rock Mode.
3. Your demo bike had a heel / toe shifter. That is why your toe had to be "shoved" under to shift. The factory sets the height of these controls expecting riders to use heel / toe as designed. They can be adjusted.
4. The "heat" issue is a non issue for me. I have a Road Glide that puts off more heat than this bike. I have also ridden some Indian models that fry my legs as well.
5. My bike has the smoothest clutch of all the bikes I've had. Perhaps the demo bike was not adjusted?
6. The side-to-side torques twist is only noticeable at idle. When you get going, everything smoothes out.
7. The fit and finish on my bike has a premium feel.
8. My overall experience with the brand, dealership, and bike have been first class.
9. If you can find an exclusive BMW Motorcycle dealer, you may have a better demo experience.
10. To be fair, there are some quirky design and tech choices that the Germans have engineered. Each manufacture has their own way of designing.
I have had several bikes in my life. Honda, Harley, BMW, Suzuki, and Kawasaki. My favorite bike is always the one I current own, LOL
Thanks for the video.
Ride safe.
Well said !!
Considering doing the same
I love my classic
100% agreed. A multi-brand dealership is a jack of all trades, master of none, and certainly did not represent BMW well in this instance. I own the 2022 R18TC and I LOVE IT!!! It's a bike meant for the open roads and NOT for stop-go urban traffic. If you're looking for stop-go, get something liquid-cooled.
BMW makes highway "shelves", like Hacks mentioned, but you rest your calves on them and they mount a couple inches above the cylinders. Allows you to stretch your legs out and makes the ride substantially more comfortable.
IMO, I wouldn't be going to an Indian dealership to buy a BMW, just like I wouldn't go to a BMW dealership to buy an Indian ;).
Could not agree more. I have owned over 40 bikes in my lifetime. The R18 B is by far the best bike I have ever owned. Hands-down. Bar none. End of discussion. Next subject.
I own the r18 b and I’m in my 70’s. Here is what I can tell you about this bike with 50+ years of motorcycle riding experience. BMW has built a beautiful cycle with top notch fit and finish. The riding position isn’t for everybody, if you have knee or hip problems it’s probably not for you. However if your in good shape this is a great riding position. I have naked bikes that are much more cramped but they preform really well in aggressive riding. Yes it’s heavy off the stand but so what, once moving it is very agile and the low center of gravity is a positive. The boxer engine is designed to ride much cooler than the competition by design, with air running over the cylinders. As for cost, the competition has gone crazy between 30000/50000 grand for a nice bike. In short if your healthy this could be the perfect bike for you.
Despite my good health I couldn’t get over the cramped position and lack of foot position options. Build quality is fantastic but unless you’re coming off a sport bike and into your first cruiser then I’m thinking the average American cruiser buyer is not going to fit it. If you’re 5’7” and looking for a local bar hopper I’d say go for it.
I’m not trying to criticize you but to ride a new bike for 20 min. Isn’t enough time to get accustom with the new bike. Many people get put off by bad reviews when in fact you might be doing a disservice to the r18 b. Lastly, you can buy right now for 10,000.00 less than the competition.
You are Exactly Right. This Guy is Clueless. I've been riding the R18B For a Year now I'm 52 years old and 5'10" and Love it, not cramped a bit. Had BMW Went the traditional route with a V-Twin this dork would be complaining about BMW Copying Harley or Indian. You are correct unwarranted reviews can hurt the sale of this wonderful machine.
Over the last 6 years I ve had a ZX 14 a Diavel and currently an R 18 . Each bike felt awkward and uncomfortable until a new muscle memory is formed . I have a 32 inch inseam and te R 18 is the first bike since I entered my mid fifties that is painless for my knees .
So I actually came to my R18 B by way of Indian. Loved my 19' Chieftain Limited, but it seemed like it was one mechanical issue after another with it. Recalls, premature parts wear and a never explained excessive oil consumption. Traded that for an FTR 1200 S. It was fun when it ran properly, but the excessively lean fuel mapping caused it to be extremely temperamental in anything but 75 degrees plus. Traded that for the R18 and so far no complaints. The biggest initial grip I had was the shit peg location, but you do get used to it.
The rest of the world never had any issue with not having forward controls. Most of the Japanese and European models have the "cramped" sitting position. Forward control only works with a proper backrest or the spine is going to give up before the knee does.
We’re all built differently and I guess you want what you want. I grew up on trail and dirt bikes but now that im older I like stretch out, and especially on a cruiser for longer trips, sorry, I just cant do this riding position. Plus the jugs are so friggin huge, you have ZERO adjustments
The last 4 minutes was the best part of the video. I agree with everything you did and said in that part.
Your German is good man. Thanks for the video. Was also sitting one that R18 and couldn't lift it up that easy like I'm doing with my Chieftain.
Brian, you are the third person who's driven these BMW's and came away with "What were they thinking" how can something so beautiful be so impractical? Just asking! Great video.
Great review. I too was extremely curious. To me it's eye pleasing. Guess I'll be keeping my Springfield.
It’s a beautiful bike. Fit and finish is impressive. I had a very hard time getting the Intercontinental off the stand. Another swing and a miss for BMW to capture a share in the American market. That boxer motor is just not practical in this application. I predict a major sales flop here in the US.
They are already starting to discount them. And offering .9 interest in financing. They just can’t sell these things
I watched this review with some interest as I have just taken delivery of this exact same bike. The only difference is I had crash bars fitted and had the screen replaced with the one from the Transcontinental (it's higher). My previous bike was a 2008 Triumph Rocket Touring, also a big heavy bike. The Triumph is made for long tours, like sitting on a couch and is really comfortable. Yes, the R18 Bagger is a big change, especially in the riding position with the 90 degree leg position. But... You have to give it a chance, and your "first impression" ride didn't do the bike justice. It needs getting used to, and the shifter position is indeed somewhat difficult to adjust to in the beginning but once there, it's a pleasure to ride. No, I haven't ridden it in the summer yet, and I am curious to feel how those big cylinders feel when really hot. But I'm used to hot. The Rocket, with it's 2.3 litre three cylinder engine is a beast in the summer and standing in traffic jams on a hot day was a torture. But then, I never was someone to "go with the crowd". Nearly everyone who buys such bike goes for HD or Indian, two well established iconic brands and even I was really happy to see Indian make it's reappearance on the bike market back then. However, who wants to be "normal"... I also think the BMW won't do well on the US market, not because it's a bad bike, but because HD and Indian are fused into your mind-set. So, for anyone thinking of switching, try it, you might like it, but if you do try, give it an honest go of several hours. I did and absolutely love it ❤️ Oh, I'm 5'11" and about 120 pounds.
Sadly, there was/is no opportunity for us to spend a couple hours on the bike during a test ride. Dealer and demo truck rides are always guided and follow a standard route that gives you 15-20 minutes tops and never highway speeds. I’ll stipulate that this is a well made and engineered machine because it’s clearly beautiful with quality materials, my only issue is the rider position. Your point about brand loyalty with Americans has some merit however don’t be so quick to be dismissive about the value and quality of the HD and Indian brands. Yes, many buyers are loyalists and I have no problem with that, people like what they like and if that’s what you like, ride it. Many Indian riders are switching from HD and most of us face no small amount of ribbing from our HD buddies and we’re already considered mavericks or rebels (dare I say renegades LOL) for bucking the HD trend. Besides, in this day of overseas imports we also like supporting the home team and buying American made products is important to many, including myself. Lastly, I want to thank you for your clear and well considered post and watching our video. I hope you stick around watch some of our other content. Be safe and wishes for a healthy new year for you!
@@TwoIndians I didn't mean that HD or Indian are bad bikes and brand loyalty is positive. My point was simply that one cannot make an informed opinion when the time riding or allowed to ride is so short. Many comment on the same thing as you, however, and after spending more time on the bike, they all say the same, "It grows on you". Thanks for replying 👍
I'm happy you're thrilled with it and I don't see any reason why you wouldn't be. Did you see that Adam Sandoval is now working with BMW too? Pretty awesome I'd say. Look, we all have our opinions and thankfully we can voice them in a free and intelligent way. Be safe out there!
Well, that’s a fair assessment of an R 18 if you’ve never ridden a BMW, boxer motorcycle. I ride BMWs, primarily K bikes, but it’s the bike of choice for me due to the German engineering and handling. Sometimes it’s just what you’re accustomed to as opposed to the style and quality of the bike. whenever I ride American bike, I understand why they choose comfort over performance. However, I don’t feel comfortable in traffic, riding a couch.
My Challenger is hardly a couch and will smoke that R18 in every possible way. I’m super impressed by the BMW build quality but the mid controls and the jugs make it very uncomfortable and frankly riding a well engineered but cramped sled is not my idea of a good investment.
Never stalled mine and the engine runs cool so never had an issue with heat either, gearbox is smooth and precise and you can have different seats to either raise you or lower you so no leg cramp.
My stall was just being completely unfamiliar with the bike
Great video and thank you for your honest opinion on this Beemer! I have only ridden a Beemer years ago that a friend loaned me when my bike was out of commission. It wasn't my cup of tea. I know I would not enjoy the riding position. As you said you're stuck behind those cylinders. I like forward controls and a relaxed riding stance. I'm just gonna stick with my old 2016 Scout till I can't ride anymore. Ride and stay safe down in FL!=)
Man that’s a shame YET a relief at the same time. It’s a remarkably beautiful machine, however, as you and others have commented, the operator function is quite limiting.
Excellent review! I just subscribed!
I wouldn’t call it excellent but it is what it is. We do have some better stuff out there if you get around to it. The travel videos are my favorite with the best editing.
@@TwoIndians No it was excellent!👍🏾😁
Nice video, but why show you sitting on a R18 B when it's the R18 you "test"? And there's way too much footage of your nuts :-). Finally, I seriously recommend a longer test ride om the R18 B - the seat is higher than the R18/R18 Classic and you may even want to try the R18 Transcontinental, which has an even higher seat. I find the riding position excellent and prefer it over e.g. a Road Glide. Just my two cents.
Beautiful video !! Love the Pat the Ninja cameo. That guy with the beard in the corner is kind of cute.
Absolutely spot on again mate.. look pretty, but that's it.. similar to the Moto Guzzi. Engine sticking out the side ,, Yuk.. you probably know by now but there is about 4 or so minutes of black after your video. Anywho very upfront informative vid mate..
Brian is a serious journalist. He's not JUST there to look pretty..
Hmmmmm….. cosmetically, the bike is beautiful. But I can see the difficulty with the riding position. Especially coming off an Indian or a Harley. In addition to my Harley Electra Glide, I own a Honda GoldWing GL-1800 which has a somewhat similar riding position, more like a sport-touring machine than a cruiser style bike, but the GoldWing position is comfortable for me. I am only 5’8”. I have heard of guys over 6’ that find the riding position on a GoldWing to be somewhat cramped.
Overall… enjoyable review!
I wouldn't call this a review. A test ride sure but barely. No one that's looking for reviews on the bike will gain any knowledge watching this. Sorry man.
Point taken, but due to my high level of disappointment there seemed to be no point to continue. Not to mention the fact that there are countless detailed reviews available but I get what you’re saying
Thanks for the review on this at least you can say you rode one and can give an honest assessment about it.
The R18’s are beautiful and magnificent pieces of machinery
They are beautiful and finely crafted. I’m just supremely disappointed with the ergonomics.
This is a beautiful machine… to look at not to ride. And the transcontinental with all the bags etc has no room. Speakers take most of the space. What were they thinking?! Indian and Harley don’t have to worry about the BMW competition.
Thx for the review Brian.
You can't compare it with a V twin. I have a 17 Springfield and a 21 R 18. What ever RPM you run the thunder Stroke at the boxer likes about 1000 RPM more for the same gear. And yes it is a Boxer so you cant have forward controls. And it can't be called a Harley clone.
I don’t want it to be a Harley or a twin clone, I just wanted it to be a great bike and it wasn’t. Built well and impressive to look at, impractical for a long range cruiser. In my opinion. And apparently the trade press seems to agree.
I haven't ridden on one, but that cramped riding position doesn't look like it should be on a cruiser or touring bike.
Exactly, this whole bike is just a big mistake. You can’t have a cruiser for the average American rider that puts the floor boards in a mid position. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for the video! always wanted to know if someone thought the same I did! It looks great. however they failed to get the ergonomic part of riding
It’s such a rider specific platform with no flexibility and it’s funny to see people that bought them defend them to the death with no objectivity about those limits. Extremely well built but tragically limited to a tiny market. Evidence is BMWs marketing campaign paying influencers to ride them. Somehow I didn’t get the call LOL
My thoughts exactly! The new BMW cruisers are works of art but the riding position is painful! Das a good review but I also say Nein to BMW!
Thanks Rob! Hope you enjoyed the video at least hahaha
Great review mate, revzilla do a good one too. Funny as
Honestly the K1600B is the best bmw cruiser..
No argument here!
@@TwoIndians 😀
Sorry but this is not a review. This is someone is complaining and already in love with his Springfield. If you are used to forward control and you did a lot of upgrades to your Springfield, don't expect to be familiar with R18 immediately. Yes there are few things needs to be made to make this bike better. Although, I am not sure if BMW will keep producing this bike in the next coming years. The American market won't accept this bike for sure.
Hey RB, thanks for your critique! I called it a “test ride and review” because it is exactly that, my ride and review. You may not like it and that’s fine but it’s the first opportunity I had to check it out even though there are a lot of more comprehensive reviews already done. I’m not a journalist, never claimed to be. Thanks for watching.
@@TwoIndians you're great man. I love all your videos. Don't get me wrong. I wish you spend more time on this bike with different riding modes. I took this bike for 2 rides. My first one was similar to what you said. After playing with the bike and get myself familiar with controls and riding position, my second ride was great. Cheers
Great man? LOL, my mom may have said that once or twice, can’t think of anyone else. 🤔😉 I wish we’d had more time with the bike but there were too many people waiting and not enough time.
@@TwoIndians I hate demo days. Best thing to schedule personal test ride and I am sure your experience will be better.
I think you nailed it. You’re not cultured enough.
Loud and proud
@@TwoIndians …clearly…
This is soooo embarrassing.
I also did a review. Dang near the EXACT same video. I was gonna release it over the weekend but...
Now I don't even know..
Happens to the best of us. 😉 Bicasso is always saying the same thing to me. You should still publish yours because it will probably be better (funnier) than mine and besides, there were like 600 other review videos already posted on this bike. Which I found out after I shot my video
What is the German for not a curser, fantastic intro "Then you showed the BMW🤭"
Well, I admire BMW for awesome bikes they are building and the quality is most often excellent. Built quality from the R 18 is outstanding. But that't it! Seating position is not cruiser like, cornering clearance with the floor boards is too less, the engine power is behind the Thunder Strokes and the low speed handling is also just in comparison to my beloved Indian Springfield pretty much behind the Indian. Price Tag here in Germany is the same as Indian and Harley. Saw till now in person in Germany just one or two, mostly the bikes are standing at the dealership with a coating of dust. BMWs cash cow is the GS 1250 and it's really a fantastic bike. The R 18 has IMHO not the basic constructive genes being successful, although it looks really awesome. I also doubt, Harley will be successful with its PanAmerica. Sometimes it can be the truth using an old German proverb: "Shoemaker stick to your last" ("Schuster, bleib bei Deinen Leisten"):-).
Agreed. I get a lot of flack for this video as you can see below from some people and it looks like Adam Sandoval has some kind of new partnership with BMW and Brandon Bicasso just posted on a video on it as well. His video was full of contradictions though so I can’t really tell how he feels.
Beautiful bike but I agree on the riding position.
The bulging engine is a bit...strange.
It‘s beautyful
Exactlly, the bike looks great, but that's it.
It's very unconfortable, the seat height is way low, and the suspension si stiff Even un the "soft" setting.
My thoughts almost verbatim, heavy off the stand and cramped riding position! Maybe BMW should let Indian riders design their next attempt at an American cruiser. My heavier Roadmaster was not only lighter off the stand but considerably more agile. BMW could learn a lot from Indian on how to design a frame that performs!
What is it with these dealers doing 'demo days' and puttering around the city? My local Indian dealer did that last year too. I was stoked to get some of their bikes up on the highway, but they absolutely would not go above the 45 side street speed limit and I never even made it into top gear! They didn't get on the interstate that is literally a stone's throw from the dealer (it's on an access road). I don't get it.
100% agree. How can anyone make such a big buying decision when experiencing only 10% of a products value.
Nice vid, A lot of reviewers have found you need to have a few days on them also I’ve found hear in the UK 🇬🇧 the opposite in cost compared to Harley-Davidson that a bmw transcontinental speced to what I like to a very near base equivalent harly that has not had many options ticked. The BMW is seriously 1000s cheeper and that’s on the road and taxed. Witch is Mad eg bmw spec to what I whant 29000 to the harly 32000 witch on a financial point is mad but it come down to taste and if you like the ride or not and what suites. I am looking forward to test ride I may stay on my grand America but if I like I may change.
Yeah finding the right bike is all it’s about really. Cost seems to fade away once you realize you have to like what you’re riding. Here in the states the cost is the same pretty much and the Indian bikes are just more comfortable for me. Yes the BMW is VERY well built but it just cannot compete at this price point. My complaints are not unique judging from comments of others here but it’s all subjective. Good luck on your hunt! 👍👍
Hey……. 7:50 it gets dark. Don’t the headlights work?
😎
Yeah, my fault. I screwed up.
@@TwoIndians lol, just teasing buddy.
Compare your Springfield to a Triumph Rocket, lol.
What’s so funny? I wasn’t comparing my Springfield to the Bimmer, I was just trying it on. Yes the R3 has an amazing power plant.
Looks cool but like u said the practicality isn't there.
I still think the engine looks like a vacuum cleaner from the 1950's...
Hahaha, no doubt! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
You stalled because you were probably in rain or roll mode. Unfortunate that the dealer didn’t tell you. Throttle response is very different depending on the setting.
I also hear complaints about the shifter. Unfortunately, that too is something that the dealer could fix. My first test ride I kept kicking the cylinder head. After a 2 second adjustment, it was perfect.
Too bad you had a negative experience.
Typical German over engineering with zero additional value to show for it. I too was shocked at heavy they felt compared to my chieftain, yet were actually lighter
Nice review.
Thanks for sharing
Not for me either 👍
Maybe… sit back
I have not driven one, but sat on them at the bike show in Southern CA. I am 6ft tall and my leg was bent at an acute angle to avoid being pressed into the cylinder head. I had it on my list of possible next bikes, but scratched it off based on the sit down. Nice looking machine and the engine looks wonderful sitting there, but I know I would not last more than 1 hour. Thanks for posting.
👍❤️🙏🔥
I think this video is totally biased!
Well.. I guess this is a review.. sort of. It's pretty clear you started the ride with a set of expectations.
Once you got on it.. the "review" was pretty much over. You don't like it, at all. Got it.
Almost not worth posting a video over it.
You are 100% wrong, I had zero preconceived notions except for the cool fact that it has bucket full of torque and I was excited to ride and wanted to love it. I make no apology for my ride impressions because it’s how I feel about it and if you read the comments below you’ll see many that completely agree, and some that don’t. I think it’s a beautifully bike that has no business being used for its intended purpose. You may have one and love it, glad your happy
Yup! I 100% agree. This will be a big massive flop! I personally think it's ugly.
I bought one and LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
BMW needs to make a V Twin for this bike to salvage the whole project. It does look absolutely gorgeous in person but the engine is just wrong. I’m 6ft tall and in great shape and I had to heave twice to get it off the kick stand. Everything else about the bike is phenomenal, just the wrong engine. Since I work with a ton of engineers it was definitely over designed. If they made a V Twin version I’d have one in a heartbeat. I’d never own or ride a Harley, and it’s not the bike it’s just the 99.9% of morons that ride them I dislike. Indian is nice but I’ve ridden the challenger classic and it’s a nice bike but man…the heat on the right side of the engine is ridiculous almost unbearable in traffic. Then I waited for the challenger pursuit… well in Canada they want $45 thousand dollars for one, that’s just stupid money. I kept my Triumph Trophy SE paid $20K out the door and bought a Triumph Bonneville T120 gold line, paid $14,500. So my sports tourer beats the shit out of any cruiser on the highway for comfort and handling and power. My little Bonneville beats the crap out of the Indian scout for short trips for coffee and around town. Indian makes nice bikes but the prices are just stupid in Canada. Also the fact that our local Indian dealer has 3 bikes 😳😳 for sale in a brand new dealership that Indian forced them to build when they converted from Victory. I was hopeful for Indian… but in less than three years I’ve scrapped the idea of buying one because no motorcycle is worth $45 thousand dollars.
Thankfully in the states we don’t have the same issues you’re experiencing. Enjoy those Triumphs, they’re great bikes!
Had they made a V-Twin for this Bike This Guy would be complaining about that also. They copied Harley or Indian. This dork sounds like a whiner.