In this video I ride and review the new 2022 BMW R18 B. BMW's latest variation of their R18 model line. Thanks to Euro Cycles of Tampa for loaning me this motorcycle.
Great review motor man. I went to my local dealer recently and put a sit down on that same bike. I'm 5' 6" and I can sit flat foot with my knees comfortably bent and have no trouble reaching the handlebars. Fully equipped it was priced at just over $28000 which puts it lower in price than a new Harley Davidson street glide and you don't have to pay the ridiculous surcharge and inflated price that the Harley Davidson dealers are charging. I see a new R18 B in my future.
Traded in my RNineT 2016 with 50000 miles for this bagger. Why? Because of everything that’s in this review. My I drive for work, with the exceptions of bad weather I needed something for long Interstate trips. Knowing the Boxer after owning the 1200, I would never switch to any other Manufacture, you know the two, I trust the engineer’s of Germany. All I can say it fits my needs, BMW has plenty styles to fit your needs, never been disappointed. Thanks for the review
The brakes are linked , when you apply the front brake the rearbrake is also activated . Also the heel and toe gear shift is adjustable to acount for boot size and placement .
You’re the second person I’ve ever heard it described as a “Visceral” feeling bike. I appreciate your perspective on the whole bike! I’d love to see you do some of your low speed drills on it!
I'm 1,85m (6'2") toll and riding position far from perfect for me. Last month I take r18 for test ride and after 3 hours I feel pain in my back. You have to be careful at low speed while filtering traffic because of huge reactive torque. Bike really leans left if you open throttle suddenly. But it looks great and sounds great.
Great review. Nice looking motorcycle. I wouldn't own it personally. But can see it having lot of interest from certain groups. Was the tanks full when u started out? 6.5 gallons? I have 5 gal fatbobs on my rigid. Most my friends like small tanks. I don't. I am in MT. Dora. Watching ur vids makes me run home and jump on mine for cruise thru Ocala National Forest. Beautiful. Been riding since I was 6. Like most who rode that long. Think u know everything. Have learned lot from your vid. I check tire pressure b4 I ride. Your vid on cornering big bikes very helpful. Know it has made me better rider. Will get your DVD soon. Thanks again Sir. Saw this last weekend in Leesburg a lot of people who need to watch all your vids. OMG was nerve racking driving down 441 toward Leesburg. 👍
Best review so far, you can hear how it sounds from the start, lots of nice description and details,I enjoyed it throw out , it sure gives me a lot to think about, thank you.
took one out on a test run today, exactly the same feeling with the foot controls, like trying to insert the toe of your boot inside a tin can to get at them. A few of us thought the rear suspension was stiff.
Thanks for the video Genaro. I've heard of complaints with the gear shifter. People with big feet have to or should reindex the shifter lever. The B and the Transcontinental have more rear suspension travel too. I think there are crash bar options. Again, thanks, I hope you're doing well.
I appreciate you putting your life in danger with wearing finger less gloves so you can bring us this video. I bet the people who complain about such thing also wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
Any comparisons with the R18s to Harley-Davidson is, in my opinion, quite appt. BMW is clearly vying to compete in this lucrative segment and kudos to BMW for building on their own heritage with the Big Boxer. Just like Honda did with the original GL1500 Valkyrie, BMW now has a halo bike which will be a success even if it only develops showroom foot traffic and sales for the rest of their line-up.
A very fair review of a motorcycle that needs a little familiarisation before its full potential can be realised. I too initially had problems placing my toes on gear shift and brake but that is now totally second nature. You didn't mention the reverse gear! :-) Thank you.
I love the look of the bike. If I was in the market for a new bagger, I would consider it. I've always wanted one thing about BMW though, I'd be afraid of dropping it and hurting the engine. Looks like the cylinders would take a beating if you dropped it unless you had crash bars. I've never had a BMW or road one though.
This bike is a faithful homage to the BMW R5 from the 1930s. I love these bikes but make sure to know the price of required scheduled maintenance. It ain't cheap.
The transcontinental has less vibrations than the Bagger version. I don't know why but it does. I test drove both of them and to me the Transcontinental was much more comfortable than the B. The only downside is the weight of that one which is closer to a panzer than to a motorcycle. Also for me as a K1600 owner these bikes seem underpowered :D.
It's a Cruiser, it's designed to make torque, not horsepower, and for Cruising. If you're not an old fart, or you're a hot dogger in the twisties, this bike isn't for you.
No no no. I was just messing around with Mike. He's just a parts guy. I wouldn't expect him to have been able to answer my questions about a new model. That's the salemans job or the sales manager to know the product. Since they were both busy I figured I would put Mike on the spot. Here's the sales manager giving me an in-depth presentation. So in depth I had to cut him short. ruclips.net/video/yfHqMiMIgVI/видео.html
The out-take with Mike the "parts guy" was clearly, for me anyway, tongue in check. That being I feel said your point is valid. I think having qualified mechanics and knowledgeable parts personel is quintessential to stress-free motorcycle ownership.
@@nelsonphilip4520 just to be clear, I do understand this was a joke in the video. I got that. Buy my post ended with - not just motorcycles. You outta see the incompetency at the kenworth “stealerships” it’s everywhere and in every industry.
That's a cool looking bagger 🏍️😎 and should sell well. I like the look of the dash with the chrome brake & clutch cylinders, rear bags, & fairing. That seat looks really comfy too. Hopefully the floorboards can be adjusted to allow for different feet size. Hows the parts guys who says it's got a BMW logo on the tank. What a hopeless parts guy who doesn't know stuff 🤣.
It's a heel shift when accelerating, easy to get used to. Brakes front and rear are synchronized. Pull the front brake lever and 70% goes to front, 30% goes to rear, without even touching the foot brake.
A friend life long BMW guy wanted cruiser so he rode this 1800. Then I said let’s ride a Harley. He’s now a road king guy , , thanks BMW for pushing another rider our way !. I rode 1800. I bet it doesn’t last as long is their previous cruiser lasted
Great review Jerry. As you already know I am a BMW enthusiast. Your comments about the difficulty to find the shifter and the rear brake (in addition to my own analysis of the heat dissipation of those massive cylinders) which are first concerns for safety, totally discourage me for going that style. If ever transition to a bagger cruiser would likely not be a boxer motorcycle. I test rode the 1800 in a sunny summer day. Too much roasting near my shins.
Nice review of this Beemer. I was wondering about the slow speed and maneuverability on this baby. You pretty much agree that the Harley with the shorter rake and length beat out the others. What's not to like about that? I think BMW did a great job designing this motor with the super torque and power. The buzz drove me crazy on their in line 4, but this sounds much more reasonable somehow. Love their bikes' quality and engineering. As for Mr. Parts man, I hope he educates himself on the accessory side of the house. Safe travels and say hello to your awesome wife Donna. Happy Thanksgiving.
Unfortunately, given the Boxster engine, you need to be the perfect size for this bike. You also like to sit in a straight up seating position. I’m 5’10” and this bike (I sometimes feel) was designed exclusively for me! I also ride with motorcycle sneakers, and because of my experience with Harley Davison, I feel right at home with the heel toe shifter…I actually prefer it. Given my size and the way I like to ride, this bike is without question, bar none, end of discussion, the best bike on planet freaking earth. The fit and finish is that of a jewelry box. In a word, outstanding. No, two words. Freaking outstanding.
May you one day run across one of your many fans who is riding a Honda VTX 1800 and lets you take her for a ride. What a 1800cc cruiser should look and ride like. Happy trails!
@@motorman857 Those two bikes and your better half are proof that you are a man of great taste then. On a scale of 1 to 10, where did those two bikes rate for you?
@@mr.solitude3352 When they came out, they were about the fastest cruisers you could buy. They were also much smoother than the Harleys of the day with the dual pin crank. Unfortunately, that dual pin crank made the motor sound like it has a miss. The lean angle also was very limited. Great highway bikes but a handful at low speeds unless you're as good as me.
@@motorman857 Still are in the top three cruisers acceleration-wise. Not a speed demon here, but I love to warp speed now and then. Nice to know you don't have to downshift to quickly pull away from a vehicle or truck on the highway. The torque is mighty in any gear. They still are smoother than most Harleys today, or so my fellow Harley riders agree on. No vibration at any speed or RPMs too. Nowhere near as skilled as you at slow speeds, but... you learn to accommodate a bike's assets, or lack thereof. Every bike has its pluses and minuses. It's a matter of riding a bike whose pluses outweigh its minuses. We just disagree on the engine's sound. With its stock pipe, I've grown very attached to the sound of the dual pin crank. Thanks for your labors of love on RUclips, sir. Happy trails !
Your legs are in position slightly rearward because your feet must stay back on the floor boards to accommodate for that motor. Standing still the bike looks good and it does have plenty of power. But a serious touring rig will be difficult to get that finite adjustability in seating position. Much better suited of the BMWs would be the K1600 Bagger and Grand America, along with the GTL. Now, onto Harley Davidson because you mentioned it. Arguably the nicest looking touring motorcycles, bar none. In a modern world full of plastic and tech, these bikes have managed to remain simplified. Fenders and other items made with real metal will timeless and classic. Paint is top shelf. Great comfortable geometry, a vast national and worldwide dealership network that many to reach out to host dealership gatherings and functions keeping together an incredible HOG family while having inspired a wonderful culture. Harley Davison’s are like a Timex watch. They keep on ticking. Ride safe and ride often.
I am 6'3" (size 14 shoes) and own the R18 TC, and have plenty of room for my legs and feet. It's far more comfortable than foot forward HDs on long trips (foot forward pushes your knees up and actually feels more cramped on the HD Ultra Limited. No need for back support, for example. It also gives more control for handling. It's a standard riding position. It "looks" like there isn't room, but it creates a more spirited riding position. It is tricky to extend my legs onto my highway pegs as I have to extend outwards and then overtop of the cylinders, but I can do it.
Poor Mike The Part Time Parts Guy. I guess he isn't really into the bikes themselves! I agree with you that I would study up on the bikes I sell parts for. Then would love to buy one of each! 🤣 😅😂
Well I am 6' 5" 290 lbs with size 13 feet and I suspect would have a rough time riding this bike. I do not think identifying as 5' 9" would make a difference. Guess I would need to pass on this model.
I’m 6’4” size 12 feet. Had no issue on any of the R18 models. The bagger, transcontinental and Classic have heel/toe shifters and floor boards stock. This can make it harder to do conventional up shifts than a peg but you can adjust the shifter up if desired. One of the ones I tried had shifter adjusted and I could easily do conventional up and down shifts with front shifter. Otherwise, easy enough to up shift with heel shifter. I found the R18 more comfortable than American cruisers like the Indian Springfield and Street glide.
Had a close look at these bikes yesterday. I couldn’t bend my hips and knees to even place on the pegs! Seat too low and pegs too far back (mid mount). Certainly not for me. (Not to mention the $40,000+ price tag!) 🙄
Bought one last month but keeping my Harley Davidson Sport Glide and 1200 Sportster. For the purchased price of a slightly used 2022 R18B there is much value for the money.
I'm really close to pulling the trigger on a R 18 B, and I plan on keeping my 2018 Twisted Cherry Sport Glide, too. It was my first Harley, and I think it's going to be hard to let go of it. Price of service on a BMW is very, very expensive, as are parts. Just wondering at 6' 5" how long I can ride this on a weekend before the legs get sore.
They actually have an option for highway pegs. It is in the accesory list but you have to install the cilinder crash bar first and after that the pegs which fit above the clinders.
was watching your demo ride of the BMW R 18. just a comment, i see your run in either 3rd or 4 gear, and the tack is up into the mid 3000 range, just wondering why ride at 50 mph in a lower gear?
That thing is not only ugly but the engine makes it look like putting forward controls for tall rider will be very difficult. If you do manage to find some it looks like you will be very uncomfortable
So the boxer engine spinning makes the bike tilt a little to the left. You've riden Goldwings. They also have boxer engines (6 cylinder instead of 2). Do Goldwings do the same thing? Curious.
NO! I was just messing with him. It's not his job to give a presentation on a new model. That's why I was asking him questions he would have no idea about. He was good enough to go along with my bit. The salesman was busy so I put Mike on the spot. Heres a salesman at Euro giving me a proper presentation. ruclips.net/video/yfHqMiMIgVI/видео.html
Jerry, the comment about HD or BMW in your classes makes perfect sense, and saves me from reaching up to you in a separate thread to ask. But since you brought it up? Do you have (or had before) or would be considering a RLP class for BMW riders? Do you have a video covering BMW riders? Feel free to reply directly here. I keep track of my RUclips comments and so I would come back to seek your answer. Thanks!
I took basic motorcycle school 2.5 days, on a BMW G 310 GS, and I am 6'5". It was a pretty nice fit. It would make a great school bike, with the 310 R version for shorter people. And a Yamaha TW200 for the short ladies.
I'm a fan of your channel...but....you should have been briefed before you rode. Don't go if the salesman doesn't have time to inform you of the bike your giving a review to. Personally, I don't like the bike. You cannot stretch out your leg unless you put the guards on where your leg sits above the engine. The left foot feels "locked" into place under the cylinder. I own a VTX 1300R and Indian Chieftain Classic, very comfortable bikes. This does not look comfortable.
Here is what I'll say: I have never been a Harley guy. I rode both those BMW bikes, and overall it was my own impression the Harley Street Glide (Special) was the one to buy, and so I did. It felt more solid to me, I too was having an issue with my foot under the box, and the gear shifter wasn't set properly. There was an odd clicking type sound at the clutch, and the bike just seemed more cheap feeling to me. Another thing was the ride modes. The rain mode was awful. The bike, and throttle were absolute mush. I didn't like it at all. Having said this, what I'm upset about is I gave up a LOT in technology between taking the Harley, and giving up the BMW. In the end, you have to make comparisons, and be willing to compromise on features based on what your senses tell you. I give BMW props for trying, and it's very close, but I still think Harley is the Cigar.
This is the "Harley" for the snob that doesn't want to ride a Harley, but actually wants to ride a Harley without calling it a Harley, and they don't want to seem cheap by getting a Suzuki or Yamaha.
I have this bike, I’m not a snob. Why does everthing need to be us vs. them? I love the looks, it rides great, awessome tech. It just a f-in motorcycle.
I own a BMW and am an old fa%t. I took the 18 out for a test and it did not sing to me. I do not dislike cruisers and if I wanted to own one, I would likely start with a Triumph Speedmaster. I think an 800+lb motorcycle is not for me.
Jerry .... Perhaps, (If you are GOOD), Donna will talk to Santa Claus for ya ....... "Fingers crossed" for you !!! Did you like this Bagger, or the BMW 1600 bagger that you tested earlier in the season ?? Curious about you opinion on the difference between them .... "THANKS"
Looks like Ride like a Nooby on the Beemmer. I gave up counting the missing gear changes. I had an earlier little 650 many years ago and came to despise the rocking of the bike when blipping the throttle in traffic. I'd have to pass on this beast. Thanks for the review.
I have a 08 , CVO, dyna super glide that I haven’t ridden in over 2 years . It’s been sitting under cover outdoors the entire time. I intend to have it picked up and serviced (has about 22k miles) before the start of the next riding season this coming spring. How concerned should I be about “dry rot” or other deterioration of the belt that drives the wheel? Is this just a visual inspection or “replace at interval” regardless of wear? Thanks for your input.
You shouldn't be to concerned really. Give it a good cleaning and visual inspection. Look for rips and tears, fraying and missing/damaged teeth. My 2009 Sporty has 83,000 miles on the original belt and it looks, tensions, and tracks just fine.
Great review motor man. I went to my local dealer recently and put a sit down on that same bike. I'm 5' 6" and I can sit flat foot with my knees comfortably bent and have no trouble reaching the handlebars. Fully equipped it was priced at just over $28000 which puts it lower in price than a new Harley Davidson street glide and you don't have to pay the ridiculous surcharge and inflated price that the Harley Davidson dealers are charging. I see a new R18 B in my future.
Traded in my RNineT 2016 with 50000 miles for this bagger. Why? Because of everything that’s in this review.
My I drive for work, with the exceptions of bad weather I needed something for long Interstate trips. Knowing the Boxer after owning the 1200, I would never switch to any other Manufacture, you know the two, I trust the engineer’s of Germany. All I can say it fits my needs, BMW has plenty styles to fit your needs, never been disappointed. Thanks for the review
How is the bike during winter?
I like to see your reviews. They are honest and in depth. I just got a 21 roadglide limited and it is great! Love the looks of the bmw
The brakes are linked , when you apply the front brake the rearbrake is also activated . Also the heel and toe gear shift is adjustable to acount for boot size and placement .
laughing out loud at the 3 touring modes "Rain, Touring and Blitzkrieg".. haha that was funny.. greetings from Germany!
You’re the second person I’ve ever heard it described as a “Visceral” feeling bike. I appreciate your perspective on the whole bike!
I’d love to see you do some of your low speed drills on it!
I'm 1,85m (6'2") toll and riding position far from perfect for me. Last month I take r18 for test ride and after 3 hours I feel pain in my back. You have to be careful at low speed while filtering traffic because of huge reactive torque. Bike really leans left if you open throttle suddenly. But it looks great and sounds great.
Do you experience back pain riding other motorcycles?
I just bought an R18 Transcontinental. I really like it and the level of attention to details and quality is of the highest level by BMW.
I’ve owned three Harley-Davidson motorcycles and loved all of them but it’s time to make the switch to something new and nostalgic!
I like the look of the BMW R18 B. 😎👍🇨🇦
I put 68000 miles on the R1200CL you talked about and it never left me stranded. Been coast to coast twice! I am not a fan of the R18.
I had a R80RT years ago. Loved it, but summer my feet would bake. I can't imagine how hot an 1800cc would be.
+1000
Semper Fidelis
Not so much really. In fact it is not so hot. I rode it at about 20 deg Celsus, it was not hot even in traffic.
Its not as hot as people think because the engine is so detuned and runs at such low rpm. I was surprised.
This motorcycle & the Yamaha eluder are the best looking baggers . The only ones I’m interested in. Thank you for this video.
Yeah, I like the Eluder's looks too. Many testers say it is a very comfortable bike to tour on.
Was waiting for this one. Thank you Jerry!
Well done presentation
Great review. Nice looking motorcycle. I wouldn't own it personally. But can see it having lot of interest from certain groups. Was the tanks full when u started out? 6.5 gallons? I have 5 gal fatbobs on my rigid. Most my friends like small tanks. I don't. I am in MT. Dora. Watching ur vids makes me run home and jump on mine for cruise thru Ocala National Forest. Beautiful. Been riding since I was 6. Like most who rode that long. Think u know everything. Have learned lot from your vid. I check tire pressure b4 I ride. Your vid on cornering big bikes very helpful. Know it has made me better rider. Will get your DVD soon. Thanks again Sir. Saw this last weekend in Leesburg a lot of people who need to watch all your vids. OMG was nerve racking driving down 441 toward Leesburg. 👍
I will never own a bike with fork mounted fairing, but I will say BMW did a lot better then their previous attempt at a 2 cylinder bagger.
Best review so far, you can hear how it sounds from the start, lots of nice description and details,I enjoyed it throw out , it sure gives me a lot to think about, thank you.
took one out on a test run today, exactly the same feeling with the foot controls, like trying to insert the toe of your boot inside a tin can to get at them. A few of us thought the rear suspension was stiff.
Thanks for the video Genaro. I've heard of complaints with the gear shifter. People with big feet have to or should reindex the shifter lever. The B and the Transcontinental have more rear suspension travel too. I think there are crash bar options. Again, thanks, I hope you're doing well.
Many thanks, greatly appreciated. Cheers Neil
Nvr buy a motorcycle without a dealer close by, a lesson i learned.
I appreciate you putting your life in danger with wearing finger less gloves so you can bring us this video. I bet the people who complain about such thing also wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
Yes and if they aren't wearing an air bag jacket and a 1200 dollar helmet they aren't really being safe.
@@motorman857 Just got me an Aerotech R# and getting the airbag... Sheesh!!!
That's funny brother
What a jerk
That's a nice looking bike!
Really should have an adjustable (powered) windshield. Surprised they skipped that feature.
Any comparisons with the R18s to Harley-Davidson is, in my opinion, quite appt. BMW is clearly vying to compete in this lucrative segment and kudos to BMW for building on their own heritage with the Big Boxer. Just like Honda did with the original GL1500 Valkyrie, BMW now has a halo bike which will be a success even if it only develops showroom foot traffic and sales for the rest of their line-up.
A very fair review of a motorcycle that needs a little familiarisation before its full potential can be realised. I too initially had problems placing my toes on gear shift and brake but that is now totally second nature. You didn't mention the reverse gear! :-) Thank you.
I love the look of the bike. If I was in the market for a new bagger, I would consider it. I've always wanted one thing about BMW though, I'd be afraid of dropping it and hurting the engine. Looks like the cylinders would take a beating if you dropped it unless you had crash bars. I've never had a BMW or road one though.
This bike is a faithful homage to the BMW R5 from the 1930s. I love these bikes but make sure to know the price of required scheduled maintenance. It ain't cheap.
The transcontinental has less vibrations than the Bagger version. I don't know why but it does. I test drove both of them and to me the Transcontinental was much more comfortable than the B. The only downside is the weight of that one which is closer to a panzer than to a motorcycle. Also for me as a K1600 owner these bikes seem underpowered :D.
It's a Cruiser, it's designed to make torque, not horsepower, and for Cruising. If you're not an old fart, or you're a hot dogger in the twisties, this bike isn't for you.
Jerry just exposed a huge problem, too many of “mikes” around. Incompetency with repair shops is off the charts. Not just motorcycles.
No no no. I was just messing around with Mike. He's just a parts guy. I wouldn't expect him to have been able to answer my questions about a new model. That's the salemans job or the sales manager to know the product. Since they were both busy I figured I would put Mike on the spot. Here's the sales manager giving me an in-depth presentation. So in depth I had to cut him short. ruclips.net/video/yfHqMiMIgVI/видео.html
The out-take with Mike the "parts guy" was clearly, for me anyway, tongue in check. That being I feel said your point is valid. I think having qualified mechanics and knowledgeable parts personel is quintessential to stress-free motorcycle ownership.
@@nelsonphilip4520 just to be clear, I do understand this was a joke in the video. I got that. Buy my post ended with - not just motorcycles. You outta see the incompetency at the kenworth “stealerships” it’s everywhere and in every industry.
Top loading saddlebags, 👍 that's a plus in my book.
That's a cool looking bagger 🏍️😎 and should sell well. I like the look of the dash with the chrome brake & clutch cylinders, rear bags, & fairing. That seat looks really comfy too. Hopefully the floorboards can be adjusted to allow for different feet size. Hows the parts guys who says it's got a BMW logo on the tank. What a hopeless parts guy who doesn't know stuff 🤣.
He was just kidding around and I was messin with him. There's no way a parts guy would know much about a new model they just got in.
Sounds like the shifter/ rest brake could be a problem for size 12's.
Satisfied with the old HD.
It's a heel shift when accelerating, easy to get used to. Brakes front and rear are synchronized. Pull the front brake lever and 70% goes to front, 30% goes to rear, without even touching the foot brake.
Thanks for the review Motorman.
A friend life long BMW guy wanted cruiser so he rode this 1800. Then I said let’s ride a Harley. He’s now a road king guy , , thanks BMW for pushing another rider our way !. I rode 1800. I bet it doesn’t last as long is their previous cruiser lasted
Always enjoy your in depth reviews and honest opinions. If you get a chance I'd like to see you try out a r1250rt and see what you think of it.
Mike's a good sport
Yes he is. That's why he let me do that bit with him. And that's why I was asking him questions I knew he would have no idea about.
Great review Jerry. As you already know I am a BMW enthusiast. Your comments about the difficulty to find the shifter and the rear brake (in addition to my own analysis of the heat dissipation of those massive cylinders) which are first concerns for safety, totally discourage me for going that style. If ever transition to a bagger cruiser would likely not be a boxer motorcycle. I test rode the 1800 in a sunny summer day. Too much roasting near my shins.
Nice review of this Beemer. I was wondering about the slow speed and maneuverability on this baby. You pretty much agree that the Harley with the shorter rake and length beat out the others. What's not to like about that? I think BMW did a great job designing this motor with the super torque and power. The buzz drove me crazy on their in line 4, but this sounds much more reasonable somehow. Love their bikes' quality and engineering. As for Mr. Parts man, I hope he educates himself on the accessory side of the house. Safe travels and say hello to your awesome wife Donna. Happy Thanksgiving.
A truly beautiful and magnificent piece of machinery and so much fun to ride
Put a couple of dreadlock extension on each side of that fairing and you have Predator
the exhaust on this version is way better looking than the ones on the base model
Unfortunately, given the Boxster engine, you need to be the perfect size for this bike. You also like to sit in a straight up seating position. I’m 5’10” and this bike (I sometimes feel) was designed exclusively for me! I also ride with motorcycle sneakers, and because of my experience with Harley Davison, I feel right at home with the heel toe shifter…I actually prefer it. Given my size and the way I like to ride, this bike is without question, bar none, end of discussion, the best bike on planet freaking earth. The fit and finish is that of a jewelry box. In a word, outstanding. No, two words. Freaking outstanding.
Stay hd excellent dealer network and accessories choices...
Hey Jerry. I just can’t take my eye off the 1250 GS Adventure in the side really looks great
Really? Check this link. ruclips.net/video/sryHgr3SHdk/видео.html
@@motorman857 🤣🤣 you the man Jerry love the sense of humor
May you one day run across one of your many fans who is riding a Honda VTX 1800 and lets you take her for a ride. What a 1800cc cruiser should look and ride like. Happy trails!
I've owned 2 Honda 1800 VTX's.
@@motorman857 Those two bikes and your better half are proof that you are a man of great taste then. On a scale of 1 to 10, where did those two bikes rate for you?
@@mr.solitude3352 When they came out, they were about the fastest cruisers you could buy. They were also much smoother than the Harleys of the day with the dual pin crank. Unfortunately, that dual pin crank made the motor sound like it has a miss. The lean angle also was very limited. Great highway bikes but a handful at low speeds unless you're as good as me.
@@motorman857 Still are in the top three cruisers acceleration-wise. Not a speed demon here, but I love to warp speed now and then. Nice to know you don't have to downshift to quickly pull away from a vehicle or truck on the highway. The torque is mighty in any gear.
They still are smoother than most Harleys today, or so my fellow Harley riders agree on. No vibration at any speed or RPMs too. Nowhere near as skilled as you at slow speeds, but... you learn to accommodate a bike's assets, or lack thereof. Every bike has its pluses and minuses. It's a matter of riding a bike whose pluses outweigh its minuses.
We just disagree on the engine's sound. With its stock pipe, I've grown very attached to the sound of the dual pin crank. Thanks for your labors of love on RUclips, sir. Happy trails !
Thanks Jerry I guess there’s a bike for every rider , but that’s not for me I will stay on my H-D
Your legs are in position slightly rearward because your feet must stay back on the floor boards to accommodate for that motor. Standing still the bike looks good and it does have plenty of power. But a serious touring rig will be difficult to get that finite adjustability in seating position. Much better suited of the BMWs would be the K1600 Bagger and Grand America, along with the GTL. Now, onto Harley Davidson because you mentioned it. Arguably the nicest looking touring motorcycles, bar none. In a modern world full of plastic and tech, these bikes have managed to remain simplified. Fenders and other items made with real metal will timeless and classic. Paint is top shelf. Great comfortable geometry, a vast national and worldwide dealership network that many to reach out to host dealership gatherings and functions keeping together an incredible HOG family while having inspired a wonderful culture. Harley Davison’s are like a Timex watch. They keep on ticking. Ride safe and ride often.
I am 6'3" (size 14 shoes) and own the R18 TC, and have plenty of room for my legs and feet. It's far more comfortable than foot forward HDs on long trips (foot forward pushes your knees up and actually feels more cramped on the HD Ultra Limited. No need for back support, for example. It also gives more control for handling. It's a standard riding position. It "looks" like there isn't room, but it creates a more spirited riding position. It is tricky to extend my legs onto my highway pegs as I have to extend outwards and then overtop of the cylinders, but I can do it.
Very unique design indeed and it Really grows on you. Love it.
Poor Mike The Part Time Parts Guy. I guess he isn't really into the bikes themselves! I agree with you that I would study up on the bikes I sell parts for. Then would love to buy one of each! 🤣 😅😂
Great review motor man 👍 I would like to take your riding class. Where are you located?
Spring Hill, FL...about 35 miles northwest of Tampa, www.ridelikeapro.com
2:30 I’m 5’7” though I identify as 6’2” 😂
Moto Gusi and Honda CXs do the same with the torque. I had a C X.
I sat on these bikes in the showroom.
I love the look but immediately saw the problem with foot placement.
Well I am 6' 5" 290 lbs with size 13 feet and I suspect would have a rough time riding this bike. I do not think identifying as 5' 9" would make a difference. Guess I would need to pass on this model.
I’m 6’4” size 12 feet. Had no issue on any of the R18 models. The bagger, transcontinental and Classic have heel/toe shifters and floor boards stock. This can make it harder to do conventional up shifts than a peg but you can adjust the shifter up if desired. One of the ones I tried had shifter adjusted and I could easily do conventional up and down shifts with front shifter. Otherwise, easy enough to up shift with heel shifter. I found the R18 more comfortable than American cruisers like the Indian Springfield and Street glide.
Had a close look at these bikes yesterday. I couldn’t bend my hips and knees to even place on the pegs! Seat too low and pegs too far back (mid mount). Certainly not for me. (Not to mention the $40,000+ price tag!) 🙄
$40K? The R18;s come in at around $25K- U.S. Similar HD Street Glide goes for at least $30K and they now have surcharges.
@@stevem2132 For the touring model in Australian dollars.
Harleys are just simple 2 work on, reasonable 2 rebuild 2
a 3 hole service is easy 2 do and fun.
I really like the fairing
Bought one last month but keeping my Harley Davidson Sport Glide and 1200 Sportster. For the purchased price of a slightly used 2022 R18B there is much value for the money.
I'm really close to pulling the trigger on a R 18 B, and I plan on keeping my 2018 Twisted Cherry Sport Glide, too. It was my first Harley, and I think it's going to be hard to let go of it. Price of service on a BMW is very, very expensive, as are parts. Just wondering at 6' 5" how long I can ride this on a weekend before the legs get sore.
@@feloniousmonk3049At 6 5 you'll hate this bike no legg room
I've had 3 BMW's they are good, but not enough dealers for me, thats why i left and went 2 hd. I prefer hd.
Just not digging this look…. its kinda retro future if that makes sense. wish HD would offer reverse with the RDRS …
you dont need to go under the gearshift lever. to shift up you must kick the back lever with your heels.
Great review, not seeing an option for Highway pegs, not sure how comfortable that would be
They actually have an option for highway pegs. It is in the accesory list but you have to install the cilinder crash bar first and after that the pegs which fit above the clinders.
@@vladalexandru5861 And that will put your legs so high up in the air that you'll feel like you're trying to deliver a baby.
@@jezuzfreek777 🤣 maybe they can offer a recline lever you reach down and pull, like on a Lay-Z-Boy.
@@jezuzfreek777 Just saying that they have this option not that is the most comfortable position :))
You know I like that boxer Motor! And I cheat when I take your class LOL
I had 3 BMW's not enough dealers and expensive services, i got tired of that went to harley, and I'm much happier. I'll stay hd...
was watching your demo ride of the BMW R 18. just a comment, i see your run in either 3rd or 4 gear, and the tack is up into the mid 3000 range, just wondering why ride at 50 mph in a lower gear?
Because when I shifted up it was lugging and lugging a new motor is bad for the bike.
@@motorman857 ahhh ok got you, i was just wondering
That thing is not only ugly but the engine makes it look like putting forward controls for tall rider will be very difficult. If you do manage to find some it looks like you will be very uncomfortable
From everything I've seen & read on the R18's is that if forward controls a/o hi-way pegs are your top priority than this isn't the model for you.
Nice bike, shame we couldn't be shown round it by the BMW guy. Lol. Ride safely 🤓 💙
Imagine the cost if it got dropped on the cylinders ?
Looks nice
So the boxer engine spinning makes the bike tilt a little to the left. You've riden Goldwings. They also have boxer engines (6 cylinder instead of 2). Do Goldwings do the same thing? Curious.
I’m looking on my iPhone but that thing looks ugly in an 80’s Windjammer kinda way!
Excellent commentary 👌 thx
Hey - you convinced me to stay to the end for full info but featured a uninformed counter clerk !!
NO! I was just messing with him. It's not his job to give a presentation on a new model. That's why I was asking him questions he would have no idea about. He was good enough to go along with my bit. The salesman was busy so I put Mike on the spot. Heres a salesman at Euro giving me a proper presentation. ruclips.net/video/yfHqMiMIgVI/видео.html
I've had lots of motorcycles and hd is best overall I've found...
Sonny Barger once said that the only reason he rode Harleys was because everybody else in the Hell's Angel's rode them.
I’ll stick with my road king.
Have you ever test rode any triumphs? Used to own a rocket 3....2300cc of pure fun
Motor man next time put it thru a figure 8 at parking lot , nice bike .
I’m an HD guy to the core but I wouldn’t mind riding this bike! I wouldn’t buy one but I’d totally be down to ride one for a weekend.
Great video...... thanks🙂👍
Thanks for watching!
Jerry, the comment about HD or BMW in your classes makes perfect sense, and saves me from reaching up to you in a separate thread to ask. But since you brought it up? Do you have (or had before) or would be considering a RLP class for BMW riders? Do you have a video covering BMW riders? Feel free to reply directly here. I keep track of my RUclips comments and so I would come back to seek your answer. Thanks!
I took basic motorcycle school 2.5 days, on a BMW G 310 GS, and I am 6'5". It was a pretty nice fit. It would make a great school bike, with the 310 R version for shorter people. And a Yamaha TW200 for the short ladies.
I'm a fan of your channel...but....you should have been briefed before you rode. Don't go if the salesman doesn't have time to inform you of the bike your giving a review to. Personally, I don't like the bike. You cannot stretch out your leg unless you put the guards on where your leg sits above the engine. The left foot feels "locked" into place under the cylinder. I own a VTX 1300R and Indian Chieftain Classic, very comfortable bikes. This does not look comfortable.
Thanks I'll make a not of your suggestion.
I identify as 6'-2" haha!👍👍👍
Jerry, just curious as to what brand of tires come with the bike.
Here is what I'll say: I have never been a Harley guy. I rode both those BMW bikes, and overall it was my own impression the Harley Street Glide (Special) was the one to buy, and so I did. It felt more solid to me, I too was having an issue with my foot under the box, and the gear shifter wasn't set properly. There was an odd clicking type sound at the clutch, and the bike just seemed more cheap feeling to me. Another thing was the ride modes. The rain mode was awful. The bike, and throttle were absolute mush. I didn't like it at all. Having said this, what I'm upset about is I gave up a LOT in technology between taking the Harley, and giving up the BMW. In the end, you have to make comparisons, and be willing to compromise on features based on what your senses tell you. I give BMW props for trying, and it's very close, but I still think Harley is the Cigar.
This is the "Harley" for the snob that doesn't want to ride a Harley, but actually wants to ride a Harley without calling it a Harley, and they don't want to seem cheap by getting a Suzuki or Yamaha.
Now that's funny. I don't care who ya are, that there's funny.
Good one. Deadly accurate. This bike has turned out to be a complete sales flop dealers can't give them away.
@@wrongthinker350 yea,,bmw has reduced the price of R18 here recently quite a bit. TRANSCONTINENTAL is on my brain at these low prices.
I have this bike, I’m not a snob. Why does everthing need to be us vs. them? I love the looks, it rides great, awessome tech. It just a f-in motorcycle.
@@nedbagno5286 because you can't take a joke, it makes me think you are a snob.
Jumps to left. Due to torque lots of it Normal
Thats gorgeous 😍 💕
What model was the 2003 underpowered BMW Jerry mentioned in this video?
Looks like R1200CL
R1200 CL
Haha ok... I wanted to make sure it wasn't my bike. 😆
I own a BMW and am an old fa%t. I took the 18 out for a test and it did not sing to me. I do not dislike cruisers and if I wanted to own one, I would likely start with a Triumph Speedmaster. I think an 800+lb motorcycle is not for me.
Jerry did u like the inline 6 or the boxer engine 🤔
The gauge on the right it the remaining power available "why" If you want to know about the bike don't ask the parts guy🤣
Wheelbase = rider height = optical illusion.
Jerry .... Perhaps, (If you are GOOD), Donna will talk to Santa Claus for ya ....... "Fingers crossed" for you !!! Did you like this Bagger, or the BMW 1600 bagger that you tested earlier in the season ?? Curious about you opinion on the difference between them .... "THANKS"
The 1600 bagger would be my choice.
I'm really interested in ur opinion on bmw, I'm a former bmw guy on a road king m8
I wouldn't buy one. First because service costs a fortune 2nd because I just don't like the styling.
Looks like Ride like a Nooby on the Beemmer. I gave up counting the missing gear changes. I had an earlier little 650 many years ago and came to despise the rocking of the bike when blipping the throttle in traffic. I'd have to pass on this beast. Thanks for the review.
I have a 08 , CVO, dyna super glide that I haven’t ridden in over 2 years . It’s been sitting under cover outdoors the entire time. I intend to have it picked up and serviced (has about 22k miles) before the start of the next riding season this coming spring. How concerned should I be about “dry rot” or other deterioration of the belt that drives the wheel? Is this just a visual inspection or “replace at interval” regardless of wear? Thanks for your input.
You shouldn't be to concerned really. Give it a good cleaning and visual inspection. Look for rips and tears, fraying and missing/damaged teeth. My 2009 Sporty has 83,000 miles on the original belt and it looks, tensions, and tracks just fine.
When you take the bike in for the service voice your concerns to the mechanic and tell him how long you've stored the bike.
@@motorman857 thanks for the advice.
The Kraut Glide.
Ooher, with looks like that it won't sell in England. Thank goodness for Harley.