The folks at BMW Motorrad have added two new variants to the R 18 range – the BMW R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B.
With the new R 18 Transcontinental, BMW Motorrad is adding a Grand American Tourer to the R 18 family as well as the R 18 B “Bagger”, which is particularly popular in the USA.
Newly developed engine
At the heart of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B is a 2-cylinder boxer engine, the “Big Boxer”, which is a completely newly development for the R 18 models.
The most powerful 2-cylinder flat twin engine ever built in motorbike series production boasts an engine capacity of 1,802 cc.
It generates an output of 91 hp at 4 750 rpm. In the 2,000 to 4,000 rpm range, it delivers more than 150 Nm of torque at all times.
Chassis
The chassis of the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B is a double-loop tube steel frame made of steel with a backbone of sheet metal formed parts.
Like the BMW R 5, the rear swinging arm, which is manufactured in a similar design, encloses the rear axle drive in the same style using bolted connections.
In order to achieve the best possible ride response even when riding with a pillion and fully loaded, the rear suspension strut features travel-dependent damping and automatic load compensation.
DCC and ACC as standard
The R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B are already equipped as standard with DCC electronic cruise control (Dynamic Cruise Control).
There is also the Active Cruise Control (ACC) which allows relaxed gliding with distance control – without the rider having to adjust the speed to the vehicle in front.
Where necessary, the cornering control system automatically reduces the speed, giving the rider the right speed for a comfortable and safe banking angle.
The new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B also feature a casual, so-called “mid-mounted footpeg” position of the footrests.
Comfort
The R 18 Transcontinental is equipped with an especially comfortable seat and seat heating as standard to ensure long-distance riding comfort even in two-person operation.
The cockpit, specially designed for the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B, with four analogue round instruments and a 10.25 inch TFT colour display.
In order to meet individual customer needs, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B also feature the three riding modes “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock” as standard.
The standard equipment also includes ASC (Automatic Stability Control), which ensures a high level of riding safety.
Engine drag torque control
In addition, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B are equipped with an engine drag torque control (MSR) as standard.
In addition to other options, a reversing aid makes manoeuvring a comfortable affair and the Hill Start Control function makes starting off uphill easy.
As standard, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B feature a sound system developed in collaboration with the British manufacturer Marshall, featuring 2-way speakers integrated into the front of the fairing.
First Edition
Right from the time of market launch, the new R 18 Transcontinental and R 18 B will be available worldwide as exclusive R 18 Transcontinental First Edition and R 18 B First Edition versions.
They combine the R 18 look with exclusive features in classic black paintwork with white double-lining. Further highlights are the specially designed surfaces (Chrome Package), high-grade stitching on the seat and the “First Edition” lettering.
Keyword: BMW R 18 Transcontinental, R 18 B Unveiled