BMW R 18 TRANSCONTINENTAL OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE
At the heart of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental lies a powerhouse that sets it apart in cruisers. The motorcycle is equipped with a massive 1,802 cc air/oil-cooled twin-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine, the most potent BMW Boxer engine ever produced. This engineering marvel delivers an impressive 67 kW at 4,750 rpm, ensuring riders have ample power for city cruising and highway touring. What truly distinguishes the R 18 Transcontinental’s performance is its torque delivery. The engine produces a maximum torque of 158 Nm at 3,000 rpm, with a remarkably flat torque curve that provides over 149 Nm between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.
This translates to effortless acceleration and smooth power delivery across various speeds, making it ideal for long-distance touring. The power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox housed in a separate transmission housing, coupled with a cardan shaft drive. This drivetrain configuration not only provides smooth and reliable power delivery but also adds to the classic aesthetic of the motorcycle.
Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the R 18 Transcontinental’s ability to reach a top speed of 178km/h, making it more than capable of highway cruising. The bike runs on super unleaded fuel with a maximum of 15% ethanol (E15). This ensures compatibility with various fuel grades available across India.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
Fuel efficiency is crucial for touring motorcycles, and the BMW R 18 Transcontinental delivers respectable figures in this department. According to several sources, including tests conducted by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the R 18 Transcontinental boasts a claimed mileage of approximately 17.24 kmpl under ideal conditions. This figure places it slightly below the category average of 18.41 kmpl for similar cruiser bikes but still within a competitive range.
It’s worth noting that real-world conditions may yield somewhat different results, with some sources suggesting a more conservative estimate of around 15 kmpl. However, these figures still translate to impressive range capabilities, especially considering the bike’s substantial fuel tank capacity of 24 litres.
Based on the claimed mileage of 17.24 kmpl, riders can expect to cover up to approximately 408 kilometres on a full tank under ideal conditions. This range makes the R 18 Transcontinental well-suited for long-distance touring, allowing riders to cover significant distances between fuel stops.
FEATURE AND TECHNOLOGY
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental has various features that enhance comfort and functionality, making it a top choice for luxury touring enthusiasts in India. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this premium cruiser offers:
- Heated seats and grips provide warmth during more extraordinary rides, ensuring rider comfort in various weather conditions.
- A hill start control feature and reverse gear make manoeuvring this large cruiser easier, especially in tight spaces or on inclines.
- Cruise control comes standard, reducing fatigue during long highway stretches.
- The central locking system adds a layer of security and convenience for the rider.
- A large TFT display serves as the bike’s command centre, offering visibility of all essential information.
- Smartphone connectivity allows riders to stay connected on the go, with easy access to navigation, music, and communication features.
- The onboard infotainment system with speakers provides entertainment during long rides.
- LED illumination throughout the bike, including adaptive headlights and LED fog lamps, ensures excellent visibility in all conditions.
- Dynamic engine brake control and automatic stability control systems enhance the bike’s safety profile.
- The dual-channel ABS and steering stabiliser improve stability and braking performance.
- The R 18 Transcontinental features a majestic design with massive bodywork, including a bat fairing and hard case panniers for ample storage.
- A pillion backrest with a top box adds comfort for the passenger and increases luggage capacity.
- The large bubble windscreen provides excellent wind protection for long-distance touring.
- Abundant chrome elements contribute to the classic cruiser look, paying homage to BMW’s heritage.
- The shaft drive system ensures smooth power delivery and low maintenance.
- With a top speed of 189 km/h, the R 18 Transcontinental is well-equipped for highway cruising.
These features collectively make the BMW R 18 Transcontinental a well-rounded motorcycle, offering a perfect blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology suitable for discerning riders in India who value both style and substance in their touring experiences.
BMW R 18 TRANSCONTINENTAL BUILD QUALITY
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental stands as a testament to BMW Motorrad’s commitment to exceptional build quality and the use of premium materials. This commitment is evident in every aspect of the motorcycle’s construction, from its robust frame to the most minor details of its finish. The foundation of the R 18 Transcontinental is its double-loop steel frame with bolted beams.
This frame is engineered to provide excellent stability and handling characteristics, which are crucial for a motorcycle designed for long-distance touring. The frame’s construction ensures it can support riders and passengers comfortably over extended journeys while minimising vibrations and flexing.
BMW’s attention to detail is evident in the R 18 Transcontinental’s fit and finish. The bike’s exterior is adorned with luxurious bodywork and chrome accents, contributing to its imposing and elegant look. High-quality materials in the bodywork ensure durability and a premium feel expected from a motorcycle in this class. The integration of modern technology with classic design elements is seamless.
HANDLING
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental offers impressive handling characteristics, especially considering its size and weight. The motorcycle features a modified frame with additional reinforcements and a revised steering head angle, which enhances low-speed manoeuvrability. This design choice is particularly beneficial when navigating city traffic or tight spaces.
The bike’s suspension system plays a crucial role in its handling capabilities. It comes equipped with an auto-levelling rear mono-shock and 4.7 inches of travel both at the front and rear. This setup provides better cornering clearance and contributes to overall ride comfort. The suspension does an admirable job of managing road irregularities, ensuring a stable and controlled ride.
While the R 18 Transcontinental weighs a substantial 427 kg (kerb weight), the weight distribution is well-managed. The low centre of gravity helps maintain balance and stability once the bike is in motion, thanks to the flat twin engine. However, it’s worth noting that the weight can be noticeable when manoeuvring at very low speeds or when the bike is stationary.
Regarding cornering, the R 18 Transcontinental performs surprisingly well for a motorcycle of its size. The bike remains stable through turns, inspiring confidence in the rider. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the floorboards, which can limit lean angles in more aggressive cornering scenarios.
COMFORT
Comfort is a key focus of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring. The bike’s ergonomics are designed with rider comfort in mind, featuring a low seat height of 740 mm. This low seat height allows riders to easily plant their feet firmly on the ground, enhancing confidence and control, especially during stops. The seating position is optimised for extended periods in the saddle, which is crucial for those embarking on long journeys.
While some riders might initially find the placement of foot controls slightly awkward, most adapt quickly to the ergonomics. Wind protection is another area where the R 18 Transcontinental excels. The large fairing and windscreen shield significantly from wind buffeting, enhancing rider comfort during highway cruising. Additionally, the bike features adjustable wind deflectors, allowing riders to fine-tune airflow and reduce turbulence according to their preferences.
The suspension setup, while firm enough to ensure stability in corners, can occasionally feel harsh on particularly rough road surfaces. Despite this, the overall ride quality remains comfortable for long-distance touring, with the ergonomics and seat design supporting extended riding sessions.
The R 18 Transcontinental has various advanced features to enhance comfort and convenience. These include Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC), optional Active Cruise Control, and a large TFT display for easy access to information and settings. Including Bluetooth connectivity and an onboard computer adds to the overall touring experience, allowing riders to stay connected and informed throughout their journey.
BMW R 18 TRANSCONTINENTAL STYLING
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental boasts a striking design that blends classic cruiser elements with modern touches. The bike’s styling is characterised by its imposing presence. It features a large front fairing that adds to its visual appeal and serves a functional purpose in providing wind protection. Chrome accents are generously used throughout the motorcycle, adding a touch of luxury and harking back to classic cruiser designs.
The iconic boxer engine is prominently displayed, serving as a central design element that showcases BMW’s heritage and engineering prowess. The overall silhouette of the R 18 Transcontinental is designed to evoke a sense of power and long-distance touring capability. Its flowing lines, from the front fairing to the spacious saddlebags, create a cohesive and visually appealing package that turns heads on the road.
COLOR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental is available in India in a standard variant, offering riders a well-equipped base model. When it comes to colour options, BMW provides a diverse palette to suit various tastes:
- Option 719 Mineral White Metallic
- Gravity Blue Metallic
- Black Storm Metallic
- Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titan Silver 2 Metallic
- Manhattan Metallic Matte
These colour options allow riders to choose a finish that best reflects their style, ranging from classic and understated to more eye-catching and unique combinations.
VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING
Despite its premium features, the R 18 Transcontinental is competitively priced at Rs ₹ 32,50,000 (Ex-Showroom) within its segment. It offers a more affordable entry point into ultra-luxury touring motorcycles than some of its rivals. The powerful 1,802 cc engine provides excellent performance metrics comparable to or exceeding those of its competitors, justifying its price point.
The comprehensive list of standard features, including advanced safety systems, comfort enhancements, and cutting-edge technology, adds significant value to the package. The BMW brand carries a premium image in India, which can be seen as added value for those who appreciate the marque’s heritage and engineering prowess. The extensive customisation options allow buyers to tailor the motorcycle to their preferences, potentially increasing its long-term value and satisfaction.
