I’ve had my r18 first edition for about 4 months here in Alaska. I love it! I did swap the seat out to a Corbin and spent some time adjusting the rear shock. 6000 miles later and I love it! My poor GSA is not getting used as much. My Harley friends don’t know what to make of it. It truly is a rolling work of art

@deandesrosiers6857

Жыл бұрын

Best line ever, "My Harley friends don’t know what to make of it." One of my HD buddies almost cried, and one other is in denial.

@markcassidy7442

Жыл бұрын

How does the Corbin seat on it?

@keithhealey6989

Күн бұрын

Brought a first edition very low miles after passing my test and after about 500miles fell in love with the bike.❤

Best review I've seen on it. I'm looking to get one next. Bikes have become way tooooo sterile to me. My main ride now is a 2017 Indian and I can't wait to get my Evo back on the road so I can actually FEEL the bike I'm riding again. The Indian will always be great for some longer trips but it too sterile for a daily. As soon as I heard people complaining that the r18 wasn't smooth enough or vibrated and moved too much I knew I had to get one. Thanks for the great review.

A great honest accurate review 👍 I have an R18 and the more I ride it the more I want to ride it . What an amazing fun bike

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Good choice!

Ive had mine for a month now - I just love the thing. The reviews are mixed here on Utbe but that's to be expected. I also have a CMX1100 Honda (Rebel), it is much sharper and a world lighter and feels quicker but I am picking the R18 to ride and its always an experience, is not a slouch and brilliant to chug along on. The real estate view looking down whilst riding is pure art in motion with the orchestra of mechanical sounds a great accompanying score. - Good review BTW.

As an owner of a Classic, I agree about it takes time to learn this machina. Been riding over 50 years/900k miles and many brands dirt street, this distills what real riding is about, all are many flavors but "Sable" gets it right. A test ride will not be effective in this respect, for a seasoned rider of short or long distance it works. Agree the seat sucks, going to contact Corbin and go from there. Knock me up if you're interested.

I'm glad it goes as well as it looks. It will be interesting to see what they do with later editions.

Great review Roothy. Thoroughly enjoyed the honest account not too mention the great scenery (lucky bugger). Love to see more bike reviews on your channel.

Roothy I bought my R18 at launch down here in central Victoria. I didn’t test ride one beforehand, had never owned a cruiser, but mate what a bike! I rode down the road with great trepidation for about 1km, then just kept smiling saying “Wow…wow…wow!” I now have close to 4,000km on mine even with our constant COVID lockdowns & I love it more each time I start it up. Seat is firm for sure, suspension is sometimes harsh, but apart from these minor bugs, I have not regretted buying mine one bit! I have a 1980 R100s in the shed as well as a 2003 R1150R Rockster. I had the first S1000RR, followed but the S1000R. Time to mellow like a fine red wine & enjoy the scenery. But when I want that rush, that torquey engine does the trick! Ps. Some years back I met your mate Groff actually at the launch of the S1000RR! On occasion I’ll see him around central Victoria & have a chat. I miss the old MT days. Sad it had to end. Cheers mate. 😎👍🏼

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Andrew - great feedback, and if you see Roff, don't buy him any wine - he's had enough already! I miss Trader too - bugger covid. Catch up sometime mate.

Read your column and tests in Two Wheels for more years than either of us want to admit to. Nice to see Hilda? in her natural environment. Miss your bike stuff mate, hope to see more of it.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jeeves, still riding Hilda after all these years - and thinking about a new R18, just always shy on buying new bikes....

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. I plan on doing more bikes just fit the fun of it. 🍺🍺

I had a demo one of these for 4 hours and it was amazing.

Nice review Roothy! Your reviews in Two Wheels helped get me into bikes, I've ridden for 35 years now. Had an R1200R, but reliability issues put me off. This thing looks like a beast!

Well done on the review, mate. I agree whole heartedly, people test riding this motorcycle most likely would see past it but once you spend some time with it, it puts a smile on the face like nothing else. I used to ride a Harley VROD and bought the First Edition in Sydney, Australia a few months back and I’m in love with it. I am, however, yet to see another person riding one. The R18 probably may not sell in huge numbers but for the owners of this beautifully crafted and well thought of machine, it’s well worth holding on to. Great job again, mate!!

Very solid assessment. In 40 years of riding, I have owned and ridden many types and styles. This Boxer grows on you. It has character, and the machining of BMW and only the Germans can produce. I bought the TC, and with each ride, I want to ride it more. Add the tech and it's untouchable by competitors. ut, living in North America, I accept the HD culture here and appreciate it.

While I have a beloved (modern) Indian Chief, my wife has been shopping for her a new bike for a while. She had looked at the Harley Sportster S, but a bit too 'cruiser' and not enough 'tourer'. She looked, and had set her sights on a new Indian Scout...and one evening we got to talking about how 'most companies have dropped their 1000+ cc 'classic touring' bikes from their lineups (showing her that Honda only really had one model remaining, Yamaha had one model, etc.)...and I she asked 'does any of the older manufacturers still produce bikes?' I thought for a moment, names like Triumph, Norton...and thought 'you know, I don't know if BMW still makes the classic R-type boxers'...she had no clue what I was referring to...so I opened their website, and there was the R-18. I quickly checked the specs, as she's murmuring 'go back, GO BACK!...' She stares at it, asks 'what options and colors do they have?' We go through their 'build-a-bike' utility...set it up like she really liked...I explain to her the 'different ride a boxer engine causes'...acceleration torque, wide heads, heat, etc., she merely asks 'how much is it, as configured?' I respond, 'about the cost of a well-equipped Indian Scout or Chief...at MSRP'. We're going for her to take a test-ride this coming weekend...but yeah, it REALLY caught her attention...and is very aesthetically pleasing to most who like 'classic touring' bikes...where a windshield and bags are all you want for equipment...to us, it's about that 200-500 miles in a day touring ride quality...personally, if I wanted 'rock-hard response', I'd look at a Hayabusa or Indian FTR or Harley Pan American...but don't expect to walk correctly (or without pain) after 100-miles on ANY of those, either!

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

I reckon long day comfort might be the only issue but with new seats and suspension in the pipeline it'll be a doddle. The R18 is so unique it's, well, unique - and totally BMW. Love to know how she goes! Thanks Skeeter!

Best review I've seen so far. Good work mate.

Nice review John. The bike suits you well 👌

Yep. After 45 years riding. I bought one. Gorgeous.

Proper review, proper test by proper biker all other 2 wheel users will understand

Great review. So much information from someone who really knows what they are talking about. I've ordered my R18! I live in Japan. Can't wait for it to come. Thanks!

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, nice to own a bike that goes as good as it looks - sheer joy!

I don’t ride, but I admire it. Always interesting when you’re on review. Enjoy your work, you convinced me on the mahindra and now I see them popping up everywhere. Nice to follow a blokes life I’d like to live! 🍻

One reviewer scraped the pegs several times during his ride.That, and the lack of a fuel gauge rule it out for me.

I have one, very pleased with it. Rear shock is a bit savage though and the back Bridgestone is starting to square off at 1200 miles😬. You are absolutely right about the test ride. Boxer engines take a bit of getting used to, but this one is a jem! Not to refined, but lots of character where you need it. Best of all, loads of tyre shredding GRUNT! 🤪

Excellent review buddy! You talk a lot of sense (which is a refreshing change! haha) 👍🏼

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. The wife may disagree 👍

Nice review I've missed your bike reviews. I am pretty sure I bought that 1987 Two Wheels with the BMW abs test. I've had a couple of airhead boxers over the years would love another one one day.

G'day Roothy. Mate appreciate the four wheel drive stuff, but love the bike reviews. Miss you and Spanner and the gang from Motorcycle Trader. Ohhh yeah, the bike. Looks cool. It would make a great stable mate to the Yammie MT01 that I've owned since new in 05. Both big twins, both with heaps of character and attitude.

@leonelhouston8217

3 жыл бұрын

@Desmond Brennan yea, I've been watching on Flixzone for months myself :D

Good to see you return to your roots occasionally Roothy. Still miss your reports from back in the day. I've got zero interest in a cruiser. But this is the best review I've watched of the R18. Just plain real world usage talk. Take note juniors.

100%. Epic location, bike and beard John Rooth!

What a good review! Really enjoyed it.

Your exactly right about it grows on you. I rode it and was disappointed. Then I was at my dealer and they sold a first edition to me for 13k. I said screw it. Best decision made. I love the bike now.

Added a Corbin touring seat and the lady loves it, went from an hour to an all day rider.

Enjoyed the honest and fair review

A hankie on a mud guard, that made me smile. Great review.

Looks great, bloody good review too mate.

Best review I have ever seen. Weldone!

Nice addition in my garage to my Victory Cross Country.

Lovely!👍

Perfectly said, I couldn’t agree more. It grew on me too. 👍🏼👊🏼

I had a 93 R1100 GS/PD, I loved it a lot

Fun review.

You’ve just made me feel good about the R18. I’ve almost done a deal on one , not had a ride yet , that comes on Monday , but I’m sure going to be positive about the test ride and I do agree with you about having to learn how to ride a boxer had my first one in 1962 and been on them ever since. Thanks for the review,

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

I think as an old Boxer nut you'll love the new one - same quality build as always. Not as practical tho, no centrestand or tool box, let me know how you go!

@deandesrosiers6857

Жыл бұрын

Buy it, I just bought the TC and it's bomber!

Enjoyed watching that. Awesome bike the R-18.

Wow that's quite an endorsement, just looking at this now , great review

What a limey! I love it and you.. rock on brother!

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

10 ай бұрын

Limey???? Pure Aussie convict blood mate!!!

Well thanks for the reply , I brought the bike home yesterday, a R 18 Custom. It was 38 miles to collect from the dealers in Chester U.K., funny though it was 110 smiles for the return journey 😂 loved it , just watched your video again , love your enthusiasm, oh and I’ve subscribed, for got to do it last time. Cheers Graham L , ps at 79 this could be my last bike. ( for awhile) 😂

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Go hard Graham! 79 eh? You sir are an inspiration - I hope I still need that much horsepower in another ten!! cheers mate.

@gl2856

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reply John , update for you , Sunday was my first run out from home so I did a route I’ve done a thousand times before into the mountains of North Wales and over to the coast of Barmouth, I was not at all disappointed, I’d heard tell of grounding the foot pegs and not enough Bhp, needs better suspension, well I didn’t have those problems. But after 220 smiles my butt was really hurting , but the enjoyment I had on this bike compensated for that , I hope the seat gets better or I may have to consider the taller seat, I agree with all you said about the bike , stopped at a friends on the way back , started telling him about the bike, he stopped me and said he’d heard all this before , you sound just like that guy on KZread you told me to watch. Ha ha that was you John , we had a good laugh about it. Seriously though your enthusiasm rubbed off on me. Another couple of hundred miles and I’ll have gotten more used to it. Thanks a lot, Graham. ps. Have you tried the taller seat. ?

I have two of them on for my son and one for me and sometime we ride together it is a lovely motorbike thanks for your great content have a nice ride and see you in your next video.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

Ай бұрын

Yep, it's a lifetime bike like most BMWs eh.

Now some time has passed since launch I think you either like it or you don’t. It’s not a HD, if you want a Harley buy one. I’ve had my R18 just over a year and I really like it. It has quirks, but that’s fine by me. I’ve owned a few Harleys over the years and I like them too. It’s a personal choice.

Where did you film this video? That place is very beautiful.

The ride looks like Tassie. Got my 18 a couple of weeks ago and have been loving it everyday.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

Жыл бұрын

Nah, right here in Godsown Queelsland - know that 'cos it's a lot wamer - love Tassie!

Very informative

Good Review 🍺

Fantastic 👍🏻👊🏻

I remember your reviews and column in Two Wheels well from when I started out in the late 80s, and I think a Two Wheels Touring Guide. I also seem to remember a bit of to and fro between you and Geoff Hall about HD vs BMW...

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Sounds right. I’ve got Bmw’s too but Geoff never liked anything else!!

I've had 3 air heads and 2 oil heads, but haven't had a big bike for 8 years. I'm 77 and fit and I'm considering a R18 Classic. I'm just wondering about the 800 lb weight, but the reverse is easing some of that question.

Hey Roothy can you give the Triumph Rocket 3 GT 2021 a test. Will be an interesting test to compare the R18 against. I owned a BMW K1300R what a beautiful bike BMW make

Have you tried the Rocket lll ?

Nice bike there Roothy, you trying to stretch out the 3 weeks a bit or what? Not sure what the target market is here though, it's slightly Harley-esque... Wish I had a reverse on my Street Glide!

I remember meeting John, Nicko,Flash and Loose Bruce at the Tassie Easter Epic in the 90s. How is old Loose Bruce going ?

Don't you get tired keeping legs at one position? Because of protruding engine on both sides prevent stretching legs. Also in case you drop the bike, the protruding portion of the engine could be seriously damage. I love the bike and BMW makes great products. But i have these concerns. What are your thoughts?

yeah man, i took 2 test rides before i did the deal on an R18 TC but was still not sure, took a risk cos she was beautiful. 3 weeks and 1300 miles in, I 100% get it and we are bonded. i just love this bike like no other I have owned. excellent, acccurate review Brother

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

9 ай бұрын

Right on! Thanks mate - appreciate that!

great review roothy, been thinking it would be a nice addition beside my triumph

@lawdayl

3 жыл бұрын

I've been thinking along same lines, just gotta convince the banker lol...

@andrewd7586

2 жыл бұрын

It looks great beside a Triumph! Well any bike for that matter!😎👍🏼

What an eyesaw..! 2 wheeled VW...!! May make a good trike...

I agree it does take time to test ride the R18 is not like some other bike you test ride for half an hour. The R18 is more you ride it you start loving it and I’m getting a R18B after spending a weekend with the bike.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Yep, I'm back for more too -0 hoping to borrow one for a couple of weeks, which'll mean buying one I'd reckon...

@fbomb.garage316

9 ай бұрын

Same. A one hour ride was nice but left me with some questions/concerns. After having a demo bike for the weekend I can't give it back.

솔직한 의견 부탁드립니다 r18추천하세요??

yeah nah... nice to see ya back on two wheels but mate

I've had the pleasure of test riding it and I love it, though the biggest let down is the lack of customisation from the factory compared to getting a GS.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Wait for it!! BM in the USA has heaps already - just takes time.

@AndyBondo

2 жыл бұрын

Not true I own one

Probably the best BMW since the R90S

Impossible to forward foot pegs and controls for more comfort in long trips... that's what all about in a cruiser!!

Great review, the learning curve is steep for a Boxer engine. I have taken a Trans Continental for a test ride and was left wondering if I enjoyed it or not. I'm presently on a 2018 GTL with singular foot placement. On the Trans Continental, I do not like the rear brake lever location. I struggle with turning my ankle inward to locate the lever. I really want to like the bike because of its exclusivity, but the ergonomics are not working out for me. If it does not work out, I'll get the Grand America 😊

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

Жыл бұрын

Yep I get that - I loved almost everything about the R18 but my old legs, which cope OK with my GS and old R's, feel locked in by the bigger pots here. Ergo's are vital for real riders who do distance.

Exhaust is a turn off for me.... u right i can't effort it though

Wicked.

Bize göre yolun tersinden gidiyorsunuz.

John Rooth, greatest living Australian.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Hahaha - don't tell the Handbrake, she might have an oppinion on that!!!

Thanks for posting a little confused don't know if it's supposed to be long distance tour no fairing no windshield no bags it's not a bagger but if BMW makes it it probably works

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

Жыл бұрын

That's possibly the best wrap up of the whole R18 that I've heard!! It is confused, but the accessorires and new models are taking it along other lines now too. Cheers

No one can explain a Boxer engine ... As simple as you did there

I wonder if looking at 3:04 if the cardan shaft is already rusty at a new bike 🤔

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

It does look discoloured but it wasn't rust. Bike was straight out of the showroom!

@markwilliamson2795

2 жыл бұрын

The driveshaft is not chrome it's nickel little different color than chrome because of the high copper content has a silvery golden tint to it...with a bit of mud here and there...

I would like to se a bigger tank on it ..that would make it even more nice ..

had to activate English subtitles for this

Brill video dude brill bike

I bought the R1100R you road tested in 1995. The one with the red seat. I only found out after I saw the photos of you pulling wheelies on it came out in the mag. The clutch wasn't meant for that kind of abuse

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Ooops. Hope it went well fir you!!

@theairstig9164

3 жыл бұрын

@@JOHNROOTHROOTHY I replaced the clutch after 60,000kms then set fire to the left pannier by sliding it down a racetrack. I sold it not long after because I didn’t need it and the shed was a bit full. But I did learn a lot about fixing BMWs plus their design flaws. I never looked at motorcycles in the same light again

Do you think it's better than Hilda, or not? Speaking of, does Hilda still exist?

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Of course it's faster, powerful, has brakes, etc etc - but I've had Hilda 48 years, shared heaps with her and she still lights fires when I screw the throttle so it's a no choice choice - I wouldn't swap the old girl for a new one. I think... no one's offered....

@harrothepilot

2 жыл бұрын

@@JOHNROOTHROOTHY Haha, i remember her from the plethora of TW, BA and maybe some other magazines. She's a family member.

Fuck me dead that is the most hidious exhaust I have ever seen haha

take the hero knobs off, take the mirrors off, change the blinkers and the cut the rear guard, no chrome, wave disc, single seat, it might look better .🏴‍☠️🛠

The R18 Concept looked promising, but the production bike just looks like BMW accountants cut all the good stuff out. Big cylinders and no leg room make it a fail if you are tall

God damn that bimmer looks the business..

Does it run on innertubes? if so, it shouldn't at that price. No rev counter? I love the exhausts. The 1900 engine must be brilliant to use. All that torque. I used to love the torque on my R1100GS. What must the 1900 feel like? Excellent video which would have been better without the distracting background music.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

Great question - I don't know. If anyone finds out can they let us all know? There are tubeless spoked wheels around but not sure at all - thanks.

@markwilliamson2795

2 жыл бұрын

@@JOHNROOTHROOTHY Tubeless front and rear tires....digital tachometer in small readout area...

@anthonycanalese2142

Жыл бұрын

Tubed radial ply front tyre. Tubed bias ply rear tyre. 1802 cc engine

Would prefer no music & hear engine instead

Certainly a beautiful work of art bike…..BUT, I couldn’t get my head around not having a fuel gauge…. What’s that about? I didn’t buy one for that reason…. Same as buying an electric car and having “range anxiety”.

@jfro5867

Жыл бұрын

Set the trip meter when you fill up 🤷‍♂. Easy.

Best bike I have ever owned 😀👍🍺

Hanky on the mudguard. Haha!

After hiring one in Europe it was obviously beautifully made. And it's cornering is excellent but the lean angle stops you taking advantage of it. Monster torque - I don't think so. Way too heavy to exploit it and too narrow a band. 2500 to 3500 before the vibration is too intrusive. Even after days of riding it wasn't a patch on a Guzzi I owned or the Triumph 1700 Thunderbird. You would have to start out a BMW boxer fan. By aiming at Harley - they aimed too low.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

I pretty much agree with everything you've said here Leigh and having ridden a Rocket 3 GT last month, torque has been redefined for me too! Beautiful bit of machinery and for an old BM nut like me I'd consider one - but not really a new bike sort of bloke.

@leighmcqueeney9848

2 жыл бұрын

@@JOHNROOTHROOTHY thanks for your reply John. Always love your 4x4 stuff too. I have a 3.5 Honda Accord Turbo that pumps out an almost undrivable 1040 NM. So that raises the torque bar for me, a lot!

Love the Bike, hate the rear fender.

Actually, thats not bad at all. not my usual taste but............ Im not a sit up and beg kinda rider, but th elines look good. The clean engine. Id be looking at styling ways to clean up the lines and fill in all the places where dirt can collect and that are hard to clean. Maybe an abbreviated fairing/cowl to infill everything around the head light. The on=lder nike does this better - guards, headlight mounts etc

Long live the king Harley Davidson

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

2 жыл бұрын

I've still got my 1984 Softail - and it still goes hard. But the new ones are computerised rubbish like everything else.

It is a nice bike but, IMHO, it would look better if it was fitted with an 800cc boxer engine. Performance would still be more than adequate given that it is a cruiser. Having said all that, I have not seen one yet as my nearest BMW dealer is almost 250 miles away and they have not had any in so far.

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

Not sure on that - this motor is dazzling, and there's nothing like cubes to make lazy power. 800cc was the perfect size for the old R's but this new motor works.

👍

As I like to say...those ain't fishtails there the whole fish!

Everything is cool with the looks but the ride leaves a lot to be desired leg position 100% fail.....

@JOHNROOTHROOTHY

3 жыл бұрын

It’s a personal thing - I found it fine. But I’ve got short legs.

What's an outlaw bike? BMW did beat Harley Davidson in their own deepest segment ,while Milwaukee was wasting effort and time with the LiveWire....A bike,nobody ever really wanted. Triumph did it the same way.Their "Bonneville Bobber"is also a big success.

I'd park one next to my 75/6 .

epic