- BMW R18 range includes five motorcycles
- Same engine but with tech updates and new cycle parts
- Likely to be launched in NZ in the next few months
BMW Motorrad have given their retro cruiser R18 line-up a list of subtle updates and new tech for 2025. The range includes the standard R18, R18 Classic, R18 Roctane, R18 Bagger and R18 Transcontinental.
All the models now comply with Euro 5+ norms while retaining the 91bhp output from the 1802cc transverse twin-cylinder engine. However, torque has gone up by a whole 5Nm taking the total output to 162.9Nm- 90 percent of which is offered below 4000rpm. The standard BMW R18 gets the most significant change with the rear wheel going from 16 to 18 inches. It is paired with a new wheel design that consists of seven double spokes. BMW is also offering the older 19/16-inch wheel combo as part of their options catalogue. Adding to this, the bike also gets redesigned fenders and recontoured side panels that look sharper. The Classic variant, however, now gets bigger 19-inch spoked wheel up front that replaces the 16-inch front. The rear continues with a 16-inch setup.
Then there is a new 10mm thicker seat padding with improved contours and new spring and damping rates for the rear suspension for better comfort levels. BMW has also redesigned the silencers, DRLs as standard and a USB-C charging port. Both models are offered with the optional Blacked Out variants that come with the engine, exhaust and some trims in black gloss and dark chrome. That said, these finishes are also available in Mineral Grey, Metallic Matt and Two-Tone Brooklyn Grey Metallic.
The BMW R18 Roctane that debuted in mid-2023 now gets a Two-Tone Dragonfire Red Metallic paint scheme and Dark Chrome pushrods, intake silencers and headlamp rings to add character. Meanwhile the Transcontinental and Bagger gets a new ‘favourites’ button on the bars which give access to features like heated grips without going through the instrument console menu.
Lastly, all BMW R18 models get access to a new optional comfort pack that opens features like hill start assist, lockable fuel filler caps, TPMS, heated grips or seat (depending on the model). We can expect the 2025 BMW R18 range to make its way to Australia and New Zealand by mid of this year.
