2024 BMW R 18 — Top Speed 180 km/h (112 mph)

Is the 2024 BMW R 18 a good buy? Quick answer

The 2024 BMW R 18 has a listed top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph) with 91 hp, 158 Nm torque, 1000cc+ engine, 345 kg curb weight. It sits in the Chopper / Cruiser segment and is better matched to experienced sport riders than absolute beginners. Compare rivals side-by-side using the tools on this page.

Feature Value
Brand BMW
Model BMW R 18
Engine size Above 1000cc
Power 91 hp
Torque 158 Nm
Cylinder / Valve Double Cylinder, 8 valves
Weight 345 kg (761 lb)
Front Brake Twin disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed calipers
Rear Brake Single disc brake, diameter 300 mm, four-piston fixed caliper
Seat Height 69 cm (27.2 in)
Front Tyre 120/70 R 19
Rear Tyre 180/65 B16
Cooling Air Cooled
Front Suspension Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension Steel swingarm with central shock strut
Motorcycle Type Chopper / Cruiser
Top Speed 180 km/h (112 mph)
Fuel Capacity 16 L (4.2 US gal)
Fuel Consumption 5.6 L/100 km (42 mpg US)
Prevalence of Service Network
Service Quality
Spare Parts Availability
Price $14,995
For Other Motorcycle Price Lists Click for BMW Price List

Spec-based reading of the BMW R 18 as a Chopper / Cruiser: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.

Pros

  • Approachable seat height (~690 mm / 27.2 in)

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight (~345 kg / 761 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care

Who is it for?

Best suited for shorter or mid-height riders, riders who prefer relaxed cruiser ergonomics.

Who is it not for?

Less ideal for brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.

Commuting / city use

As a cruiser, relaxed ergonomics suit low-stress riding; tight traffic may need more room.

Highway / longer rides

Highway cruising comfort is typically stronger than sharp sport handling.

Good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 18 a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Seat height & rider fit

Seat height is about 690 mm (27.2 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.

Fuel economy & range

Listed fuel use is about 5.6 L/100 km (~42 mpg US). With a ~16 L tank, theoretical range is around 286 km (real-world range varies).

Two-up riding

Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the BMW R 18?

Our specification data lists 180 km/h (112 mph) for the BMW R 18.

How much horsepower does the BMW R 18 have?

Listed power is 91 hp.

How much torque does the BMW R 18 have?

Listed torque is 158 Nm.

What is the engine size of the BMW R 18?

Engine displacement is listed as above 1000 cc.

How much does the BMW R 18 weigh?

Curb weight is listed at about 345 kg (761 lb).

What is the seat height of the BMW R 18?

Seat height is about 690 mm (27.2 in).

What is the fuel economy of the BMW R 18?

Listed consumption is about 5.6 L/100 km (about 42 mpg US).

What is the fuel range of the BMW R 18?

Theoretical range is around 286 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.

Is the BMW R 18 liquid cooled?

It is listed as air-cooled.

How many cylinders does the BMW R 18 have?

It is listed as a 2-cylinder engine.

Is the BMW R 18 good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the BMW R 18 a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Is the BMW R 18 good for commuting?

The BMW R 18 can be used for commuting, although its size, weight and riding position should be considered for frequent urban use.

Is the BMW R 18 good for highway riding?

With a listed top speed of 180 km/h, the BMW R 18 has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.

Is the BMW R 18 suitable for short riders?

Seat height is about 690 mm (27.2 in), which is relatively approachable for shorter riders. Still try before you buy.

Is the BMW R 18 A2 licence friendly?

A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.

What are the pros of the BMW R 18?

Approachable seat height (~690 mm / 27.2 in).

What are the cons of the BMW R 18?

Heavy curb weight (~345 kg / 761 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care.

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