- BMW R18 concept-based cruiser spied testing
- Was accompanied by a touring version with added accessories
- Will be powered by a 1,800cc boxer-twin motor
BMW Motorrad is expected to host a grand unveiling at the upcoming EICMA with four models reportedly on the cards. One of them is expected to be the R18 concept-based cruiser motorcycle which has now been spied testing in all its glory. On contrary to the previous spy shots which comprised of the bike half covered before loading on a truck, the motorcycle has now been sighted out on the open roads.
Alongside the cruiser, the spy pictures also comprise of a touring version with added accessories. Both bikes retain a design theme similar to the R18 concept with a low-slung profile, round headlamp, pulled-back handlebar, tear drop-shaped fuel tank, single-piece seat and chunky tyres. The touring model gets a few add-ons such as small auxiliary lights flanking the headlamp, a tall windscreen and large panniers on both sides.
These R18-based motorcycles will be powered by a 1,800cc, boxer-twin engine which will be the largest motor ever used by BMW on a production model. Despite sharing the same engine, the touring bike incorporates a pair of straight peashooter exhausts while the cruiser sports a distinctive-looking, contorted units with bulging end. Furthermore, the touring model apparently gets a fully-digital instrument cluster while the cruiser might get a semi-digital unit to maintain the retro theme.
With the EICMA show just two weeks away, we are certainly close to getting the full details of these motorcycles. Considering their styling and engine displacement, these BMWs will go up against the cruisers and touring models from Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles.
Image courtesy – Motociclismo
