Motorcycle | BMW R18B and Transcontinental 2022: American behemoths

(Denver, Colorado) Riding American style on touring mounts linked to the custom genre, that means taking the time to absorb the landscape which passes by with the rhythm of a large twin cylinder in the background. By adapting its big R18 for long journeys, BMW is offering a German version of this American tradition.

For the great landscapes of America

Of all the forms motorcycle tourism can take, one of the most popular – in America – comes from the custom world, specifically Harley-Davidson. To offer a suitable mount for long journeys, the Milwaukee brand has equipped and improved the comfort of its popular touring motorcycles to make them real travelers. The famous Electra Glide and its variants are the result of exercise and represent extremely pleasant touring tools, especially in the vast spaces of North America. Taken over by many manufacturers over the years, the formula is now borrowed by BMW with the R18B and R18 Transcontinental 2022.

Me too !

We do not deny absolutely, at BMW, the desire to offer a touring frame based on the American formula: the goal of the Munich manufacturer is to gain a small share of this market where it was absent until now, no more. no less. This motivation explains why, when observing the novelties, we constantly have the impression of recognizing shapes and proportions seen on other motorcycles of the genre. The feeling remains present once in the saddle, since, from their relaxed ergonomics to their immense mass through the type of equipment they offer, the R18B and Transcontinental are literally German in the American style.

Some distinctions

The new “behemians” are not for all that exact copies of the corresponding products at Harley-Davidson and are distinguished above all by their unique twin cylinder. Introduced a year ago on the original R18, the huge Big Boxer not only offers very special sonic and tactile characteristics, but it is also a magnificent mechanical sculpture. Another aspect of the new R18B / T that sets them apart is their high level of technology. For example, their equipment list includes radar-controlled cruise control that adapts to the pace of traffic, a high-performance audio system designed in collaboration with Marshall, and more.

One base, two variants

Two variants of this R18 adapted for tourism are offered: the B, for Bagger, and the luxurious Transcontinental. In custom lingo, a “bagger” is a stripped-down and lowered touring model. Fortunately, BMW did not take the exercise too far and only removed from the Transcontinental its central case and some equipment to create the R18B. A lower saddle and shorter windshield on the B are the other major differences. The R18B therefore keeping the suspensions of the Transcontinental, it really wants to be able to travel, which distinguishes it from several “baggers” so low that they become harsh on an imperfect road.

Chasing the horizon

Although the two variants are technically very similar, when it comes to travel rather than long rides, the R18 Transcontinental easily becomes the favorite. Offering a passenger backrest, more storage space, more equipment, better protection against the elements and more comfort thanks to a better padded saddle, she deserves the title of Horizon Hunter. As for the R18B, if it lags a little behind the Transcontinental in this regard, it remains better suited to long journeys than the average “bagger”. This skill should come as no surprise to anyone, since BMW builds some of the best female travelers on the market.

Weightlifters wanted …

The qualities of the R18B and R18 Trancontinental on the road are numerous. They range from unperturbed stability to light steering, not to mention flexible mechanics that are pleasant to the senses and a high-performance braking system, among others. But during every moment of their control, especially when it comes to slow and tight maneuvers, their extraordinarily high mass remains in the foreground. All similar motorcycles are heavy, but these deserve a trophy, especially the Trancontinental. This is a characteristic that a pilot can handle very well, but only if their level of experience is high and their physical strength is adequate.

Conclusion

Traveling American style ultimately means riding a stable but heavy juggernaut to the rhythm of an engine pleasing to the senses, albeit relatively inefficient. The experience is definitely not appealing to all motorcyclists, but for many it is the most delightful way to rack up miles. This is the group for the R18B and, in the case of serious travelers, the R18 Transcontinental. They do not in any way reinvent the classes they come to join, but represent interesting and completely legitimate additions to their respective category. They exist for those who love this type of motorcycle, but would prefer BMW to Harley-Davidson or Indian.

Bertrand Gahel is the author of Motorcycle guide.

Transportation and accommodation costs paid by BMW.