BMW R 18 100 Years 2023 — Specifications

BMW was born in 1916. However, it was a little later that the motorcycle adventure began. In 1923, the first model of the Motorrad branch was born. It was called the R32, had a 500 cm3 displacement, and already contained the genes of a technical scheme still valid today.

2023 marks the centenary of the Munich motorcycle. For the occasion, two models from the Heritage range will celebrate the festivities - the NineT and the R18. The Boxer engine is the star; the R18 100 Years edition does not hesitate to showcase it and itself.

For those who are not familiar with BMW’s “Option 719”, this is an excellent opportunity to discover this customization department. This large custom gains a whole series of chrome parts: the foot controls, brake calipers, front engine cover, valve covers, mirrors, handlebar ends, master brake cylinders, trim on the intake manifolds, and handlebar risers. A two-tone, well-padded seat tastefully completes the style.

Being a centenary recipient requires a certain majesty. With bling for the R18! The German stylists have concocted a robe where the tank cheeks are coated in chrome while its back is plunged into black. Perfectly evident under the filler cap, a “100 Years” badge with the serial number ennobles the production. Some touches of “Avus Black” paint cover the engine. A set of white stripes, faithful to the Bohemian image, runs the machine from end to end, playing on their fineness on the fenders and the tank.

Akrapovic exhausts are an option. A pity! They allow a more gravelly sound and also clear the view of the driveshaft. Let’s recall that the R18 range is the only one from the manufacturer to expose its transmission, allowing appreciation of the shaft and its gears. The finish is pushed to include an end piece on the muffler in the same shape as the BMW logo.

That’s because there’s some breath to pass. The Bavarian customs are powered by the largest twin in the history of the manufacturer. A 1802 cm3 block, as large as the mechanics of Harley-Davidson or Indian. The right hand commands 91 horsepower; and above all, more than 16 mkg of torque at only 3000 rpm. Accelerator commands are somewhat supervised. On board the R18, the electronics include 3 Riding Modes, an ASC anti-slip control, an MSR torque control, and a keyless start system. This anniversary version recovers the PRO finish. Specifically, this adds heated grips, electric reverse, adaptive cornering light, hill start assistant, an alarm, cruise control, and a keyless fuel cap.

The BMW R18 100 Years will be sold in limited numbers... and iconic. I was talking about the R32 of 1923 earlier…. It is precisely this number that has been retained for the distribution of this very distant descendant. Thus, 1923 copies at a fairly high price: 25 plates to affix to travel a piece of the history of the Bayerische Motoren Werke.

M.B - Photos manufacturer