When you think of buying a powerful and reliable bike for traveling across long distances, race-track-centered BMW bikes might not be the first choice that crosses your mind. However, with the BMW R 18 Transcontinental, you can enjoy the best in German engineering and tech while comfortably adventuring the countryside.
The Transcontinental was built to travel for long durations, and this muscular motorcycle delivers both a powerful performance and a luxurious experience. So, how does this American touring bike fare on Indian roads?
Performance and Engine Specifications
The R 18 Transcontinental is powered by a 1,802-cc twin-cylinder, four-stroke Big Boxer engine and has a 24-liter fuel tank, claiming a mileage of 17.24 kmpl. It weighs 427 kg and can carry a weight of up to 203 kg. It produces a maximum torque of 158 Nm at 3,000 rpm.
In some way, the Transcontinental is revolutionary. What other manufacturer would have integrated an old-school cruiser with the latest riding technology? The Transcontinental comes with Dynamic Cruise Control, ABS, LED-lighting, heated grips and seats, and six Marshall speakers.
You can also opt for more features such as Hill Start Control, central locking, reverse assist, a security system, adaptive headlights and upgraded speakers. If you’re a tech-savvy rider, you’re in luck!
The tank has a waterproof slot that neatly fits and charges your smartphone. You can connect your phone to your bike with the BMW Ride Connected App and enjoy nifty features like navigation, replying to messages, and listening to music.
Design and Styling
This unique and eye-catching motorcycle is one of the top 5 heaviest bikes in India. It has managed to evoke the vintage and retro feel of cruiser bikes and infuse it with the unique BMW design philosophy. This machine commands a strong street presence; wherever you go, people are bound to look.
The part analog, part digital cockpit exudes pure luxury and class. Four analog displays are mounted alongside a large, full-color TFT screen. They are fitted onto a soft material, mimicking the appearance of a car’s dashboard.
Comfort and Touring Features
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental provides a comfortable riding experience. The bike is heavy, so you might initially struggle with its heft at slow speeds or in heavy traffic. On open stretches, it glides beautifully, and soon you’ll be able to maneuver it with ease.
Unlike other cruisers, the R 18 Transcontinental features an upright sitting position that is highly ergonomic and comfortable for longer durations. The riding triangle provides natural access to the handlebars, but the large floorboards and big cylinders can make the area around your feet feel cramped.
The seats are padded with in-built heating and adequate cushioning. The suspension is firmer than usual and deals with bad roads quite well. The pillion seat is comfortable as well, complete with footboards and armrests, as well as passenger controls for the seat heating system.
At moderate to high speeds, the windscreen offers complete protection from rain and wind. The height of the windscreen may pose a problem for tall riders: it impedes their direct line of vision. While many BMW bikes have electronic height adjustable windscreens, this one doesn’t. However, you can easily swap out the windscreen for a smaller one at an authorized BMW service centre.
Suspension and Braking
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental comes with a telescopic fork at the front and a fully adjustable monoshock at the rear, providing a smooth ride over rough patches. The bike is fitted with dual-disc brakes at the front and a single disc at the rear, offering excellent stopping power.
Storage and Accessories
For long-distance touring, the bike comes equipped with spacious panniers that offer ample storage space, along with an optional top case for extra room. The panniers are integrated beautifully into the bike’s design, maintaining the sleek aesthetic while adding practicality.
BMW also offers an extensive range of accessories, from additional storage options to audio systems and more, allowing you to customize the bike according to your touring needs.
BMW R 18 Transcontinental: The Choice For Adventure
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental exudes luxury, grandeur, and old-school class. It is strong and powerful, yet comfortable and nimble. Its incredible music system and storage space make it the perfect road companion for short trips and longer rides. It comes in 5 unique and eye-catching colors: mineral white metallic, gravity blue metallic, black storm metallic, galaxy dust metallic, and Manhattan metallic matte.
Riding Dynamics: Cruiser Meets Tourer
The R 18 Transcontinental is designed to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility or handling. Despite its size and weight, the bike handles remarkably well, especially for a large cruiser.
- Suspension: BMW has equipped the bike with a sophisticated suspension system. The front suspension features a 49mm telescopic fork, while the rear has a cantilever suspension strut with travel-dependent damping. This setup ensures that the bike remains planted and stable, even when fully loaded with luggage.
- Braking: The braking system is equally impressive, with twin disc brakes up front and a single disc at the rear. BMW’s integral ABS ensures that braking is smooth and controlled, even in emergency situations.
- Riding Modes: The R 18 Transcontinental offers three riding modes – Rain, Roll, and Rock. Each mode adjusts the throttle response and traction control to suit different riding conditions. ‘Rain’ offers a softer throttle response for wet conditions, while ‘Roll’ is your standard cruising mode. ‘Rock’ is for those times when you want to experience the bike’s full power and performance.
BMW R 18 Transcontinental price in India:
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental price in India starts at ₹32,50,000.
Why the BMW R 18 Transcontinental Stands Out
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental is not just another cruiser; it’s a statement of luxury, performance, and craftsmanship. Here’s why it stands out in the competitive cruiser and touring market:
- Heritage Meets Innovation: The bike’s design pays homage to BMW’s heritage, but it’s packed with modern technology. From the massive boxer engine to the state-of-the-art infotainment system, it bridges the gap between the past and the future.
- Luxury Touring Features: Whether it’s the heated seats, premium audio system, or the customizable riding modes, BMW has ensured that the R 18 Transcontinental is equipped with everything a touring rider could want.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Long-distance rides can be grueling, but the R 18 Transcontinental ensures that both the rider and the pillion are comfortable, even after hours on the road.
Conclusion:
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental is a perfect blend of vintage design, modern technology, and luxury touring capabilities. Whether you’re an experienced long-distance rider or someone looking to invest in a premium cruiser, this bike promises an unparalleled riding experience. With its powerful boxer engine, comfortable ergonomics, and cutting-edge features, the R 18 Transcontinental truly stands out as one of the best grand cruisers on the market.
For those who appreciate the finer things in motorcycling, the BMW R 18 Transcontinental is not just a motorcycle—it’s a journey. A journey that starts with turning the key and ends wherever the road takes you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the price of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental in India?
The starting price of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental is around ₹32,50,000 (ex-showroom). However, the final price may vary based on customizations and additional accessories.
What is the engine capacity of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental?
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental is powered by an 1802cc air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine, producing 91 hp and 158 Nm of torque.
Is the BMW R 18 Transcontinental suitable for long-distance touring?
Yes, the bike is designed specifically for long-distance touring, with features like a large fuel tank, comfortable seating, ample storage, and advanced technology for navigation and safety.
What are the safety features of the BMW R 18 Transcontinental?
Key safety features include Dynamic Cruise Control, Traction Control, ABS, Hill Start Control, and Automatic Stability Control.
How much storage does the BMW R 18 Transcontinental offer?
The bike comes with spacious panniers and an optional top case, providing ample storage for long-distance travel.
