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?
BMW R 18 Transcontinental: Tech, Specs and Performance
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.
BMW R 18 Transcontinental: Design and Old-School Aesthetics
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.
BMW R 18 Transcontinental: Comfort and Convenience
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.
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.
The BMW R 18 Transcontinental price in India starts at INR 32.50 lakhs.